The elevated mist-net frame - Supporting Information: Appendices S1-S4

Summary 

Classic standard mist-netting limits sampling to understory birds flying <3 m above ground-level. Methodological innovations targeting higher strata birds (and bats) are important for ecological studies, particularly in tropical forests.
I present and evaluate a method of applying elevated mist-net frames (EMF) up to ~25-30 m. I designed detachable mobile alloy frames for standard-sized 3×6 m mist-nets, weighing ~11 kg including fittings, and suspended by 3-point cable-wire mounting. State-of-the-art archery and fishing gear are employed for securing anchor-lines, with hoisting applied by pulley, ropes and guys.
EMF is assembled and detached by 2-3 team members within 15-20 minutes, and up-down hoisting lasts 1-3 minutes. EMF excludes tree-climbing and arboreal platforms, through versatile manoeuvring in lightly-cluttered naturally open corridors. EMF costs are source and quantity dependent, and feasible to institutions and grant beneficiaries.
EMF is a workabl...