Title

Using Infrared-Triggered Cameras to Monitor Activity of Forest Carnivores

Authors

Matthew E. Symmank, Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept, Richland Creek Wildlife Management Area, Streetman TX 75859
Christopher E. Comer, Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture, Stephen F. Austin State University, Nacogdoches, Texas 75962Follow
James Kroll, Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture, Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2014

Abstract

The activity patterns of 4 forest predator species were monitored, usinginfrared-triggered cameras, within a 1318-ha study area in East Texas. We recorded 161 photographic capture events in 1925 trap-nights over 17 weeks. Photographic capture events included 18 Lynx rufus (Bobcat), 109 Procyon lotor (Raccoon), 21 Didelphis virginiana (Virginia Opossum), and 13 Canis latrans (Coyote). We developed an easily replicated method of measuring time on a percent scale to compare activity data over several months, accounting for changes in sunrise and sunset times. Bobcat activity was 38.9% crepuscular and 22.1% diurnal. The activity of the other 3 species was mostly nocturnal: Raccoon 94.5%, Virginia Opossum 100%, and Coyote 77%. Moon phase based on percentage of visible light did not affect either Raccoon or Virginia Opossum nocturnal activity level.

Comments

Authorized users may access full text at: http://www.bioone.org/doi/pdf/10.1656/058.013.s501

Originally published in: Southeastern Naturalist, 13(sp5):172-183. 2014

Repository Citation

Symmank, Matthew E.; Comer, Christopher E.; and Kroll, James, "Using Infrared-Triggered Cameras to Monitor Activity of Forest Carnivores" (2014). Faculty Publications. 412.
https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/forestry/412

DOI

10.1656/058.013.s501