Scat DNA as a non-invasive method for estimating the abundance of the vulnerable mala (Lagorchestes hirsutus)

Context Population-monitoring programs often use direct (e.g. live capture or spotlighting) indirect scats sightings) observations to estimate population abundance. Such methods, however, are inadequate for rare, elusive, cryptic species due the difficulty in achieving sufficient encounters detection rates. The mala (Lagorchestes hirsutus), a small native Australian macropod, listed as Vulnerable by IUCN, is difficult capture, susceptible myopathy, and not easily sighted their dense habitat; consequently, size cannot always be estimated. of molecular markers identify individual genotypes from non-invasively collected samples increasingly being used wildlife conservation may an alternative approach mala.Aim aim this study was evaluate efficacy non-invasive scat DNA sampling abundance mala.Methods A panel microsatellite developed identification via profiling scats. Scats were systematically wild located 1100-ha fenced reserve Western Australia. Individual determined using markers, estimated with spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) mark–resight analyses.Key results genetic proved variable exclusionary power confidently unique individuals (mean locus genotyping error rate: 3.1%). sampling, when traditional mark–recapture/resight analytical models, provides feasible estimates This first reliable population, suggesting >70% increase since initial reintroduction 64 2011–13.Conclusions Given inherent difficulties surveying mala, would valuable ensure effective monitoring few remaining island populations prevent further decline vulnerable species.Implications species-specific genetic-capture population. evaluation technique that can applied other threatened species.