Pre-release training, predator interactions and evidence for persistence of anti-predator behavior in reintroduced `alalā, Hawaiian crow

• DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01658
• Publication Date: 2021-06-01T16:46:51Z
• Authors: Alison L. Greggor; Bryce Masuda; Jacqueline M. Gau...; Jay T. Nelson; Thomas H. White; Debra M. Shier; Susan M. Farabaugh; Ronald R. Swaisgood
• Keywords: Paternal care

Animal translocations commonly fail due to predation after release, especially if animals are reared in human care, away from natural pressure. Anti-predator training can be a useful tool for combating the predator naivety of released animals, but its effective implementation requires attention numerous details. We present step-by-step development an anti-predator regime, tailored critically endangered `alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis). `Alalā last remaining corvid species Hawaiian islands, and historically level they experienced hawk, `io (Buteo solitarius) is unclear. However, one factor thought compromise outcomes earlier attempts reintroduce 1990′s was by `io, motivating recent releases. documented evidence what appears competent behavior conservation-bred `alalā, with range behavioral strategies coping observed during series controlled presentations `io-related stimuli. These responses included vigilance, alarm calling, mobbing experimental trials conducted release aviaries. Our results did not conclusively establish that learning occurred as result training, or produced enhanced survival. following `io-`alalā encounters were on more than 35 occasions, mirrored those pre-release, including first ever recorded interactions juvenile flocks wild. While it unclear extent which encouraged these species-appropriate responses, their occurrence suggests has retained express defensive strategies. By documenting design process, execution we highlight details other reintroduction programs may need consider when preparing alongside predators.