Question

You catch, mark, and release 100 squirrels on NC State campus. A week later, you trap 200 squirrels; 20 have the previous marks. What is the estimated size of squirrels on NC State's campus?

1) 100
2) 250
3) 500
4) 750
5) 1000
6) 2000
7) 5000

Answer 1

Using the mark and recapture method with an initial capture of 100 squirrels and a recapture of 200 squirrels, which included 20 marked individuals, the estimated squirrel population size on NC State's campus is approximately 1000.

Step-by-step explanation:

Estimating Squirrel Population Size

The question involves using the mark and recapture method to estimate the number of squirrels on NC State campus. Initially, 100 squirrels were marked and released. Later, a sample of 200 squirrels was captured, and it included 20 previously marked squirrels. To estimate the total population size (N), the following equation can be used:

Number of marked individuals in the first catch (M) x Total number of individuals in the second catch (C)divided by

Number of recaptured marked individuals (R).

In this case, the formula would be 100 x 200 divided by 20, which equals 1000. Therefore, the estimated squirrel population size on NC State's campus is approximately 1000 individuals.

It is important to consider the limitations of the mark and recapture method. Some animals may learn to avoid traps or may be more likely to be retrapped, affecting the accuracy of the estimate. Additionally, the marking process should not harm the animals' chances of survival.

Understanding the distribution of the individuals within the population can provide further insight into the population's characteristics and habitat use, aiding in effective management and conservation efforts.