Further evaluation of the genetic consequences of translocations on southeastern white-tailed deer populations

Restocking programs were significant components of initiatives that restore d white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) populations to the southeaster n United States. However, past studies have reached conflicting conclusions regarding the effectiveness and consequences of translocations on the gene tic structure of southeastern deer. We conducted further analysis of publis hed datasets via matrix comparison methods to resolve these differences. Ou r analysis suggests translocations have had substantial and persistent effe cts on the genetic composition of deer populations into which translocated individuals were released. Regional and long-distance translocations influe nced local populations by reducing the relationship between genetic differe ntiation and geographic distance among populations,and concordance between patterns of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and allozyme variation. Strong associ ations of geographic and genetic distance among populations not directly re ceiving restocked deer indicate the genetic contributions of translocations are localized due to limited dispersal. Coastal island populations may war rant additional protective measures because they retain much of the histori c genetic structure of southeastern white-tailed deer and may represent res ervoirs of unique genetic material.