Ecological Census Techniques: A Handbook

by William J. Sutherland (Editor)

Virtually any exercise in ecology will require some knowledge of the techniques for carrying out a census of population numbers. This practical text outlines clearly, with worked examples, the main techniques used by field ecologists to enumerate plants and animals. Contributors treat each taxonomic group separately, with detailed descriptions of appropriate census methods; their advantages, disadvantages, and biases. Techniques for measuring a wide range of environmental variables are also included. The final chapter lists the twenty most common censusing sins. Concise yet comprehensive, this book provides a unique overview of the most important methods for those working on field studies in population and behavioral ecology and conservation biology at all levels, from the beginner to the practicing professional.

Genres: Ecology, Reference, Biology, Nonfiction

352 pages, Hardcover

First published March 29, 1996

Reviews

[Sam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a comprehensive and accessible guide to the many varied techniques for undertaking surveys for general biodiversity levels and for specific habitats and species. Sutherland runs through the basis of each technique, the best situations to apply them and the limitations and constraints, all in his usual clear and easy to follow approach. Even the statistical side of things is surprisingly easy to follow, although I did still need to read those bits a few times before it sunk in (stats have never been my strong point).