Translocation of overabundant species: implications for translocated individuals

Published source details Whisson D.A., Holland G.J. & Carlyon K. (2012) Translocation of overabundant species: implications for translocated individuals. Journal of Wildlife Management, 76, 1661-1669.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

	Action	Category
	Translocate mammals to reduce overpopulation Action Link

Translocate mammals to reduce overpopulation

A study in 2007–2008 of forest sites on an island and the mainland of southeastern Australia (Whisson et al. 2012) found that koalas Phascolarctos cinereusi translocated to reduce overpopulation had higher mortality than individuals in the source population. Six of 16 koalas (38%) that were sterilized and translocated died within 12 months of release, whereas none of 13 koalas in the source population died within the same time period. In April–May 2007, sixteen koalas (eight females; eight males) were surgically sterilized and translocated from an overpopulated island to the mainland. Release sites were 10-ha forest blocks dominated by rough-barked manna gum Eucalyptus viminalis. Released koalas were radio-collared and tracked daily for one week followed by weekly for seven weeks and monthly until June 2008. Thirteen unsterilized koalas (eight females; five males) belonging to the source population were radio-collared and tracked over the same period in 2007–2008.

(Summarised by: Anna Berthinussen)