Acoustic localization at large scales: a promising method for grey wolf monitoring.

摘要: The grey wolf (Canis lupus) is naturally recolonizing its former habitats in Europe where it was extirpated during the previous two centuries. management of this protected species often controversial and monitoring a challenge for conservation purposes. However, elusive carnivore can disperse over long distances various natural contexts, making difficult. Moreover, methods used collecting signs presence are usually time-consuming and/or costly. Currently, new acoustic recording tools contributing to development passive as alternative approaches detecting, monitoring, or identifying that produce sounds nature, such wolf. In present study, we conducted field experiments investigate possibility using low-density microphone array localize wolves at large scale contrasting environments north-eastern France. For scientific social reasons, were based on synthetic sound with similar properties howls. This broadcast several sites. Then, localization estimates accuracy calculated. Finally, linear mixed-effects models identify factors influenced accuracy. Among 354 nocturnal broadcasts total, 269 recorded by least one autonomous recorder, thereby demonstrating potential tool. Besides, 59 four microphones localization. sites localized an overall mean 315 ± 617 (standard deviation) m. After setting threshold temporal error value associated estimated coordinates, some unreliable values excluded decreased 167 ± 308 m. number higher lowland environment, but both environments, although varied significantly among different nights each study area. Our results confirm high accuracy, spatial scales. Passive suitable dynamics recolonization so, will contribute enhance plans.