Table 1. Comparative applicability of non-invasive genetic sampling (NGS) with other monitoring methods for addressing specific research objectives related to animal movement at wildlife crossing structures and population connectivity across roads. GPS = global positioning system. X = best method, x = suitable method.
| |
| |
|
|
|
Monitoring method |
|
|
|
| Research objectives |
Track pads |
Remote cameras |
NGS sampling |
Radio- telemetry/ GPS collars |
| |
|
Species identification |
X |
X |
x |
x |
|
Direction of travel |
X |
X |
|
X |
|
Individual identification |
|
|
X |
x |
|
Sex determination |
|
|
X |
x |
|
Detection of juveniles using crossings with mother |
x |
X |
X |
x |
|
Species-level spatial patterns (preference for crossing types by
species) |
X |
X |
x |
x |
|
Species-level temporal patterns (annual and seasonal use by
species) |
X |
X |
x |
x |
|
Individual-level general spatial patterns (preference for crossing types by
individuals) |
|
|
X |
X |
|
Individual-level general temporal patterns (annual and seasonal use by
individuals) |
|
|
X |
X |
|
Individual-level fine-scale spatial use (how are crossings incorporated
into home-range movements) |
|
|
|
X |
|
Individual-level fine-scale temporal use (when do individuals incorporate
crossings into movements) |
|
|
|
X |
|
Population-level spatial patterns (context for crossing type
preferences) |
|
|
x |
X |
|
Population-level temporal patterns (context for annual and seasonal
use) |
|
|
x |
X |
|
Detection of long-distance disperser at crossings |
|
|
X |
|
|
Estimate relationships and parentage of individuals using
crossings |
|
|
X |
x |
|
Estimate change in gene flow due to presence of crossings |
|
|
X |
x |
|
Estimate change in population survival due to presence of
crossings |
|
|
|
X |
|
Estimate change in population fecundity due to presence of
crossings |
|
|
|
X |
|
| |
|