recatch

Recatch refers to the act of capturing something that has previously escaped or been released. This term can be applied in various contexts, most notably in wildlife management and animal control.

In wildlife biology, recatch is a fundamental technique in mark-recapture studies. Researchers capture animals, mark them with identification (such as tags or bands), and then release them back into their environment. Subsequent captures of these marked animals provide data on population size, survival rates, and movement patterns. The success of a study hinges on the ability to recatch a sufficient number of marked individuals.

In animal control, recatch might involve capturing an animal that has previously been impounded or that has escaped from a secure facility. This can be a challenging situation, often requiring specialized equipment and expertise to safely and effectively recapture the animal. The goal is typically to return the animal to its designated location or to ensure public safety.

The term can also be used more generally. For example, a person might speak of trying to "recatch" a train they missed or "recatch" a falling object. In these instances, it signifies a second attempt at capture or retrieval after an initial failure. The underlying principle remains the same: to regain possession of something that was previously held or accessible.