Study

Evaluation of 2 soft-release techniques to reintroduce black bears

  • Published source details Eastridge R. & Clark J.D. (2001) Evaluation of 2 soft-release techniques to reintroduce black bears. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 29, 1163-1174.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Release translocated/captive-bred mammals at a specific time (e.g. season, day/night)

Action Link 		Terrestrial Mammal Conservation
  1. Release translocated/captive-bred mammals at a specific time (e.g. season, day/night)

    A study in 1995–1999 in a forested area of Kentucky and Tennessee, USA (Eastridge & Clark 2001) found that black bears Ursus americanus translocated during winter had higher survival rates and settled closer to the release area than did bears translocated in summer. First-year post-release survival of winter-released bears (88%) was higher than that of summer-released bears (20%). Winter-released bears remained closer to release sites during the two weeks after emergence from dens (0.4–3.6 km) than did summer-released bears during the two weeks after release (1.1–15.8 km). Eight adult female bears (five with 13 cubs in total and three assumed to be pregnant) were translocated to artificial dens in a 780-km2 study area in January–March 1996 and March 1997. Six adult female bears were released in June–August 1996, following two weeks in acclimation pens at release sites. Bears were radio-tracked daily on release, reducing gradually to twice/week, until December 1999. Post-release survival was calculated with emigration included within mortality.

    (Summarised by: Casey Johnson)

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