An approach to estimating density from line transect data where the animals move in response to the observer

Abstract

An approach is presented for estimating density from line transect data where the animals move away in response to the observer. This estimation method involves fitting the perpendicular sighting distances to the Weibull distribution. Estimates of the Weibull parameters are incorporated into the density estimate. When movement exists, even light movement, this method greatly outperforms the Fourier series estimator. It also outperforms the Fourier series estimator in some low density situations when there is no movement. The Weibull method shows promise for estimating density in the presence of movement and further development is planned.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Richard M. Engeman

Jeffrey F. Bromaghin