A FEASIBILITY STUDY OF REINTRODUCING WILD BOAR SUS SCROFA TO SCOTLAND- ARE EXISTING WOODLANDS LARGE ENOUGH TO SUPPORT MINIMUM VIABLE POPULATIONS

The feasibility of reintroducing wild boar Sus scrofa to Scotland was investigated through the identification of a minimum viable population (MVP) and an assessment of suitable woodland habitat that could suppo rt such an MVP. A population viability analysis was performed, using t he VORTEX software to establish an MVP. The sensitivity of the results to alternative modelling strategies was tested. An initial population of 300 individuals had a probability >0.95 of surviving 50 years, and was identified as the MVP. Supplementation of the population with unr elated individuals was also simulated, and a range of strategies model led. With a supplementation level of four animals every 5 years the MV P was reduced to just 10 animals. Based on a review of Sus scrofa ecol ogy, woodland habitats suitable for supporting wild boar were identifi ed Only woodlands containing some stands of semi-natural origin were c onsidered. The suitability of the three largest woodlands for supporti ng an MVP was further reviewed at site level. None could be considered optimum habitat for wild boar and none was large enough to support an MVP of 300 animals. The study conducted that the goal of establishing a self-sustaining population of wild boar in Scotland is unrealistic in the short term. Management options that would support a reintroduct ion programme are discussed. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.