Modelling and computer simulations of post-release movements of European Lynx species to improve decision-making and success of conservation translocations

ended

Conservation translocations (CT) assist to restore populations of relevant animal species for ecosystem and biodiversity enhancement, such as the two emblematic species of lynx in Europe: the Eurasian and the Iberian lynx. Often, CT show partial success due to multiple environmental and local human factors. Moreover, the selection of release sites is mostly based on expert knowledge and habitat selection analyses of animals in their source environment. Critical to improving release site selection methods is the use of empirical information from the observed post-release behaviour of already translocated lynxes. Using cutting-edge animal movement analyses and computational simulations in the context of conducted reintroduction programs of the Eurasian and the Iberian lynx in Slovenia and Spain, respectively, this project will assist to improve decision-making on release site and CT success. It will 1) model the post-release behavioural states of both reintroduced Eurasian lynxes and Iberian lynxes (prior to settling) and how they are related to environmental and human factors; and 2) produce ‘LynxOnTheMove’, a software to simulate and predict optimal release site scenarios. This multidisciplinary research will combine geospatial methods, reintroduction science, conservation biology, and animal ecology and behaviour. The fellow has outstanding experience and expertise in these fields obtained in New Zealand and Europe, which in conjunction with the expertise of Miha Krofel (action supervisor) in carnivore ecology and conservation will ensure a valuable transfer of knowledge and enable me to carry out research that will have an impact for Europe. Findings will be openly disseminated in scientific publications, conferences, seminars, workshops, and general publications and the media. Thus, scientists, stakeholders, the general public will all greatly benefit. This action will provide the fellow with greatly valuable training to become an independent researcher.