Using remotely activated cameras to monitor maternal dens of martens
Jones LL, Raphael MG, Forbes JT, Clark LA. 1997. Using remotely activated cameras to monitor maternal dens of martens. Martes: Taxomony, Ecology, Techniques, and Management
Taken from abstract: "Maternal dens are essential elements of American marten habitat, yet information on how these structures are used is lacking. Since 1993, we monitored maternal dens by using remotely activated cameras. A burrow camera was sometimes used to verify the presence of kits prior to placement of external cameras. We used both 35-mm still cameras and 8-mm video cameras outside marten dens. Both types of cameras were activated by infrared sensors. We documented 1 or more martens in 1054 photographs or video events. Early in the denning period, females were most often observed; kits began appearing the first 2 weeks of July. Adult males were observed at 6 of 16 dens. Specific behavioral traits included kit transfer; scent-marking; grooming, play, and prey capture, transfer and consumption. The use of cameras proved effective for monitoring dens but they are somewhat problematic and have limitations. Video cameras provided more detailed information than 35-mm cameras."
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Jones, Lawrence; Raphael, Martin; Forbes, J; Clark, Laurie
- Units
- CRLA
- Keywords
- American marten, camera, Den, kit, Mammal, Martes americana, Monitor, Photograph, remotely activated camera, video camera