American Crocodile Survey Volunteers
Volunteer Training
No prior knowledge of research techniques is needed, lucky you! All training will be given on-site; an introductory presentation will be given the first day followed by in field training. One of the main concerns in ecological monitoring are biased results, which may result for many reasons. When using VES (visual encounter survey) methods we must make several assumptions which may or may not hold true; i.e. that every individual is equally conspicuous, each individual is equally likely to be observed during each sampling session and that each individual is recorded only once. The latter two may be minimized through sampling at similar times of the year and under similar weather conditions and keeping track of individuals so as not to record multiple recounts. Another concern is that observers will most likely have different search images for target species. Therefore, the quality and consistency of information gathered by volunteers is also a source of potential bias. To reduce this source of bias, all volunteers will be trained in field techniques and spotlighting methods before actual surveys begin.
Volunteer Assignments
The gathering of scientific data is an often monotonous and boring process. We will spend hours on end in the field under hot and humid conditions adhering to rigid protocol. What, you thought this was going to be a relaxing holiday? Each volunteer will be assigned a duty during surveys. Tasks are as follows:
- Data logger: This individual’s task is in recording all environmental variables, specimen data and keeping note of time.
- Instrument Reader: This individual’s task is in gathering all environmental variables, specimen data and location and reporting them to the data logger.
- Assistant Spotter: This individual has the task of assisting the primary spotter in systematically scanning the survey site for eyeshine and in directing the boat captain through the habitat to each spotted individual.
- Miscellaneous: many other small tasks will be assigned as needed.
American Crocodile Survey Specifics
Introduction
American Crocodile Survey 2009 Research Proposal (PDF document)
Survey Itinerary
Volunteer Training
Waiver of Liability
Suggested Reading and References