Development of known-fate survival monitoring techniques for juvenile wild pigs (Sus scrofa)

摘要: Context Wild pigs are an invasive species linked to numerous negative impacts on natural and anthropogenic ecosystems in many regions of the world. Robust estimates juvenile wild pig survival needed improve population dynamics models facilitate management this economically ecologically important species. Despite critical knowledge gap, date no successful known-fate study piglet (<5 months age) has been conducted, due a lack appropriate method for Aims To aid locating tagging neonates, we piloted use vaginal implant transmitters (VITs) adult evaluated average retention times stud ear-tag transmitters, clip sutured epoxied harness surgically implanted monitor piglets. Methods We captured pregnant female them with VITs. tagged subsequently located neonates piglets traps aforementioned monitored determine feasibility each method. Key results VITs were effectively used location time parturition, allowing counting neonate pigs. Stud abdominal well retained by weighing ≥3kg, contrast other tested transmitters. Conclusions allowed monitoring pigs, although, these, may be more practical as they do not require field surgery Due their relatively large size, ear tag infeasible true (~1kg); however, application suitable upon development lighter-weight The transmitter attachment methods ineffective survival, poor Implications techniques will research into reproductive ecology studies mortality modelling evaluation cause-specific factors affecting these often-invasive animals.