Some ecological considerations and computer-based approaches for the identification of potentially suitable release sites for reintroduction programmes

The suitability of sites proposed for reintroductions and translocations is fundamental to the success of such programmes. Site suitability needs to be considered at a range of spatial scales including: 1) broadscale bioclimatic suitability, 2) patch size and connectivity at a landscape scale, and 3) the appropriateness of key floristic and structural attributes within individual habitat patches. Selection of release sites may be enhanced by application of a range of computer-based ecological modelling approaches. These include the use of the climate analysis package, BIOCLIM, population viability analysis and geographic information systems. If analyses to identify suitable release sites are completed before the liberation of a target species, they may increase the probability success of translocation and reintroduction programmes. -from Author