Correcting for incomplete sighting in aerial surveys of kangaroos

Abstract

Kangaroo density estimates derived from aerial survey depend on the method of deriving sightability correction factors developed by Caughley. The method depends on five assumptions, some concerned with the mathematical properties of a model for sightability probabilities and others with deriving correction factors from this model. All these assumptions can be criticized. In addition, evidence on the performance of the method does not suggest that it is accurate. Published density estimates are less precise than indicated, and may include biases due to factors not considered in the correction factors used, e.g. seasonal conditions, time of day, and species differences. At present, no satisfactory alternative method of correction exists but, because inaccuracies may be large, continued use of the method requires much greater caution than has previously been shown. This is particularly relevant where density estimates are used to determine management procedures.