Study

Testing restocking methods for an endangered species: effects of predator exclusion and vegetation cover on common hamster (Cricetus cricetus) survival and reproduction

  • Published source details Villemey A., Besnard A., Grandadam J. & Eidenschenck J. (2013) Testing restocking methods for an endangered species: effects of predator exclusion and vegetation cover on common hamster (Cricetus cricetus) survival and reproduction. Biological Conservation, 158, 147-154.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Release translocated mammals into fenced areas

Action Link 		Terrestrial Mammal Conservation
  1. Release translocated mammals into fenced areas

    A replicated, controlled study in 2010–2011 in 10 agricultural plots in Alsace, France (Villemey et al. 2013) found that survival rates and reproductive success of translocated common hamsters Cricetus cricetus were higher inside than outside fenced areas. Average reproductive success and weekly survival rates of translocated hamsters were higher inside (reproductive success: 0.44 litters/female; weekly survival: 89%) than outside fenced areas (reproductive success: 0.00 litters/female; weekly survival: 27%). Additionally, inside fenced areas, monthly survival was higher in wheat plots (harvested and unharvested wheat plots combined) than in alfalfa plots (61% vs 35%). The study was conducted in a 300-ha agricultural landscape, comprising small fields (ca. 0.75 ha) of multiple crops. In May 2010, a total of 14 hamsters were released in two batches into fenced plots and an equal number was released in two unfenced plots. Additionally, in May 2011, hamsters were released into two fenced plots each of harvested wheat (total 14 hamsters), unharvested wheat (total 14 hamsters) and mown alfalfa (total 14 hamsters). Animals were radio-tagged and released into artificial burrows. Fenced plots were surrounded by electrified wires located 10–100 cm above ground. Animals were located every 2–4 days in May–September by radio-tracking.

    (Summarised by: Ricardo Rocha)

Output references
What Works 2021 cover

What Works in Conservation

What Works in Conservation provides expert assessments of the effectiveness of actions, based on summarised evidence, in synopses. Subjects covered so far include amphibians, birds, mammals, forests, peatland and control of freshwater invasive species. More are in progress.

More about What Works in Conservation

Download free PDF or purchase
The Conservation Evidence Journal

The Conservation Evidence Journal

An online, free to publish in, open-access journal publishing results from research and projects that test the effectiveness of conservation actions.

Read the latest volume: Volume 21

Go to the CE Journal

Discover more on our blog

Our blog contains the latest news and updates from the Conservation Evidence team, the Conservation Evidence Journal, and our global partners in evidence-based conservation.

Who uses Conservation Evidence?

Meet some of the evidence champions

Endangered Landscape ProgrammeRed List Champion - Arc Kent Wildlife Trust The Rufford Foundation Save the Frogs - Ghana Mauritian Wildlife Supporting Conservation Leaders
Sustainability Dashboard National Biodiversity Network Frog Life The international journey of Conservation - Oryx Cool Farm Alliance UNEP AWFA Bat Conservation InternationalPeople trust for endangered species Vincet Wildlife Trust
For a full list of, and information about, our champions:
All Evidence Champions
About our champions, why and how to become one:
Become an Evidence Champion

This website uses Cookies

We use limited Cookies to run the site and to analyse our traffic (none for site vendors). By using this site, you will be providing your consent to our use of Cookies.

Accept & continue