To avoid repeated counting of individuals during an Odonate Transect Survey you can follow these strategies:Establish Clear Survey Routes: Define specific routes or areas for your survey. Clearly mark the boundaries and ensure surveyors know where to start and finish, reducing the chances of double-counting.Use Marking Techniques: If possible, mark the individuals you have counted without harming them. For example, you can use non-toxic, temporary markers like colored dots on wings. This way, you can identify previously counted individuals and avoid counting them again.Time Gaps Between Surveys: If conducting multiple surveys in the same area, introduce time gaps between surveys. Odonates are highly mobile, so waiting for a while can allow them to disperse, reducing the likelihood of recounting the same individuals.Record Environmental Conditions: Note down environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed. These conditions can affect odonate behavior. If conditions change significantly between surveys, it's less likely that the same individuals will be present.Train Surveyors: Properly train surveyors to recognize odonate species and avoid counting the same individuals multiple times. Training can enhance the accuracy of the survey results.Use Standardized Survey Methods: Adhere to standardized survey protocols and guidelines. Following established methods ensures consistency and helps in minimizing errors related to repeated counting.Employ Technology: Consider using technology like photography or video recording to capture the odonates during the survey. Later, you can review the recordings to confirm identifications and avoid double-counting.

Hello Meeher; John Emlen developed a survey method for sampling birds. You might find the paper useful.

Emlen, JT 1971. Population densities of birds derived from transect counts.

The Awk. 88(2): 323-342.

Best regards, Jim

Yes, I think 'Distance' Sampling takes repeated counting into account :)

Define a narrow transect width (e.g., 1-2 meters) to reduce the likelihood of counting the same individual multiple times.