Analysis of capture-recapture models with individual covariates using data augmentation

Biometrics. 2009 Mar;65(1):267-74. doi: 10.1111/j.1541-0420.2008.01038.x. Epub 2008 Apr 16.

Abstract

I consider the analysis of capture-recapture models with individual covariates that influence detection probability. Bayesian analysis of the joint likelihood is carried out using a flexible data augmentation scheme that facilitates analysis by Markov chain Monte Carlo methods, and a simple and straightforward implementation in freely available software. This approach is applied to a study of meadow voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus) in which auxiliary data on a continuous covariate (body mass) are recorded, and it is thought that detection probability is related to body mass. In a second example, the model is applied to an aerial waterfowl survey in which a double-observer protocol is used. The fundamental unit of observation is the cluster of individual birds, and the size of the cluster (a discrete covariate) is used as a covariate on detection probability.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anseriformes
  • Arvicolinae
  • Bayes Theorem*
  • Cluster Analysis
  • Markov Chains
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Observation*
  • Probability*
  • Software