Accuracy of scat sampling for carnivore diet analysis: wolves in the Alps as a case study

摘要: Abstract We assessed the accuracy of scat-sampling methods in relation to sources bias (statistical independence data and definition sampling unit) precision (sample size). developed a method quantify diets predators accurately study diet selection by wolves (Canis lupus) during 3 winter seasons (1999–2002) Western Alps. The best design avoid pseudoreplication was “additive method,” where presence carcass, estimated either collection scats or carcass itself along travel route wolf, considered 1 unit. Although roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) were primary prey used area, red (Cervus elaphus), recently reintroduced present at low density, selected 2001. evaluated optimal sample size for given question using Monte Carlo simulations. At small sizes, slight increases sizes caused large reductions standard error, greatly improving ...