IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Vargas, A.; Sim¢n, M.A.; Aymerich, M.; Mart¡nez, F.; S nchez, I.; Godoy, J.A.; Rold n, E.; Delibes, M.; Breitenmoser, U. | |
| The Design of Ex-situ Programs for Endangered Species Conservation: The Iberian Lynx as a Recent Example | |
| 2007 Conference Proceeding | |
Endangered species ex-situ breeding programs are complex, expensive conservation tools that require extensive planning, organization, and integration into a broad recovery strategy. Such programs should not threaten on-going in-situ activities by competing for funding or taking away social relevance from in-situ conservation efforts. Although ex-situ programs often emerge as a response to a crisis situation, they should only be initiated based on feasibility, including the availability of adequate infrastructures, trained staff, and long-term administrative and financial support. In this presentation we will discuss general planning and implementation principles, using the recently established Iberian Lynx (_Lynx pardinus_) Conservation Breeding Program as an example. In general, planning must include establishing realistic and measurable goals, determining the number, origin, and placement of founders, identifying those responsible for program management and implementation, and addressing funding requirements. Other important aspects include genetic management, husbandry (nutrition, enrichment), reproduction, veterinary and health issues, potential reintroduction, and raining/education/outreach strategies. Ex-situ breeding programs should incorporate adaptive management schemes and use science to help understand the bases of success or failure and adapt accordingly. Although general planning principles might apply across taxa, each species should be carefully examined and adapted to incountry realities. |
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