RDSURVIV- computes parameter estimates of survival and capture probability and temporary emigration using models described in ''Estimating Temporary Emigration using Capture-recapture Data with Pollock's Robust''

Program RDSURVIV (Robust-Design-SURVIVal analysis) computes parameter estimates of survival and capture probability and temporary emigration using models described in ''Estimating Temporary Emigration using Capture-recapture Data with Pollock's Robust'' (Kendall et. al., 1997). Actually, RDSURVIV is a specially modified version of Dr. G. White's program SURVIV (White, 1983) which incorporates the robust-design models. With this program and it's companion program, CNVRDSRV, users are able to get parameter estimates for these complex models from capture-history data without having to specify the cell probabilities. This program/method should be used in cases where a significant portion of the sampled population is unavailable for capture during some of the sampling periods. Ignoring the situation by using standard open model Jolly-Seber analysis will result in biased estimates of population size and capture probability. For example, if the trapping area only allows the capture of breeders, then the animals which are non-breeders in a particular sample are ''temporary emigrants'' for that sample since their probability of capture is zero.