Evaluation of camera trapping as a method for estimating abundances in the European badger Meles meles (Linnaeus, 1758)

Abstract

Wildlife conservation requires accurate methods to assess populations. Latrine counts are commonly used to estimate European badger (Meles meles) populations but may be ineffective in low-density areas. This study evaluated camera trapping as an alternative through two experiments in three regions with different badger densities. In northern Madrid (high density), the effectiveness of four attractants (cologne, sardines, Iberian lynx urine, and valerian extract) was compared, revealing marginally significant differences in detectability. The results suggested a trend indicating that cologne and sardines were the most effective attractants for detecting badgers. In Galicia (high density) and southeastern Madrid (low density), these two attractants (cologne and sardines) were used to compare relative abundances obtained from camera trapping and latrine counts. No correlation was found between the abundance estimates derived from both methods, and their effectiveness varied by region. Camera trapping, in combination with attractants, appears to be a useful method for detecting badgers in low-density areas where latrine counts are ineffective. Our results highlight the importance of adapting monitoring methods to the ecological characteristics and population densities of target species. Additionally, they underscore the need to consider environmental and habitat variations, which may significantly influence the accuracy and effectiveness of abundance estimates.