First you get the money, then you get the power: Comparing the cost and power of monitoring programs to detect changes in occupancy of a threatened marsupial predator

• DOI: 10.1111/csp2.12881
• Publication Date: 2023-01-13T18:27:41Z
• Authors: Harry A. Moore; Judy A. Dunlop; Hayley M. Geyle; Leanne Greenwood; Dale G. Nimmo
• Keywords: Occupancy; Camera trap; Trap (plumbing); Statistical power

Abstract Ecological monitoring is crucial for tracking changes in the status of species over time. However, ensuring that programs possess adequate statistical power—capacity to detect populations with a high level confidence—remains challenge many wildlife managers globally. While new technologies potentially offer cost effective solutions this problem, transitioning these methods requires careful calibration existing techniques, such differences power and can be measured assessed accurately. Here, we compare (camera traps) conventional (live trapping) survey terms occupancy declines an endangered marsupial predator, northern quoll ( Dasyurus hallucatus ). We show camera trap designs 30%, 50%, 80% at reduced when compared live designs, without compromising power. Overall, find support cost‐effectiveness traps its potential replace sampling measuring occupancy. Additionally, robust framework techniques against pre‐existing on basis