Evaluation of translocation criteria: case study with trumpeter swans (Cygnus buccinator)

Translocations are a common conservation technique; however, the feasibilit y and success of translocations are evaluated rarely. We translocated 57 tr umpeter swans (Cygnus buccinator) from Idaho to Utah during 1996 to encoura ge migration to more southern wintering areas. We evaluated the feasibility and success of the translocation by studying biological and socio-politica l criteria prior to and during the translocation. Lack of support from gove rnmental and non-governmental agencies did not allow additional translocati ons in subsequent years. Additional releases are needed, however, to increa se the probability of swan returns to the release area. Our evaluation expl ores the possibility that trumpeter swans may be more vulnerable to hunting than tundra swans (Cygnus columbianus); however, we still lack conclusive empirical evidence that shows a negative effect of tundra swan hunting on t he survival of trumpeter swans migrating through Utah. Finally, some elemen ts of the local public have been negatively impacted by the translocation o wing to restrictions imposed on tundra swan hunting and season closures. To ensure the success of trumpeter swan translocations planned as early as th e year 2000, all translocation criteria need to be supported before as well as during the translocation. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights res erved.