Can hair traps sample wild boar (Sus scrofa) randomly for the purpose of non-invasive population estimation?

摘要: Reliable estimation of population size remains a major challenge in wildlife ecology and management. Lately, genotyping non-invasively obtained tissue samples integrated modified capture–recapture approach provides new perspectives. Faeces, moulted feathers, or hairs can be easily sampled the field. However, an important assumption is homogeneity sampling across population. In this pilot study, we tested suitability baited barbed wire hair stations (‘hair traps’) for homogeneous genetic estimation. A video system based on network internet protocol was used to observe behaviour wild boar visiting traps gaining information about potential heterogeneities individual probability. Within 92 monitoring nights at two stations, 216 visits were recorded 142 containing 2,124 single collected. Video analysis revealed distinct differences with respect station which are most likely result heterogeneous probabilities. Adult subadult animals differed their dependent group status. This indicates that not suitable representative non-invasive free ranging populations.