A methodological approach for non-invasive sampling for population size estimates in wild boars (Sus scrofa)

Composite microsatellite genotypes were determined at five loci from 35 tissue-sampled wild boars and used as reference genotypes to estimate both allelic drop-out rate and false allele rate in comparison to genotypes from scats and hair strands of the same animals. These rates allow to assess the genotyping reliability when only non-invasively collected material is available. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification from scats was often corrupted by inhibitors and worked poorly, whereas genotyping success in hair samples was high. Body region of hair origin had no influence on PCR suitability, whereas the type of hair had. We recommend the use of bristles. PCR conditions were optimized for single-hair (bristle) genotyping.