Population size estimation based on estimating functions for closed capture-recapture models

This paper explores a unified approach to inference on the size of a closed population using capture-recapture data where time, behavior or heterogeneity may affect the capture probabilities. The unifying idea is that of an optimal estimating function incorporating the notion of sample coverage. The proposed procedure generalizes the martingale estimating function approach (Lloyd, 1994, Biometrika, 81, 305-315) and also extends the sample coverage procedure (Lee and Chao, 1994, Biometrics, 50, 88-97). Results of a simulation study are reported to investigate the behavior of the proposed procedure. An example concerning captures of deer mice is given to illustrate the method. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. MSC: primary 62P10; secondary 62G05.