Camera traps are an effective method for identifying individuals and determining the sex of spotted-tailed quolls (Dasyurus maculatus gracilis)

2020 ◽  
Vol 42 (3) ◽  
pp. 349
Author(s):  
Jesse Rowland ◽  
Conrad J. Hoskin ◽  
Scott Burnett
Keyword(s):  
Additional Data ◽  
Ventral Surface ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
The Other ◽  
Individual Identification ◽  
Spot Pattern ◽  
Multiple Images ◽  
Live Trapping ◽  
Bait Station ◽  
Mesh Bag

We compared two bait station techniques for determining the sex and identifying individual spotted-tailed quolls (Dasyurus maculatus gracilis) using images taken by camera traps. One method used bait in a plastic mesh bag and the other was a new method using a raised bait canister to entice the quolls to stand on their hind legs and present their ventral surface to the camera. Individuals were identified from multiple images of their unique spot pattern, and sex was determined from ventral images. The bait bag method was better for detecting quolls and both methods performed similarly in allowing observers to identify individuals from images. However, the bait canister method was superior for determining sex of individuals. Using this new bait canister method, individual identification was possible in 202 out of 206 detection events and the sex of 81% (47 of 58) of identified individuals was confidently assigned from multiple detections. This bait station design can therefore provide additional data on individual quolls and reduces the need for more invasive live-trapping techniques. This methodology could be adapted for other mammals in Australia and worldwide.

REDESCRIPTION OF LIPAROCEPHALUS LITORALIS, AND KEY TO THE SPECIES OF LIPAROCEPHALUS (COLEOPTERA: STAPHYLINIDAE: ALEOCHARINAE)

2000 ◽  
Vol 132 (5) ◽  
pp. 567-571 ◽  
Author(s):  
Munestoshi Maruyama ◽  
Kee-Jeong Ahn
Keyword(s):  
Geographical Distribution ◽  
Additional Data ◽  
Kuril Islands ◽  
The Other

AbstractLiparocephalus litoralis Kirschenblatt is redescribed from specimens recently collected and illustrated. Additional data on its geographical distribution (Kuril Islands, Russia, and Hokkaido, Japan) are added. A modified key is provided to differentiate L. litoralis from the other recognized species of the genus Liparocephalus Mäklin.

Spot on: using camera traps to individually monitor one of the world’s largest lizards

2020 ◽  
Vol 47 (4) ◽  
pp. 326 ◽  
Author(s):  
Harry A. Moore ◽  
Jacob L. Champney ◽  
Judy A. Dunlop ◽  
Leonie E. Valentine ◽  
Dale G. Nimmo
Keyword(s):  
Activity Patterns ◽  
Image Data ◽  
Dorsal Surface ◽  
Camera Trap ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
Identification Accuracy ◽  
Individual Identification ◽  
Lizard Species ◽  
Late Afternoon ◽  
Large Animals

Abstract ContextEstimating animal abundance often relies on being able to identify individuals; however, this can be challenging, especially when applied to large animals that are difficult to trap and handle. Camera traps have provided a non-invasive alternative by using natural markings to individually identify animals within image data. Although camera traps have been used to individually identify mammals, they are yet to be widely applied to other taxa, such as reptiles. AimsWe assessed the capacity of camera traps to provide images that allow for individual identification of the world’s fourth-largest lizard species, the perentie (Varanus giganteus), and demonstrate other basic morphological and behavioural data that can be gleaned from camera-trap images. MethodsVertically orientated cameras were deployed at 115 sites across a 10000km2 area in north-western Australia for an average of 216 days. We used spot patterning located on the dorsal surface of perenties to identify individuals from camera-trap imagery, with the assistance of freely available spot ID software. We also measured snout-to-vent length (SVL) by using image-analysis software, and collected image time-stamp data to analyse temporal activity patterns. ResultsNinety-two individuals were identified, and individuals were recorded moving distances of up to 1975m. Confidence in identification accuracy was generally high (91%), and estimated SVL measurements varied by an average of 6.7% (min=1.8%, max=21.3%) of individual SVL averages. Larger perenties (SVL of >45cm) were detected mostly between dawn and noon, and in the late afternoon and early evening, whereas small perenties (SVL of <30cm) were rarely recorded in the evening. ConclusionsCamera traps can be used to individually identify large reptiles with unique markings, and can also provide data on movement, morphology and temporal activity. Accounting for uneven substrates under cameras could improve the accuracy of morphological estimates. Given that camera traps struggle to detect small, nocturnal reptiles, further research is required to examine whether cameras miss smaller individuals in the late afternoon and evening. ImplicationsCamera traps are increasingly being used to monitor reptile species. The ability to individually identify animals provides another tool for herpetological research worldwide.

