Non-Invasive DNA Hair Sampling: Uses and Field Techniques seminar

• End Date: October 02, 2001
• City: Revelstoke, BC

Non-invasive DNA hair sampling has become an effective and practical method for collecting genetic samples from secretive wildlife species including Ursids, Felids, and Mustilids. Applications include population estimation, population fragmentation, connectivity, familial relatedness, and forensics. Use of genetic samples for scientific investigation or forensics requires collecting samples from wild animals and genetic analysis done in a lab.
The course consisted of a morning classroom session that addressed scientific questions, field techniques, sample storage, choosing a lab, and genetic concepts. In the afternoon field session participants learned how to set up and take down a barbed wire hair trap.

Instructor Michael Proctor has been using this technique for population estimation, fragmentation, and relatedness studies for the past six years.