Population Abundance and Genetic Structure of Black Bears in Coastal North Carolina and Virginia Using Noninvasive Genetic Techniques
We investigated population densities and genetic structure of black bears at three national wildlife refuges (Great Dismal Swamp [GDSNWR], Pocosin Lakes [PLNWR], and Alligator River [ARNWR]). We derived density estimates from DNA samples collected noninvasively at each refuge for two consecutive summers. Hair samples were analyzed for individual identification using 6-7 microsatellite markers. Estimated densities were some of the highest reported in the literature and ranged from 0.56-0.63 bears/km2 at GDSNWR to 0.65-1.12 bears/km2 at ARNWR to 1.23-1.66 bears/km2 at PLNWR. Sex ratios were...
