The effect of demographic characteristics on the success of ungulate re-introductions
-
Published source details
Komers P.E. & Curman G.P. (2000) The effect of demographic characteristics on the success of ungulate re-introductions. Biological Conservation, 93, 187-193.
Published source details Komers P.E. & Curman G.P. (2000) The effect of demographic characteristics on the success of ungulate re-introductions. Biological Conservation, 93, 187-193.
Actions
This study is summarised as evidence for the following.
| Action | Category | |
|---|---|---|
|
Translocate to re-establish or boost populations in native range Action Link |
 |
-
Translocate to re-establish or boost populations in native range
A worldwide review of 33 studies (Komers & Curman 2000) found that translocating ungulates (Artiodactyla) to re-establish populations in their native range was more successful when larger numbers of animals were released, and small populations grew faster if they contained more mature individuals and had an equal ratio of males and females. All 10 translocated populations of ≥20 animals increased in number (by an average of 17%), whereas six of 23 translocated populations with ≤20 animals decreased. Small translocated populations (≤20 animals) were more likely to increase if they contained more mature individuals (females ≥3 years of age; males ≥5 years) and had an equal sex ratio (data reported as statistical model results). Analyses included 33 re-introduction studies involving nine ungulate species (including sheep, goats, elk, bison, reindeer and gazelle). Groups of 2–69 wild-caught animals were released within their native range and observed over 3–9 years (locations not reported). Studies were published (between 1959 and 1998) and unpublished (dates not reported).
(Summarised by: Anna Berthinussen)