scholarly journals Daily Activity Patterns and Co-Occurrence of Duikers Revealed by an Intensive Camera Trap Survey across Central African Rainforests

Animals ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 2200
Author(s):  
Fructueux G. A. Houngbégnon ◽  
Daniel Cornelis ◽  
Cédric Vermeulen ◽  
Bonaventure Sonké ◽  
Stephan Ntie ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Daily Activity ◽  
Activity Patterns ◽  
Camera Trap ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
The Other ◽  
Species Pairs ◽  
Free Ranging ◽  
First Time ◽  
Daily Activity Patterns ◽  
Temporal Overlap

The duiker community in Central African rainforests includes a diversity of species that can coexist in the same area. The study of their activity patterns is needed to better understand habitat use or association between the species. Using camera traps, we studied the temporal activity patterns, and quantified for the first time the temporal overlap and spatial co-occurrence between species. Our results show that: (i) Two species are strongly diurnal: Cephalophus leucogaster, and Philantomba congica, (ii) two species are mostly diurnal: C.callipygus and C. nigrifrons, (iii) one species is strongly nocturnal: C.castaneus, (iv) and one species is mostly nocturnal: C.silvicultor. Analyses of temporal activities (for five species) identified four species pairs that highly overlapped (Δ^≥ 0.80), and six pairs that weakly overlapped (Δ^ between 0.06 and 0.35). Finally, co-occurrence tests reveal a truly random co-occurrence (plt > 0.05 and pgt > 0.05) for six species pairs, and a positive co-occurrence (pgt < 0.05) for four pairs. Positive co-occurrences are particularly noted for pairs formed by C.callipygus with the other species (except C. nigrifrons). These results are essential for a better understanding of the coexistence of duikers and the ecology of poorly known species (C. leucogaster and C. nigrifrons), and provide clarification on the activity patterns of C. silvicultor which was subject to controversy. Camera traps proved then to be a powerful tool for studying the activity patterns of free-ranging duiker populations.

scholarly journals MtDNA Analyses on Hair Samples Confirm Cougar, Puma concolor, Presence in Southern New Brunswick, Eastern Canada

2006 ◽  
Vol 120 (4) ◽  
pp. 438 ◽  
Author(s):  
A.-S. Bertrand ◽  
S. Kenn ◽  
D. Gallant ◽  
E. Tremblay ◽  
L. Vasseur ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
New Brunswick ◽  
Additional Data ◽  
Detection Method ◽  
Puma Concolor ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
Eastern Canada ◽  
Physical Evidence ◽  
Hair Samples ◽  
The Status ◽  
Historical Range

For the last 40 years, the presence of Cougars (Puma concolor) in eastern Canada has been highly controversial. The purpose of this study was to collect physical evidence of Cougars using a passive detection method. Baited hair-traps combined with camera-traps were installed in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada. DNA analyses on two hair samples confirmed that the species was present in southern New Brunswick in 2003. A footprint photographed after an observation of a Cougar by reliable observers was examined by experts and was consistent with a Cougar footprint. Additional data are required to determine the status of Cougars in the northeastern part of its historical range.

