Joint analysis of mark—recapture, resighting and ring-recovery data with age-dependence and marking-effect

Abstract

Using the joint analysis of live-recapture and ring-recovery data described by Burnham in 1993, we generalize it to the case where resightings of live birds are also reported between capture periods. Explicit estimators under 'random' temporary emigration correspond to those suggested by Jolly in 1965. The model is further generalized to admit age-dependence and a temporary marking effect. Explicit maximum-likelihood estimators under random emigration are reported and also contingency table tests for age-dependence and temporary marking effect. The new analysis is illustrated using a five-year subset of data from a 25-year ringing programme for Goldeneye Ducks Bucephala clangula¸. Alternative forms of emigration from the study area are also discussed.