In situ feeding as a new management tool to conserve orphaned Eurasian lynx (lynx lynx). Issue 7 (2nd March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Premier, Joe; Gahbauer, Martin; Leibl, Franz; Heurich, Marco
• Is Part Of: Ecology and evolution. Volume 11:Issue 7(2021)
• Page Start: 2963
• Page End: 2973
• Publication Date: 2021-03-02
• Subjects: carrion -- conservation management -- large carnivore conservation -- orphan juvenile -- species reintroduction -- supplementary feeding; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution -- Periodicals; 577.05
• DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7261
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-7758

Abstract

Abstract: High human‐caused mortality due to wildlife‐vehicle‐collisions and illegal killing leads to frequent cases of orphaned Eurasian lynx juveniles. Under natural conditions, this would result in starvation of the young. To avoid this, wildlife managers conventionally rear animals in captivity and release them later. However, this measure is an undesirable outcome for species conservation, managers, and animals alike. Increased awareness of Eurasian lynx orphaned by human‐caused mortality means managers must often intervene in endangered populations. In this study, we report for the first time a successful case of in situ feeding designed to avoid captivity of two orphaned Eurasian lynx. We exposed 13 roe deer and 7 red deer carcasses in the field to successfully support two orphans to the age of independence and confirm dispersal from the natal range. We present this management approach as a feasible and complimentary tool that can be considered in small or isolated large carnivore populations where every individual counts toward population viability. Abstract : The topic of orphaned juvenile Eurasian lynx is one of growing importance. Given the high rates of human‐caused mortality of Eurasian lynx, especially in Central Europe's anthropogenic landscapes, large carnivore managers must frequently deal with orphans. It is necessary to intervene in order to conserve individuals but the options available to managers besides conventional captive rearing have been relatively unexplored. We describe how two juvenile Eurasian lynx became orphaned and could be supported for 5 months to independence age via in situ provisioning of deer carcasses, thus avoiding human contact and captivity. We also confirmed dispersal from the natal range and the success of this method.