Developmental Variation in the Dermal Glands and Wax Secretions of the Mealybug, Phenacoccus fraxinus (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae)

2009 ◽  
Vol 44 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-68 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yanfeng Zhang ◽  
Yingping Xie ◽  
Jiaoliang Xue ◽  
Weimin Liu
Keyword(s):  
Life Stage ◽  
Ventral Surface ◽  
Early Summer ◽  
The Other ◽  
Scale Insects ◽  
Nymphal Stage ◽  
Developmental Variation ◽  
Dermal Glands ◽  
Adult Females ◽  
Wax Production

A microscopic study of the dermal glands and wax secretions of the mealybug Phenacoccus fraxinus Tang demonstrated that the type, structure, size, quantity and distribution of dermal glands varied with life stage. These variations resulted in different quantities and morphology of waxy secretions with development. The apertures of the trilocular pores were initially small, irregular narrow seams on 1st instars. By the 3rd nymphal stage, these apertures were large and figure-8 shaped. Slender wax filaments were produced in the 1st stage, whereas wax filaments produced in the 3rd stage had an indentation along the middle. These tilocular pores were distributed on the dorsum and the venter of both stages, corresponding to the shape of the aperture. Quinquilocular pores were characterized by a thick rim and were scattered on the ventral surface, but these were not distributed in spiracle furrows as observed with other scale insects. Tubular ducts were composed of 2 layers—outer and inner ductiles—that resulted in the wax secreted from them being long, hollow filaments that served as a framework for the cocoon and ovisac structures. Wax production from these tubular ducts occurred at two distinct times during development. One occurred in late autumn and was produced by the older 2nd -instar nymphs. These waxy filaments were used to construct cocoons for the overwintering mealybugs. The other event occurred in early summer with adult females. These filaments were used to construct the ovisac. During other times of the year, these tubular ducts produced no additional wax.

scholarly journals THE NERVOUS MECHANISM OF COORDINATION IN THE CRINOID, ANTEDON ROSACEUS

1924 ◽  
Vol 6 (3) ◽  
pp. 281-288 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. R. Moore
Keyword(s):  
Ventral Side ◽  
Ventral Surface ◽  
Reciprocal Inhibition ◽  
The Other ◽  
Dynamic Symmetry ◽  
Other Hand ◽  
Stimulation Of

1. Stimulation causes Antedon to swim by means of alternate oral bending and dorsal stroke of the arms. Two arms of a given ray move alternately so that while one is executing the aboral stroke its mate is flexing ventrally. This implies reciprocal inhibition. 2. Recriprocal inhibition between the two arms of an isolated ray can be abolished by the use of either strychnine or nicotine. 3. Coordination between the rays is referable to the conducting properties of the nervous pentagon which connects the five rays. In this system an impulse loses in effectiveness as it passes from the point of origin. 4. When Antedon is made to rest oral face down on the floor of an aquarium, oral flexion of all the rays, swimming movements, and righting result. Antedon is therefore negatively stereotropic with reference to its ventral side. 5. Excitation of the dorsal cirri results in aboral bending of all the rays. Stimulation of the cirri inhibits ventral flexion to the extent of preventing righting movements while on the other hand stimulation of the ventral surface inhibits the grasp reflex of the cirri. Thus oral and aboral sides of Antedon exhibit dynamic symmetry although structurally dissimilar.

Animal detections vary among commonly used camera trap models

2017 ◽  
Vol 44 (4) ◽  
pp. 291 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael M. Driessen ◽  
Peter J. Jarman ◽  
Shannon Troy ◽  
Sophia Callander
Keyword(s):  
Camera Trap ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
Substantial Proportion ◽  
Multiple Camera ◽  
Animal Activity ◽  
Bait Station ◽  
Animal Images ◽  
A Site ◽  
Expensive Model ◽  
Better Than

