Subsequently, animals are recaptured or resighted during “capture” occasions that can be over weeks or decades. Population size and life history parameters of groups of wild animals can be estimated from as few as two visits to the study area over time.

The organisers of the workshop, Dr Nico de Bruyn and Dr Simon Elwen from the department of Zoology and Entomology - Mammal Research Institute – said that the MRI is proud to host Dr Trent McDonald in South Africa, and in so doing to assist with the development of local scientists and wildlife practitioners.

“Such a workshop exposes wildlife biologists, scientists and conservationists to cutting-edge research. It allows for interactive development of relevant skills and therefore such individuals can go ahead and make an educated impact their respective fields”, said Dr de Bruyn.