Habitat selection and abundance of common genets Genetta genetta using camera capture-mark-recapture data

Using camera-trapping techniques, the present study, conducted from 2005 to 2007, provides common genet abundance estimates in Serra da Malcata Nature Reserve (central-eastern Portugal). We estimated genet abundance using the software CAPTURE. It was possible to obtain a capture success of 1.49 captures/100 trap-nights. Considering the heterogeneity model (Mh ), which presents higher biological significance, the estimated density varied between 0.50 (95% CI = 0.43–0.56 genets/km 2 ) to 0.92 (95% CI = 0.87–0.97 genets/km 2 ) genets/km 2 with an average density value of 0.70 genets/km 2 (95% CI = 0.58– 0.82 genets/km 2 ). These estimates emphasized this technique as a reliable method for assessing average genet density over large spatial scales and for monitoring future changes in genet numbers. In terms of habitat selection, genets selected Quercus rotundifolia and Arbutus unedo woodlands and avoided Erica spp. and Cistus ladanifer scrubland and Eucalyptus stands. Considering the landscape heterogeneity outside the reserve, our study emphasizes the importance of the protected area for small carnivore conservation.