Population density estimation of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) in Sicily using camera trapping

摘要: The wildcat is an elusive species that threatened with extinction in many areas of its European distribution. In Sicily the lives a wide range habitats; this study was done on Mount Etna. A previous camera trap monitoring conducted 2006 (pilot study) and 2007 (first estimation population size using trapping capture-recapture analyses) same area. 2009 digital traps pair were used at each station aim obtaining photographs wildcat. Experience data collected from studies to develop protocol estimate density wildcat’s capture–recapture analyses coat-colour markings system recognize individuals. Two trap-lines adjacent other run two consecutive collection periods. Camera worked together for 1080 trap-days we obtained 42 pictures wildcats 32 events photographic capture, which 10 individuals ( excluding four kittens) determined. history capture individual constructed software CAPTURE generate (0.22 0.44 wildcat/100 ha) our area different approaches calculation effective sampled. The Etna higher than those found throughout Europe, favoured by habitat structure, prey availability, Mediterranean climate protection status provided park.