Development of an Aerial Population Survey Method for Elk (Cervus elaphus) in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Schoenecker KA, Lubow BC, Johnson TL. 2018. Development of an Aerial Population Survey Method for Elk (Cervus elaphus) in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. 2018-1085. U.S. Geological Survey
The authors evaluated alternative survey and analysis methods for aerial elk population size estimation in Rocky Mountain National Park. They concluded that a hybrid population-estimation model using a simultaneous double-observer technique with sighting covariates was the most appropriate and effective aerial survey methodology for this population and the environmental conditions in RMNP. Instructional protocols for conducting these surveys in the future, along with datasheets, are provided in this report’s appendixes.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Schoenecker, Kathryn; Lubow, Bruce; Johnson, Therese
- Date of Issue
- 2018
- Publisher
- U.S. Geological Survey
- Units
- ROMO
- Keywords
- aerial survey, Cervus elaphus, covariate, Elk, helicopter, population size, simultaneous double count, survey method
- Subjects
- Ecological Framework: Biological Integrity | Focal Species or Communities | Mammals