The value of by-catch data: how species-specific surveys can serve non-target species

摘要: Camera trapping has a wide range of research application, but, while designs are often focused on the study single focal species, cameras can also record other non-target species. Occupancy modeling using by-catch data be valuable resource to gain information these species maximizing scientific effort and efficiency wildlife surveys. In this study, we used from European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) survey in Southern Italy assess habitat covariates determinant for occupancy crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata). We recorded 33 detections at 17 out 51 (naive = 0.33). The best models fitted well, estimate was 0.58 (SE ± 0.09) with detection probability 0.11 0.03). Average model showed that woodlands number shrub patches increased occupancy, reverse true altitude. Our results have improved insights use ecological needs understudied it is first develops presence/absence obtained camera trap survey. an example how surveys under-exploited source wider spectrum sympatric beyond which traps were deployed. Minimum requirements provide robust estimates discussed.