Mark-Recapture Estimates with Emigration and Re-Immigration

A technique is outlined for analysing mark-recapture data from an animal population in which individuals may emigrate from the study area and later return. Maximum likelihood estimates of population parameters are calculated. Likelihood ratio tests are used to examine whether re-immigration is actually occurring, and, if not, whether there is any emigration or mortality. An example of the use of this technique is presented and potential limitations and extensions are considered.