Course Syllabus
Mark-recapture
analysis
NRES 896 Module #2 (1 cr)
Course homepage:
http://snr.unl.edu/powell/teaching/nres896/MR/nres896.htm
Survival rates of village chickens with a variety of feeds (Roberts 1999).
Spring 2008
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
School of Natural Resources
Location
TR 3:00-4:15 (February 19 - March 27)
141 Hardin Hall
Instructor
Larkin Powell, Associate Professor
Office: 419 Hardin Hall
Phone: 402.472.6825
Email: lpowell3@unl.edu
Course
description
Introduction to the estimation of demographic parameters from mark-recapture data. Mark-recapture analyses (closed and open population models), survival estimation from band recoveries, live recaptures and resightings, and known fate data (telemetry and avian nest survival data). We will use a variety of software packages, including program MARK. This 1-credit mini-course is computer intensive and applied. Graduate-only course.
Grading
Exams (1): 30%
Homework: 70%
(Explanation of grading system)
Textbook
Cooch,
E., and G. White. 2005. Program MARK: a gentle introduction,
4th edition. Can be viewed and/or downloaded from
here.
Other suggested reading:
Williams, B. K., J. D. Nichols, and M. J. Conroy. 2001. Analysis and management of animal populations. Academic Press. (top recommendation)
Krebs, C. J. 1999. Ecological methodology, 2nd edition. Benjamin/Cummings, Menlo Park, CA.
Millspaugh, J., and J. M Marzloff. 2001. Radio tracking and animal populations. Academic Press.
Thompson, W. L., G. C. White, and C. Gowan. 1998. Monitoring vertebrate populations. Academic Press, San Diego.
Course objectives
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Use mark-recapture analyses to estimate demographic parameters for animal populations, such as survival, movement, and population size.
2. Design and plan a mark-recapture study that provide rigorous data for decision-making.
3. Discuss current literature, method assumptions, and quantitative theory as it pertains to the estimation procedures used in this course.