In the face of unprecedented biodiversity losses, effective strategies for the conservation of endangered species are urgently required. Among conservationists, there is almost universal agreement on the need for evidence-based management and for science that supports conservation decision-making. However, management of small populations remains primarily based on the application of experience without careful evaluation. Research at the Institute of Zoology provides the evidence-base and decision support to maximise the likelihood of small population recovery.
Our work is developing a more holistic understanding of small population recovery, including drivers of smallness and heightened extinction risk, conservation management solutions and the science to best support the selection and implementation of these solutions. Our research includes long-term studies of small populations; species reintroduction and conservation translocations; disease-risk analysis and management; conservation genetics; management decision-making and assessment of conservation outcomes. Our work aims to:
- Develop a holistic understanding of population recovery
- Provide exemplary case studies of science support to management
- Produce comparative reviews showing correlates of successful and failed recovery
- Share knowledge with the wider conservation community
