Evaluation of Scent-Station Surveys to Monitor Raccoon Density
Nottingham BG, Johnson KG, Pelton MR. 1989. Evaluation of Scent-Station Surveys to Monitor Raccoon Density. Wildlife Society Bulletin. 17(1):29-35
SUMMARY: We conducted scent-station surveys at Cades Cove (6 months) and Chuck Swan Wildlife Management Area (22 months) in eastern Tennessee to evaluate variation in visitation rates by raccoons and to compare visitation rates with raccoon densities. Five transects were run at Cades Cove; 8 transects were operated at CSWMA. The mean monthly visitation rates were 20.3 and 5.3% in Cades Cove and CSWMA, respectively. Monthly visitation rates at Cades Cove were consistent, whereas visitation at CSWMA was erratic. Comparisons of visitation rates with raccoon density on CSWMA and capture success in Cades Cove showed weak relationships among these measures, indicating questionable value of the technique for monitoring low density populations of raccoons.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Nottingham, Ben; Johnson, Kenneth; Pelton, Michael
- Units
- GRSM
- Keywords
- APHN, Appalachian Highlands Network, Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, GRSM, Mammals, Procyon lotor, raccoon, scent-station, SER, Southeast Region, wildlife management