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Subject: Introduction to Capture-Mark-Recapture (Online)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Research and management questions often focus on obtaining robust (i.e., unbiased and precise) estimates of various demographic parameters about wildlife populations. Estimates of abundance, density, population growth, state transition rates, and vital rates can provide valuable insights into changes to population status as well as their drivers. Among the most popular and diverse approaches to estimating such parameters includes a suite of sampling and analytical methods known as capture-mark-recapture (or several similar terms). This class will focus on providing a solid foundation to using these techniques to answer a broad range of ecological and management-related questions. We emphasize asking good questions, identifying appropriate sampling methods rooted in animal behavior and ecology, and choosing the right analytical techniques. With these in mind, we will analyze example datasets using both 'canned' (MARK) and command-line software (R) during online lectures and practical exercises.

PREREQUISITES: Introductory statistics; basic competence in R; and familiarity with logistic regression, population ecology, and animal behavior.

FORMAT: Students will take the course at their own pace over a 3-week period. The course is divided into discrete competency-based modules composed of pre-recorded lecture material and hands-on exercises. Students will interact with each other and the instructor by email, online discussion threads, and live Q&A. Each student will also have the opportunity following this 3-week period to meet with the instructor via video consultation to discuss course materials or their individual datasets.

INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Jeff Stetz

DATES: September 6-30, 2022

CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT: This course is approved by The Wildlife Society and the Ecological Society of America for CEU’s (included for FREE).

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR ESA CERTIFICATION: This course is approved by the Ecological Society of America for 1 semester hour of qualified coursework that can be used to meet the minimum education requirements in Physical and Mathematical Science.

PRICE: Early bird course fee (end July 31): $600 professional / $500 student

SCHOLARSHIPS: Full scholarships are available to participants from countries designated as “lower income” and “lower middle income” in the World Bank List of Economies. Please see our CWS World Scholars Program page for details.

For more information/to register, please visit: https://www.centerforwildlifestudies.org/courses/cmr-online-2022


Center for Wildlife Studies <info@centerforwildlifestudies.org>
Wednesday, May 04, 2022