Comparing local ecological knowledge with camera trap data to study mammal occurrence in anthropogenic landscapes of the Garden Route Biosphere Reserve

Abstract

Accurate information on wildlife occurrence in anthropogenic landscapes is essential to develop effective conservation measures. Monitoring multiple mammal species in heterogeneous landscapes can be challenging because of the diversity of land-uses and species behaviors. Therefore, different monitoring methods are better adapted to different contexts. We compared data obtained from camera traps with data gathered through an online survey to document the presence of mammal species in mosaic landscapes of the Garden Route Biosphere Reserve in South Africa. The survey detected the same 15 species as the camera traps as well as the additional common duiker. Both methods effectively detected most large mammal species, whereas results were less consistent for smaller species and carnivores. Combining the two methods enabled us to produce more robust estimates of species absence and confirm species presence reported by survey respondents. In less disturbed areas, respondents with good ecological knowledge were effective at monitoring mammal species, while extending the spatial coverage of the study. Bearing in mind the limitations of each method, camera traps and an online survey could complement each other if combined. Together, they can provide a more comprehensive understanding of mammal communities in anthropogenic landscapes, increasing both spatial coverage and the number of species sightings.