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Translocation of threatened or vulnerable species is a tool increasingly used for conservation and management. However, in some species, homing and movement behaviors may undermine the success of translocation efforts. For the federally protected Agassiz’s desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), translocation is a strategy used to manage declining populations, yet homing behavior in this species is poorly understood.
Research in the Lewison lab has been working to address this knowledge gap by explore homing behavior and movement patterns after translocation using an experimental approach. Working together with a team of scientists in collaboration with the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, Danna Hinderle conducted a translocation experiment in 2009-2010 to learn more about how homing and other movement behaviors can effect the likelihood of success of this strategy for the desert tortoise and other reptiles at risk of extirpation. To find out more about Danna's research, see her recent publication in the Journal of Wildlife Management |
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