Observing wildlife and its signs

Information about the biology and behaviour of a species can be gained from direct observation, and from the secondary signs and traces that they leave behind. Typically, these methods do not involve capturing or handling animals and can be performed without disturbing them. Observing and identifying secondary animal signs are often done opportunistically during survey and monitoring activities, or while travelling between sites. However, systematic collection of scats or sand plots can help derive abundance estimates, and determine species’ presence/absence. This chapter presents general operating procedures (GOPs) for direct detection survey methods, including visual observations of animals, spotlight surveys, and the use of artificial cavities (nest boxes and hollows) to study animals. It also details several forms of indirect detection based on the evaluation of distinguishing characteristics and signs of animal activity (signs or traces), including hair and scats, tracks and scratches, dens and burrows, and DNA that is shed into the environment. These methods are typically classified as low impact. They rely on the experience of the observer or identifier to conduct observations, and make accurate and reliable assessments of the animal sign. Ideally, investigators identify the best times, locations and techniques specific to the target species before commencing a study (see Section 3 of this book for species profiles). While stress is likely to be minimal, animals may still be disturbed depending on how these methods are implemented, so investigators should consider potential impacts of their specific study and clarify requirements for animal ethics approval with a relevant animal ethics committee (AEC).