A general approach of using hair-tubes to monitor the European red squirrel: A method applicable at regional and national scales

摘要: Monitoring constitutes a key element in the management and conservation of many mammal species. We describe technique to obtain population indices for red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) using hair-tubes compare these estimates obtained by live trapping. Data were collected seven study areas Western Central Alps Italy compared with data previously 11 sites northern England. The aim was test if hair-tube census could be used derive general predictive model allowing accurate predictions squirrel numbers different years, habitats geographic regions. equations developed from proportion visited predict densities live-trapping. Hair-tube gathered correctly predicted Alps. A combined set pooling two regions based on first three years successfully successive years. In addition, derived monitored five had high value locally (89%) internationally (73%) when applied English set. therefore believe that this monitor populations European low density conifer (0.1–0.5 squirrels/ha). approach may also suitable tree North America other arboreal rodents occur at similar densities.