Participant Information Sheet

Before you take part, look through the project details before giving us your consent

Purpose of the study

This study aims to investigate which animals scavenge rat and mouse carcasses in residential gardens, and how quickly they do so. By identifying which species remove carcasses during the day and at night, we can better understand whether scavenging is a potential route of rodenticide exposure for hedgehogs and other wildlife.

Requirements

You are eligible to take part if you:

• live in or near Reading, Wokingham or Bracknell;

• have access to a private garden; and

• have a motion-activated trail camera or security camera, or be happy to borrow one from us. 

We will provide all other equipment.

What will you do?

Timing

• The study takes place during Summer 2026 and Winter 2026/2027.

• In each season, you will complete two recordings (four recordings in total).

Your recordings

For each recording, you will be assigned:

• A rat or mouse carcass.

• Whether to place it out during the day or night.

• A garden location. All participants will complete recordings in their back garden. If you have a suitable front garden and are happy to use it, one of your recordings may also be assigned there.

For example...

• Rat – Back garden – Day

• Mouse – Back garden – Night

For each recording

• Place the frozen rat or mouse carcass in your assigned location and record it using a motion-activated camera for up to 72 hours.

• If the carcass is removed before 72 hours, you can stop recording. If it is moved elsewhere in your garden, simply reposition the camera.

• Check the camera once a day to ensure it is still recording and the batteries have not run out.

After each recording

• Send us the video files.

• Complete a short online questionnaire.

• Repeat the process for your remaining recordings using the combinations assigned to you.

Your rights

• Right to withdraw from participating at any time if you change your mind.

• Your private information will be kept confidential and only accessed by the research team. 

• Your name and contact details will not appear in any reports or publications.

• Feel free to ask us any questions at any time. Please contact us using the details below.

Data management

What data we collect: We'll collect data from videos you send to us.

Personal information: We will collect your name, address and email during this study.

Storage and security: Data will be stored on password-protected university systems and/or encrypted drives, accessible only to members of the research team.

Risks to you

Participants should take care when handling carcasses and equipment to avoid minor cuts, scrapes, or contamination. Carcasses may carry bacteria, so participants are advised to wear gloves when handling them, avoid direct contact, and wash hands thoroughly afterwards. Carcasses should be securely positioned to reduce the need for repeated handling.

Decomposing carcasses may produce strong odours and could attract insects or scavenging wildlife. While there is no expected risk of injury from wildlife, participants should avoid direct interaction with animals and observe only via camera. Care should be taken when placing or checking equipment outdoors to avoid trips or falls.

There is a small risk of local nuisance (e.g., odour or attracting animals), so participants should position carcasses away from frequently used areas where possible.

As with all online projects, there is a very small risk of a data breach. However, all data will be stored securely and handled in line with the University of Reading’s data protection policies.

Any questions? Contact us at urbanscavengers@reading.ac.uk 

Purpose of the study

Rodents that have died from poisoning may indirectly poison animals that scavenge on their carcasses, especially if they die above ground. Little is known about hedgehog scavenging behaviour, despite hedgehogs being known to scavenge. We will explore scavenging behaviour in urban scavengers to better understand the potential risk of poisoning through scavenging, with a particular focus on hedgehogs.

Requirements

You may take part if you live within or near Reading or Bracknell and have access to a garden. 

All equipment, such as wildlife cameras and frozen rats and mice, can be delivered to your home.