Adams, J.R., Kelly, B.T. & Waits, L.P. Using faecal DNA sampling and GIS to monitor hybridization between red wolves (Canis rufus ) and coyotes (Canis latrans ). Molecular Ecology 12, 2175-2186 (2003).

This study used GIS to link spatial data collected on Red Wolves and Coyotes in northeastern North Carolina with non-spatial DNA data to create maps used to determine the presence of hybridization in the study area.  The authors utilized genetic-sequencing techniques that can identify an animal to species from scat samples collected in the field. By recording GPS waypoints at each scat collection site and projecting these onto GIS layers of the study area and incorporated roadways, they could associate the home ranges of known Red Wolf individuals with each scat deposit.  By also associating the DNA species attribute to each scat, the authors were able to identify the home ranges of Red Wolf and Coyote hybrids and keep track of their numbers and whether additional hybridization was going on.  The authors were able to use the study to identify the home of a previously unknown hybrid individual and implement proper management plans, all in an unobtrusive manner involving no handling or trapping of the endangered Red Wolf individuals.  My thesis is also working on non-invasive mapping techniques for sensitive species.  This paper was very interesting because they are approaching their study with different techniques than my own, but working towards the same end result.