This page provides a list of reference material related to distance sampling, including links to material that is freely available online. Distance sampling is a widely used group of methods for estimating the population size or density of wildlife populations. For an overview of the methods, see the Encyclopedia of Environmetrics article listed below.
If you have any suggestions for other material, please contact Len Thomas (len at mcs.st-and.ac.uk).
Introduction to Distance Sampling.
Published July 2001.
This book introduces the suite of survey methods known as 'distance
sampling', which aim to estimate the population size and/or density of
biological populations. It updates the 1993 book, Distance Sampling
(see below). Please follow the above link for more information
about the book and an online preview.
Advanced Distance Sampling.
Published September 2004. (Paperback edition published September
2007.)
This book addresses new and more advanced methodologies, new
technologies and recent developments in statistical theory, and is the
follow up companion to Introduction to Distance Sampling. It is
an edited volume, with each
chapter being written by leading experts in the field. Please
follow the above link for more information about the book, a list of known
errors, and an online
preview.
Distance Sampling. First published 1993.
This was the first comprehensive treatment of the subject. It has been
superseded by the new Introduction to Distance Sampling, and
is no longer available in printed form. However, electronic versions
are still available for download over the internet at the following sites:
An "extensive but not exhaustive" bibliography of distance sampling related references some of which can be downloaded
Non-technical introduction to distance sampling, published in Sept 2009 issue of Significance magazine, by T. Marques
Download article (pdf file)
Go to Significance web site.
Encyclopedia of Statistical Sciences article on distance sampling, by Marques et al. 2011.
Download article (pdf file)
Go to a copy of the article (html) at the Encyclopedia of Statistical Sciences web site.
StatProb online Encyclopedia article on conventional distance sampling, by Marques et al. 2011.
Online article (html), at publisher's web site
Encyclopedia of Environmetrics article on distance sampling, by Thomas et al. 2002.
Download article (pdf file)
Estimating Pronghorn Abundance Using Aerial Line Transect
Sampling. by R. J. Guenzel, 1997. Wyoming Game and Fish Department,
Cheyenne. 176pp.
This manual provides a detailed description of survey design, field
methods and analysis that would be of use to anyone contemplating aerial
line transect surveys.
Related book: Estimating Animal Abundance - Closed Populations.
This site is hosted by
Research Unit for Wildlife Population
Assessment