I have a few long-term data sets, that were initially treated as juveniles and adults. I would like to merge certain data sets into a single INP file containing a covariate, which is straight forward. However my question is as follows:
Juvenile 10101010011 1;
Adult 10110000110 1;
Merged 10101010011 10;
10110000110 01;
What is the best way to code the encounter history for a Juvenile transitioning to adult?
Option A
10101010011 -10;
10101010011 01;
10110000110 01;
Option B
10101010011 -10;
00000000001 01;
10110000110 01;
Is one option better than the other? The best model in invariably constant high survival for both juveniles and adults. Based on the data to date there appears to be no difference in survival, outside of targeted adult harvest (based on tag returns), which makes me think Option A would be ok. Thank-you in advance.