The causes of the low breeding success of European mink (Mustela lutreola) in captivity.

摘要: High among-individual variation in mating success often causes problems conservation breeding programs. This is also the case for critically endangered European mink and may jeopardize long-term maintenance of species' genetic diversity under EEP Program. In this study, wild captive born minks at Tallinn Zoological Garden are compared, behavior males analyzed. Results show that successfully mate significantly more than (89% 35%, respectively). On basis an extensive record attempts, both male aggressiveness passivity identified as primary observed failures. All other potential determinants have only a minor role. Mating well male's shown to depend strongly on female partner. We did not find any evidence individual dependent identity its suggest two expressions abnormal brought about by growing up captivity: same individuals likely display aggressive passive behavior. The results point need study modify conditions management procedures reduce negative impact environment goals program. Zoo Biol. 32:387–393, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals Inc.