Detection‐Dog‐Guided Camera Placement Increases Efficiency of Surveys for Long‐Tailed Weasels ( Neogale frenata )

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Abstract
Multi‐species surveys are commonly used to monitor mesocarnivore populations, but these methods often result in insufficient detection of cryptic species. Long‐tailed Weasels ( Neogale frenata ) are cryptic carnivores that conventional survey techniques rarely detect. Therefore, we compared Long‐tailed Weasel detection rates and costs of an intensive, widespread community‐level camera survey and a multi‐method camera survey that used detection dogs to guide camera placement. The detection‐dog‐guided camera survey had approximately 33 times greater detections with fewer camera nights and reduced survey costs. Monthly detection rates were highest using detection‐dog‐guided camera surveys during the pregnancy and parturition period. Both survey methods confirmed the presence of Long‐tailed Weasels, demonstrating that method suitability depends on survey objective. Our research contributes to refining non‐invasive surveying techniques for weasels amid increasing concerns of population declines and range constrictions.
Funding Information
  • Georgia Department Of Natural Resources (RGDNR000150880A)

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