Estimate population size of four species of mesocarnivore in delaware

The Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Region 5 awarded $523,976 to the State of Delaware, Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) on March 1, 2026, under the Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program (CFDA 15.611).

The award funds infrared camera surveys to estimate population size, abundance, and distribution of four mesocarnivore species statewide across Delaware. The intended beneficiaries are DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife biologists and land managers as well as the hunting and nonhunting public.

The University of Delaware serves as sub-recipient and is responsible for conducting the research and preparing summary reports. Performance runs through June 30, 2029, with all work performed in Delaware. The Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act funds this project through revenues collected from excise taxes on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment, apportioned annually to state fish and wildlife agencies by legislatively established formula.

Activities to be performed include conducing infrared camera surveys to estimate mesocarnivore populations and distributions statewide. Expected outcomes include estimating abundance and distribution of the four primary mesocarnivores found in delaware. Intended beneficiaries include the division of fish and wildlife biologists and land managers as well as the hunting and nonhunting public. Subrecipient activities include the university of delaware who will be responsible for conducting this research and preparing summary reports.