We used helicopter net-gunning to capture coyotes (Canis latrans) in an arid habitat where endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica) were present. In 25.1 hr of flight time over 6 days, we captured 10 coyotes of 22 (45%) pursued. Seven coyotes were captured through net-gunning from helicopters while 2 were captured in culverts (1 with chemical immobilization), and 1 was captured by noose after it ran into an aqueduct. Helicopter net-gunning successfully captured coyotes in open shrub and grassland habitat without capture risk to San Joaquin kit foxes.
|
