Following severe decline, numbers of a species or sub-population can fall below the minimum required to maintain the probability of it persisting into the future. Small populations are particularly vulnerable for three reasons. Firstly, problems can result from loss of genetic variability, inbreeding and genetic drift; secondly, demographic fluctuations can occur from variations in birth and death rates; and thirdly, environmental changes can influence predation, competition, disease and food supply, as well as natural catastrophes such as fire, floods or drought. In these situations intervention is often required to prevent local or complete extinction. Through our population management work, we aim to ensure the persistence of small, vulnerable populations both in nature and in captivity by maintaining genetic diversity and demographic stability.

In Situ Population Management

Throughout our conservation programmes, we deal with remnant or fragmented populations of species. In some cases, causes of decline can be addressed through habitat management or other interventions resulting in increases in numbers to achieve a viable population. However, in other cases, work is required to link fragmented populations. Examples include translocations of rhinos between national parks in Zimbabwe or reintroduction and meta-population management of scimitar-horned oryx in Tunisia.

Ex situ Population Management

While the most efficient and effective means of conserving biodiversity is the management of biological communities in situ, many species require additional support. Through our work with ex situ populations, we directly manage populations of endangered species through cooperative captive breeding programmes, provide technical support to build wider capacity for this work and undertake research to inform population management.

Studies of populations in captivity can yield important information to support broader conservation goals. Our ex situ research focuses on key species and principles of population management to meet broader conservation goals. This includes understanding the influence of both large (population level) and small scale (husbandry) management decisions on the success of captive breeding programmes and our ability to maintain these small populations over time.

StudBook Downloads

• Scimitar horned oryx studbook 2007 (1mb, pdf)
• Grevy's zebra studbook 2007 (1 mb, pdf)
• Hartmann's mountain zebra studbook 2007 (800kb, pdf)