Release programs

• Hard release - releasing individuals with no post-release support

  e.g. species who's behaviour is controlled by instinct such as insects, fish, amphibians and reptiles
• Soft release - releasing individuals with post-release support

  e.g. a gradual release into larger areas with food provided for mammals and birds
• Key features of successful release programmes:

  • large enough suitable habitat
  • reliable food supplies
  • low predation risk
  • suitable breeding sites
  • water
  • support of the local human population
  • official support e.g. legal protection
• Methods to increase success of release programs:

  • only release healthy individuals - health checks before and after they are released and vaccines administered
  • increase habitat are over time to allow them to acclimatise to the area and find resources such as food and water
  • teach foraging techniques before they are released so they can find food for themselves
  • teach them how to avoid predators
  • engage with the local community to reduce threats