Changes in Kit Fox Defecation Patterns During the Reproductive Season: Implications for Noninvasive Surveys

• DOI: 10.2193/2009-401
• Publication Date: 2010-08-26T16:41:26Z
• Authors: Katherine Ralls; Sandeep Sharma; Deborah A. Smith; Samantha Bremner-...; Brian L. Cypher; Jesús E. Maldonado
• Keywords: 0106 biological sciences; 01 natural sciences

Noninvasive survey methods based on analyzing DNA extracted from feces can be useful for carnivores that are difficult to study by other methods. Changes in fecal deposition patterns associated with reproduction kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis) might affect results of such surveys. We used a trained dog collect fresh scats 2-km transects the home ranges 11 radiocollared female January, February, and March 2008 determined sex individual deposited amplifying zinc finger protein gene. Female give birth mid-February mid-March. found similar number each month. In ratio was not different expected 1∶1. However, February there were almost 2 male every scat >8 scat. Comparing more all fewer 10 transects. Around time pups born, both sexes appear show changes make it easier find harder scats. Effects these will vary depending purpose design survey. Surveys determine distribution relative abundance would probably negatively affected changes. if surveys estimate conducted during reproductive season, they could result an underestimate population size unless increased heterogeneity detectability is taken into account.