Wolf monitoring in France : a dual frame process to survey time- and space-related changes in the population

摘要: The wolf recovery in France dates back to 1992, following the natural range expansion of remaining Italian population since late 1960’s. Facing a high level interactions between wolves and sheep breeding, decision makers had quickly balance need for managing livestock depredations with conservation as protected species. French authorities therefore required reliable assessment changes species numbers, well monitoring on livestock, all being key variables be further included within governmental making process. Because their elusive behaviour, mobility, territoriality, applying standard random sampling design awolf would lead almost no chance collecting any signs presence. In order increase detectability, we use dual frame survey based two spatial scales (“population range” “reproductive unit”) investigated sequentially thanks network specifically-trained experts distributed over 80000 km2 collect data. First, an extensive sign at large scale provides so-called cross-sectional data (pool from unknown individuals given year), thereby allowing detection new occurrences, pack formations, documentation geographical trends. Secondly, intensive each detected territory, snow tracking howling playback sessions, some yearly updatable proxies demographic pattern. combination non invasive molecular longitudinal develop mark-recapture models estimate vital rates, size growth rate, while accounting probabilities. latter are used turn control proxies’ reliability implement local parameters. Finally, activity patterns connection predator-prey dynamics is through pilot study carried out both four ungulate preys radio-collared. A particular attention paid checking presence data, improving cost-efficiency ratio monitoring. these results also by government one components process related management coexistence