Evaluating noninvasive genetic sampling techniques to estimate large carnivore abundance.

Area of Science:

• Wildlife ecology
• Conservation genetics
• Population monitoring

Background:

• Monitoring large carnivores presents challenges due to low population densities and risks associated with physical capture.
• Noninvasive genetic sampling (NGS) offers a safer and more economical alternative for genetic material collection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of two NGS methods (scat detection dogs and hair sampling) for estimating the abundance of coyotes, black bears, and Canada lynx.
• To compare the costs and cost-effectiveness of different NGS methods across various species and study sites.
• To determine the necessary sampling intensity for achieving precise abundance estimates.

Main Methods:

• Utilized scat detection dogs and hair sampling techniques for noninvasive genetic sample collection.
• Employed program 'capwire' for abundance estimation calculations.
• Conducted cost-benefit analyses and simulations to evaluate sampling intensity and precision.

Main Results:

• Scat sampling proved effective for coyotes and bears; hair snags were successful for bears in most locations.
• Rub pads were found to be ineffective for sampling coyotes and lynx.
• Abundance estimate precision correlated with the number of genetic captures per individual, with ~3.4 captures/individual needed for <10% CV in small populations.

Conclusions:

• Scat sampling is generally more cost-effective for monitoring multiple species.
• Hair sampling may be more economical for bears in areas with restricted road access.
• The optimal NGS strategy is species- and site-specific, often necessitating pilot studies for effective wildlife population monitoring.