Context Understanding how different camera trap models vary in their ability to detect animals is important to help identify which cameras to use to meet the objectives of a study. Aims To compare the efficacy of four camera trap models (representing two commonly used brands of camera, Reconyx and Scoutguard) to detect small- and medium-sized mammals and birds. Methods Four camera models were placed side by side, focused on a bait station, under field conditions, and the numbers of triggers and visits by mammals and birds were compared. Trigger=camera sensor is activated and records an image of an animal. Visit=one or a sequence of triggers containing one or more images of a species, with no interval between animal images greater than 5min. Key results The Scoutguard 530V camera recorded fewer than half of the triggers and visits by all animals that the Reconyx H600, Scoutguard 560K and Keepguard 680V cameras recorded. The latter three cameras recorded similar numbers of visits by mammals, but the Reconyx H600 recorded fewer triggers by medium-sized mammals than the Keepguard 680V. All camera models failed to detect a substantial proportion of the total known triggers and visits by animals, with a greater proportion of visits detected (14–88%) than triggers (5–83%). All camera models recorded images with no animals present (blanks), with Reconyx H600 recording the fewest blank images. Conclusions Camera trap models can vary in their ability to detect triggers and visits by small- and medium-sized mammals and birds. Some cheaper camera models can perform as well as or better than a more expensive model in detecting animals, but factors other than cost may need to be considered. Camera traps failed to detect a substantial proportion of known triggers and visits by animals. Number of visits is a more useful index of animal activity or abundance than number of triggers. Implications Variation in camera performance needs to be taken into consideration when designing or comparing camera surveys if multiple camera models are used, especially if the aim is to compare animal activity or abundance. If maximising the number of animal visits recorded at a site is important, then consideration should be given to using two or more cameras.

scholarly journals The tetrapod fauna of the upper Permian Naobaogou Formation of China: 3. Jiufengia jiai gen. et sp. nov., a large akidnognathid therocephalian

PeerJ ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. e6463 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jun Liu ◽  
Fernando Abdala
Keyword(s):  
New Species ◽  
Ventral Surface ◽  
Field Trips ◽  
The Other ◽  
Upper Permian ◽  
New Taxon ◽  
Late Permian ◽  
Postcranial Skeleton

Recent field trips to Member III of the Naobaogou Formation, Nei Mongol, China yielded new fossil discoveries, increasing our knowledge of the late Permian continental fauna from China. We present here a new large therocephalian, Jiufengia jiai gen. et sp. nov., represented by a partial skull with mandibles and part of the postcranial skeleton. This is the second therocephalian recovered from the Naobaogou faunal association and, in turn, the second akidnognathid from this unit and from China. The new taxon shows clear differences from Shiguaignathus wangi, the akidnogathid previously reported from the Naobaogou Formation: the presence of four upper postcanines, of a large suborbital vacuity, and the flat ventral surface of the vomer, lacking a ventromedian crest. Updating a previous phylogeny of therocephalians, we recover the new species as a basal member of Akidnognathidae, above a basal polytomy including the other two Laurasian akidnognathids, Shiguaignathus and Annatherapsidus, adding support to the hypothesis that this group originated in Laurasia.

scholarly journals Population status of jaguars (Panthera onca) and pumas (Puma concolor) in northeastern Sonora, Mexico

2012 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Octavio C. Rosas-Rosas ◽  
Louis C. Bender
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
Puma Concolor ◽  
Breeding Population ◽  
The United States ◽  
Small Population ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
Individual Identification ◽  
Population Status ◽  
High Turnover ◽  
Minimum Numbers

