Behavioral profiles of the captive juvenile whooping crane as an indicator of post-release survival

Zoo Biology
6443_Kreger.pdf
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Abstract

Predation by bobcats (Lynx rufus) is the major cause of mortality in captive-reared whooping cranes (Grus americana) released into the wild to establish a nonmigratory flock in Florida. This study investigated whether rearing methods (parent-rearing, hand-rearing, or hand-rearing with exercise) of cranes, and behaviors observed in birds either before or shortly after release in the wild, are associated with survival after release. Rearing methods did not affect survival first year post-release, which was 55 ? 8% in 2 yr (1999 and 2000). Logistic regression revealed, however, that foraging bouts (+), walking bouts (-), and body weight (-) before release, and nonvigilant bouts (-) after release were significantly associated with survival. These results suggest that post-release survival of whooping cranes might be increased by rearing techniques that promote foraging.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Behavioral profiles of the captive juvenile whooping crane as an indicator of post-release survival
Series title Zoo Biology
Volume 25
Issue 1
Year Published 2006
Language English
Contributing office(s) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center
Description 11-24
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Zoo Biology
First page 11
Last page 24
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