Appendix O: How to calculate integrity scores

Step-by-step instructions for generating integrity scores from public data.

I-scores need to be validated from public data. Accepted sources in order of preference are peer-reviewed research papers, academic theses, public datasets, expert opinion, and NGO/policy reports.

Many rare animals have poor documentation of their characteristics. Most projects will need to satisfy independent expert reviewers for the integrity scores they have decided to use. We have strong hopes that this science will become more standardized and open-source in the future. For now, we've established a database that experts are welcome to contribute to, to make the science and calculations on integrity scores more transparent and robust.

Basic protocols for integrity score research:

• Integrity scores range between 0 to 1.

• Species with scores of 1:

  • Species that are 'Critically Endangered' according to the global IUCN Red List or national/regional assessments can be listed as a 1.

  • Those documented not to occur with any level of disturbance or ecosytem degradation.

  • Documented apex predators.