Re-introduction of native species

Re-introductions are an increasingly popular part of species conservation programmes. In an attempt to impose some order into what could become chaos, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) devised a set of guidelines in 1995.

We endorse these guidelines and will assess all re-introduction proposals against them.

Below is a bullet point summary

Introduction

• Re-introductions are always lengthy, complex and expensive

Feasibility

• The species must be shown to have been previously present in the region
• After re-establisment the species should be self maintaining
• There needs a sound knowledge of the species natural history
• There should be an understanding of the likely ecological effects
• The re-introduction should be modeled to predict its outcome
• A Population Viability Analysis should be done

Appropriateness

• Suitable sites with good habitat within the former range must exist
• The cause of the original extinction must be identified and eliminated

Provenance

• Re-introduced animals should be of the same or similar genetic stock
• Re-introduced animals must not endanger the status of source populations
• Re-introduced animals should be free of pathogens and screened by a vet
• Re-introduced animals from captive stock must have been appropriately reared
• Captive stock must be able to adapt behaviourally

Socio-economic

• The project should have long-term financial and political support
• There should be a cost-benefit analysis for the local human population
• Local attitudes should be assessed as re-introductions should have local support
• There needs to be government support
• Risks to life and property need to be assessed and accepted

Releasing

• Pre- and post release monitoring is needed
• There needs to be a proper release strategies with veterinary supervision
• There needs to be a public relations programme
• There should be a scientific evaluation which is later published

Current, recent and proposed re-introductions

Sea eagle. Golden eagle. Red kite. Goshawk. Eagle owl. Black grouse. Water vole. Beaver. Wild boar. Pine marten.