Assessing noninvasive hair and fecal sampling for monitoring the distribution and abundance of river otter

摘要: Monitoring the distribution and abundance of populations is an important component efforts to meet management or conservation goals. Although objectives for such studies are easy define, cost-effective, precise, accurate estimates often elusive. We tested efficacy compared cost-effectiveness methods estimating number recording river otter (Lontra canadensis). genotyped hair sampled using two noninvasive instruments those results with a hypothetical study design based on DNA extracted from fecal matter. Patterns generated collected at latrine sites were then observations VHF radiotelemetry. achieved high probability genotyping small hairs (i.e., 59.0 % producing genotype 1 guard >5 under samples) wire body snares knaplock snags. Body more effective collecting hair, but there was relatively little additional cost both sampling instruments. Genotyped resulted in multi-year recapture rate (61.9 %). Hair collection most cost-effective method monitoring ($168.50 US/datum) followed by radiotelemetry ($264.50 US/datum), extraction matter ($266.00 US/datum). However, techniques did not represent full fine-scale movements otter, as observed There has been much recent reporting source conducting mark–recapture population mesocarnivores. Our data suggested that may be efficient approach.