 Reference Base  Adaptations of physiology and behaviour in reintroduced z... |
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Boeer, M., 1998. Adaptations of physiology and behaviour in reintroduced zooborn specimens of two large mammals, the European lynx (Lynx lynx) and the white rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum). Advances in Ethology 33: 78
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| Location: |
Africa - Southern Africa - Namibia |
| Subject: |
Translocation - Methods |
| Species: |
White Rhino |
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Release of zoo animal in wild. The rhino released in Etosha National Park. Animal transfers from captivity to release sites were performed by aircraft and road vehicle. Soft release methods were essential to reverse possible adaptations of wildcaught specimens to captivity. Prior to release individuals were given time to gather optical, acoustic and olfactory information about the local fauna within suitable habitat in adaptation enclosures situated away from public areas. Diets were changed from zoo rations to natural food. A few days before release animals were equipped with radio-transmitters (rhino: Telonics radio collars, Lotec GPS 1000 telemetric horn implant).
Within 12 days after release the rhino established a territory in excellent habitat within the home range of a breeding partner after travelling over 120 km. Formerly tame, it did not allow humans to approach any more. Individuals carefully selected for such projects with regard to suitable age, sex, and individual family history may develop increased social and territorial motivation thus aiding adaptational processes.
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