Saving the Dinaric lynx: multidisciplinary monitoring and stakeholder engagement support large carnivore restoration in human-dominated landscape

Abstract

Translocations are central to large carnivore restoration efforts, but inadequate monitoring often inhibits effective conservation decision-making. Extinctions, reintroductions, poaching and high inbreeding levels of the Central European populations of Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) typify the carnivore conservation challenges in the Anthropocene. Recently, several conservation efforts were initiated to improve the genetic and demographic status, but were met with variable success. Here, we report on a successful, stakeholder-engaged translocation effort to reinforce the highly-inbred Dinaric lynx population and create a new stepping-stone subpopulation in the Southeastern Alps. We used multidisciplinary and internationally-coordinated monitoring using systematic camera- trapping, non-invasive genetic sampling, GPS-tracking of translocated and remnant individuals, recording of reproductive events and interspecific interactions, as well as the simultaneous tracking of the public and stakeholders support of carnivore conservation before, during and after the translocation process across the three countries. Among the 22 translocated wild-caught Carpathian lynx, 68% successfully integrated into the population and local ecosystems and at least 59% reproduced. Probability of dispersing from the release areas was 3-times lower when soft-release rather than hard-release method was used. Translocated individuals had lower natural mortality, higher reproductive success and similar ungulate kill rates compared to the remnant lynx. Cooperation with local hunters and protected area managers enabled us to conduct multi-year camera-trapping and non-invasive genetic monitoring across a 12,000-km2 transboundary area. Results indicate a reversal in population decline, as the lynx abundance increased for >40% during the 4-year translocation period. Effective inbreeding decreased from 0.32 to 0.08-0.19, suggesting a 2- to 4-fold increase in fitness. Furthermore, successful establishment of a new stepping-stone subpopulation represents an important step towards restoring the Central European lynx metapopulation. Robust partnerships with local communities and hunters coupled with transparent communication helped maintain high public and stakeholder support for lynx conservation throughout the translocation process. Lessons learned about the importance of stakeholder involvement and multidisciplinary monitoring conducted across several countries provide a successful example for further efforts to restore large carnivores in human-dominated ecosystems.