Improved genotyping and sequencing success rates for North American river otter (Lontra canadensis)

Genetic analysis of non-invasively collected fecal samples has become an important monitoring tool in wildlife management and population and conservation genetics. However, these samples are often difficult to obtain for bioindicator species such as river otters (Lontra canadensis). Moreover, DNA extraction and genotyping success rates have often been low in this species. In this technical note, alternate means of collecting fecal DNA samples at river otter latrine sites are described. Using a modified fecal swabbing protocol and a DNA lysis buffer solution, we were able to increase genotyping success rates to ≥ 69% at 9/11 loci. The increased success rate now renders this protocol a more cost-efficient and reliable method for generating population level data in this species.