Methodology for Maintaining Observer Independence in Aerial Strip Transect Surveys

January 1, 1998

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We describe the internal communication systems and data recording protocol used for aerial strip transect surveys of polar bears (Ursus maritimus) conducted in the Beaufort Sea in June 1994. The communication system permitted 4 observers and a pilot to independently communicate bear sightings to a data recorder. This method allowed us to estimate the proportion of animals missed on the inside edge of the survey strip and within the survey strip. We discuss the effectiveness of our methods and their applicability to other aerial surveys.

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