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Data Collection
Based on the sampling protocol set by CCCP (Long et al 2013), each installation should be left for a
month. The CCCP protocol called for servicing each camera at 2 weeks but this was primarily to reduce
the destruction of genetic samples collected at the trap. For CWMP purposes the scent lure should
persist for an entire month and the remote cameras used can easily function for 1 month.
At one month, return to the camera trap location and walk in front of the camera to trigger it and capture
the date and time of when you arrive on the site. Before disturbing the debris pile, remove the memory
card from the camera and review the images on it using a digital camera or devise designed to review
images from SD cards. If it appears you have captured images of a grizzly bear AND it was engaging in
rubbing behavior on a tree or debris pile in the trap area inspect these locations and see if it has left hair
in this location, carefully collect these genetic samples if possible following directions below. If not carry
on with camera trap disassembly.
Fill out the camera check datasheet completely. Use a stout stick to deconstruct and disperse the debris
pile. Avoid getting residual scent lure on hands or gear. Ensure that who ever is handling the remote
camera does not approach or deal with the debris pile in any way.
Genetic Sample Collection
Upon arrival at a remote camera trap for servicing or de-install, field teams should walk in front of the
camera to trigger it and capture an index photo which will note exact time of arrival and thus inform the
exact survey period the trap was operational. Before disassembling the site, crews should review all the
images stored on the memory card of the camera. For remote cameras without an image viewing
function, the card can be viewed by inserting it into a standard digital camera. If the review of images
reveals a potential grizzly bear has visited the site and its behavior included rubbing on the debris pile or
nearby trees, it may be possible to collect hairs from the animal.
Carefully inspect the areas the animal rubbed (as seen in the photographs). Scan the location from
several different angles as hairs may pop out more clearly depending on lighting and background. Every
effort should be made not to touch the hairs directly as this can contaminate them for DNA analysis.
Ideally a sterilized tweezers would be used to extract the hair(s). Deposit the hairs in a coin envelop
(included in field kits provided at trainings). Label the container clearly with the location, date,
coordinates, and your name (observer). Fill out a specimen collection datasheet.
