Practical Considerations for the Reintroduction of Large, Terrestrial, Mammalian Predators Based on Reintroductions to South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province

ABSTRACT

The expansion of conservation estate in South Africa has seen large predators increasingly reintroduced in order to restore ecological integrity, conserve threatened species and maximise tourism. Reintroductions occurred at fenced, ecotourism sites in South Africa’s Eastern Cape Province. Lion Panthera leo reintroduction began in 2000 and has been highly successful with a population of 56 currently extant in the region arising from 35 reintroduced individuals. The African wild dog Lycaon pictus population has increased to 24 from a founder population of 11. Reintroduction of spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta also appears successful, although reintroductions of leopards Panthera pardus and cheetahs Acinonyx jubatus have been less successful. Here we review the successes and failures of the reintroductions that have occurred in the region and describe recommendations to assist future translocations. Ecological attributes of each species affected the success with which they were reintroduced. Soft-release techniques, adequate fencing, appropriate socioeconomic environment, the order of predator reintroduction with subordinate species released prior to dominant ones, adequate prey base and adequate monitoring all improved the success of reintroductions. Carrying capacity for large predators is unknown and continued monitoring and, we fear, intensive management will be necessary in virtually all modern day conservation areas.

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