Data from: Wildlife detection dogs effectively survey a terrestrial amphibian, but differ among individuals, weather and habitat

The endangered natterjack toad (Epidalea calamita) faces ongoing habitat
loss, requiring effective conservation measures. Field surveys must
therefore address their highly variable detectability in terrestrial
habitats. We investigated the factors influencing capture success
comparing two methods: artificial cover boards (ACB) and wildlife
detection dogs (WDD). We first analysed environmental and training factors
influencing toad detectability for four detection dogs with varying
experience using a binomial generalized linear model (GLM). Then, we
compared capture success of ACBs and WDD transects (deploying two dogs)
considering weather and habitat type using negative binomial
GLMs. Across 200 tests, each detection dog displayed a unique
learning curve, with performance influenced mainly by dog behaviour, wind,
test blindness and insect presence. Detection rates across dogs levelled
off at 87.2 % (75.7 % – 94.8 %). Capture success of both methods
under real-deployment conditions was separately analysed for juvenile and
(sub-)adult toads by calculating a success rate. For juvenile toads,
capture success was primarily influenced by capture method, habitat type
and study year, while adult toads capture success mainly depended on
habitat type and precipitation. Overall, WDDs (mean rate juvenile toads =
4.15, mean rate adult toads = 5.61) showed higher success rates than ACBs
(mean rate juvenile toads = 0.51, mean rate adult toads = 4.73),
particularly in dense and versatile habitats. This study provides
practical guidance for the selection and implementation of survey methods
for E. calamita, identifying critical factors to consider when designing a
study to maximise survey success. Dog handlers should be able to adapt
search and training strategies to their dogs’ individual pace and
limitations and keep environmental influences in mind. Both ACBs and WDDs
are suitable methods for detecting E. calamita in terrestrial habitats,
however, detection dogs are particularly useful in densely vegetated
areas, for finding juveniles and for covering larger regions more
efficiently. Success rates for adult toads increase in favourable habitat
and climatic conditions, such as warmer temperatures and sufficient
moisture. Our findings provide a framework that may be extended to the
monitoring and conservation of other amphibian species.