Wild animals' monitoring and conservation: how boosting data collection through the use of camera traps

Monitoring wild animals using camera traps is a crucial conservation tool. Nowadays, the advancement of this technology has significantly increased the volume of data available for analysis. However, due to its complexity, proper training is essential for effective use. Various factors can influence detection probability, including the camera’s detection zone, placement, ambient temperature, animal interference, and even vandalism. Despite these challenges, camera traps are emerging as a valuable alternative to traditional methods for estimating population’ stability. Given that most wildlife species lack natural markings, innovative methods have emerged that utilize camera traps without requiring individual identification. One such method is the Random Encounter Method, which estimates species diversity, density and abundance within a given territory. Moreover, during the soft release phase of reintroduction projects, camera traps can play a vital role in assessing the success of the release by evaluating how animals react and adapt to the new environment. The diversity of species in an area is crucial for understanding the prey-predator balance, resource availability, and overall environmental health, all of which inform the feasibility of introducing a new individual. In my case study at Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary in Costa Rica, I deployed seven camera traps in a designated area. By analysing the collected data, I calculated species diversity using both the Shannon and Simpson indices. This analysis aimed to evaluate whether the territory could support the reintroduction of a female ocelot currently in the Pre-Release area of the rescue centre where I worked.