Jaguars are endangered in Mexico and the United States, necessitating careful monitoring of population status. We determined minimum numbers of jaguars and sympatric pumas in a small population in northern Sonora, Mexico, the nearest known breeding population to the United States, by photographic captures supplemented by idiosyncratic features of tracks from track surveys (1999-2005). We also developed a discriminant function to differentiate species (jaguar v. puma) and sexes within species, which also aided in individual identification. Photographic captures identified 5 individual jaguars; this estimate was increased to 12 using idiosyncratic features and discriminant analysis of tracks.Jaguar kittens were only detected by track surveys. All jaguars identified by photographs were previously detected by tracks, but most (7 of 12) known from tracks were not captured in photographs. Jaguar presence was fluid; we identified 6 individual jaguars from 1999-2003, but only 3 of these were still present in 2004. We documented 4 new individuals during 2005, when none of the previously identified jaguars were detected. Similarly, we identified 14 individual pumas by tracks, but only 11 of these were captured in photographs. Four hindfoot measurements varied among species and sexes of jaguars and pumas, and these measurements were able to correctly classify 85-97% of tracks to the correct species and sex. Due to the high turnover of this jaguar population, which is at its fringe of the jaguar range in North America, we recommend constant monitoring of population status with camera traps and track surveys. If only limited resources are available, we recommend monitoring only with track surveys because they detected a greater number of individuals and all age classes of individuals. 

scholarly journals BEHAVIORAL RESPONSE OF THE MARA(Dolichotis patagonum) TO FOOD DENSITY IN ARGENTINA

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 40
Author(s):  
Ailin Gatica ◽  
Antonio M. Mangione
Keyword(s):  
Food Intake ◽  
Behavioral Response ◽  
Camera Traps ◽  
The Other ◽  
Food Density ◽  
Patch Quality ◽  
Nocturnal Activity ◽  
San Luis ◽  
Foraging Models ◽  
Predator Behavior

AbstractOptimal foraging models predict animals will consume more food from patches of higher initial densities. They also predict that when food is scarce in the environment, animals will have greater foraging efforts in the patch and hence shorter vigilance times. As an anti-predator behavior an increase in group size is correlated with a reduction of individual vigilance time. We evaluated Dolichotis patagonum´s (mara) behaviors: feeding, vigilance, walking, and others (sniffing, grooming, resting) in relation to different food densities (100 g, 70 g and 40 g of alfalfa pellet, mixed with 5kg of sifted soil, offered in wooden box) in a field experiment by using camera traps. As a novelty, maras showed nocturnal activity. They also showed an increase in vigilance time when they were in pairs compared to when they were alone, by alternating feeding and vigilance behaviors. When food density changed, no variation in vigilance was observed and food intake only changed between 100 g and the other two food densities offered. We propose that: first, maras are cathemeral animals. Second, mara´s knowledge about patches is critical to assess patch quality. Finally, alternating feeding and vigilance when in pairs, could be and efficient anti-predator strategy in environments with high predator pressure.Key words: activity pattern, camera traps, Dolichotis patagonum, food consumption, San Luis, vigilance. ResumenLos modelos de forrajeo óptimo predicen que los animales van a consumir más alimento en aquellos parches con mayores densidades iniciales. Además, predicen que cuando el alimento sea escaso, los animales tendrán mayores esfuerzos de forrajeo en cada parche y por tanto menores tiempos de vigilancia. La vigilancia individual también disminuirá al aumentar el tamaño de grupo. En este experimento de campo evaluamos, a través de cámaras trampa, el comportamiento de: alimentación, vigilancia, desplazamiento y otros (ej.: olfatear, acicalarse, descansar) de Dolichotis patagonum (mara) en relación a diferentes densidades de alimento (100 g, 70 g y 40 g de pelets de alfalfa mezclado con arena cernida dentro de cajones de madera). Como dato novedoso se observó actividad nocturna. También se observó un aumento en la vigilancia cuando estaban en pareja que al estar solas, dado que alternaban la vigilancia y la alimentación. Entre las densidades de alimento no se observó variación en la vigilancia y la ingesta de alimento cambió solo entre 100 g y las otras dos densidades ofrecidas. Por lo cual proponemos que, primero, la mara es un animal catemeral. Segundo, el conocimiento que las maras tienen de los parches es crítico para evaluar su calidad. Finalmente, la alternancia de comportamientos en la pareja podría ser una estrategia anti-predatoria en ambientes con altas presión de depredación.Palabras clave: patrón de actividad, cámaras trampas, consumo de alimento, Dolichotis patagonum, vigilancia, San Luis. 

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