Approximating the Poisson Scan and (λ-σ) acoustic detection model with a Random Search formula

► We develop a MATLAB simulation of area search with acoustic sensors. ► It uses the Poisson Scan model and the Lambda-Sigma (λ-σ) model. ► Detection time results are originated from the much simpler Random Search formula. ► Random Search was found to closely approximate the more complex models. ► Guidelines for selecting the Random Search detection range were developed.