Monitoring sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii) populations using camera traps

Abstract

AbstractPopulation densities are an important consideration for wildlife management. For hunted species, estimates of population size are essential for establishing quotas. There are limited data regarding sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekii) abundance, and few studies have used camera traps for estimating population densities. We estimated sitatunga density in the Mayanja River area of central Uganda using the time in front of the camera (TIFC) method, which yields population density estimates using camera‐trap data without having to identify each individual. Density estimates from the TIFC method averaged 11.1 sitatunga/km2, similar to estimates from a spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) study, which requires perfect identification of individuals. These results suggest that TIFC methods accurately estimate population densities and might be an alternative for species where individual identity cannot be determined, or in habitats where typically identifiable species might not be accurately identified to meet the requirements of SECR. In addition, the resulting density estimates can influence management decisions and quotas for hunting.