Monitoring Species of Concern Using Noninvasive Genetic Sampling and Capture-Recapture Methods
Abstract
Through this project we demonstrated the effectiveness of an approach utilizing noninvasive genetic sampling combined with capture-recapture methods (NGS-CR) to evaluate the status of kit fox (Vulpes macrotis) populations on Dug way Proving Ground (DPG) and Sonoran pronghorn (Antilocapra americana sonoriensis) on the Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR). We compared the reliability of demographic parameters and the cost-efficiency of NGS-CR approaches with alternative approaches. We developed a spatio-temporal sampling design for acquiring noninvasive genetic data (via fecal scats) from individuals, genotyped samples for individual identification, analyzed genotypes with capture-recapture methods to obtain estimates of key population parameters, and developed a protocol for long-term monitoring in the future. We also quantified expenditures to examine cost efficiency of the approach. For both species, we concluded the NGS-CR method provided reliable estimates, improved monitoring (i.e., increased the number of demographic parameters estimates), and improved monitoring efficiency. Survey results indicated managers and technicians NGS-CR methods were easier to implement than traditional methods (e.g., radio telemetry). Managers at these installations have expressed interest in continuing using these NGS-CR methods.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1025931
Entities
People
- Lisette P. Waits
- Robert C Lonsinger
- Susannah P. Woodruff
Organizations
- University of Idaho