2. Conservation Of Biodiversity - Methods: Caprive Breeding And Release Programmes

Question 1

What are the key features of successful release programmes? (8)

Answer 1

1. The number of individuals released much be sufficient to establish a viable population

Suitable release sites must provide:

2. Large enough suitable habitat
3. Reliable food supplies
4. Low predation risk
5. Suitable breeding sites
6. Water
7. Support of the local human population
8. Official support, for example, legal protection of the habitat and species

Question 2

What are the two different forms of release?

Answer 2

1. Soft release

2. Hard release

Question 3

What is hard release?

Answer 3

This involves releasing individuals with no post-release support. It usually involves species where behaviour is controlled by instinct so that the individuals do not need to learn survival skills, for example, insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles.

Question 4

What is soft release?

Answer 4

This involves post-release support such as gradual release into larger areas and the provision of food as they learn now to find food for themselves. This is often necessary for the release of mammals and birds.

Question 5

What are the problems faced by released individuals? (5)

Answer 5

1. Finding and recognising food
2. Recognising poisonous foods
3. Developing hunting skills
4. Recognising and avoiding predators
5. Being accepted into the social groups of the wild populations