Translocation and early post‐release demography of endangered Laysan teal

摘要: In an attempt to reduce the high extinction risk inherent small island populations, we translocated wild Laysan teal Anas laysanensis a portion of its presumed prehistoric range. Most avian translocations lack strategic post-release monitoring needed assess early population establishment or failure. Therefore, monitored survival and reproduction all founders, their first-generation offspring using radio telemetry for 2 years after first release. Forty-two were sourced directly from only extant on Island transported 2 days by ship Midway Atoll. All birds survived translocation with nutritional veterinary support, spent between 4 14 days in captivity. Post-release 42 founders was 0.857 (95% CI 0.86–0.99) during 2004–2006 annualized 0.92 0.83–0.98). Seventeen 18 founding hens attempted nesting two breeding seasons. Fledgling success 0.57 0.55–0.60) 2005 0.63 0.62–0.64) 2006. The effective female (Ne) 13. We applied these initial demographic rates model growth. nascent size increased >100 (λ=1.73). If this growth rate continues, could surpass source before 2010.