Context. Many conservation decisions rely on the assumption that multiple populations will respond similarly to management. However, few attempts have been made to evaluate correlated population responses to management or to identify traits that could be used to predict correlations. These assumptions are central to the use of the ‘population indicator-species concept’ (the idea that population trends of one species can be used as an index of trends in other species) for measuring the effects of key ecological drivers.

Aims. We investigated correlations among bird population trends in a mixed podocarp–hardwood forest in New Zealand in which introduced mammalian pests are controlled. We analysed trends in the abundance of 18 bird species (primarily passerines) over a 10-year period, using data from 5-min bird counts.

Methods. We used a Bayesian modelling approach to identify short-term correlations in population trends among species and to investigate whether ecological traits can be used to predict these correlated trends.

Key results. Population increases were detected in 9 of the 18 bird species over the 10-year period of the study. Population trends were correlated for 10% of species pairs (of which 81% were positive correlations). Correlations among seven of the nine species that increased in abundance were always positive; these species form a potential indicator pool. However, traits were not useful for predicting correlated population trends.

Conclusions. Bird species affected by a shared ecological driver (predation) can exhibit correlated population trends when introduced predators are controlled, but correlations cannot be predicted by similarity in ecological traits.

Implications. We advocate for testing consistency of correlations at multiple sites so as to validate the evidence-based use of the population indicator-species concept as a cost-effective alternative to monitoring whole communities.

Context. Although ∼3% of white-tailed deer are killed on roads each year, no previous study has tested for an effect of roads on deer abundance. This is difficult to do because road density is generally negatively correlated with deer habitat availability.

Aims. . Our goal was to determine whether roads affect deer abundance.

Methods. . First, we used an existing dataset from Pennsylvania, USA, to determine a range of paved road densities representing a significant range in deer per capita mortality. We then conducted a field study in eastern Ontario, Canada, with sample sites for relative deer abundance selected such that (1) road density in the surrounding landscapes varied over this same range, and (2) there were low correlations across landscapes between road density and deer habitat availability. The latter allowed us to isolate the effects of roads from the effects of habitat on deer abundance. We indexed relative deer abundance using a combination of pellet samples and track counts.

Key results. . Unexpectedly, we observed a positive relationship between relative deer abundance and paved road density.

Conclusions. . We speculate that this positive relationship is due to (1) reduced deer predation and/or perceived predation risk and/or hunting pressure in landscapes with higher road density and/or (2) provision of a resource or service by roads, the benefits of which outweigh the road mortality.

Implications. . We found no evidence that road mortality places deer populations at risk of decline, at least over the range of road density values in our study. Therefore we conclude that road mortality is not a conservation concern for white-tailed deer in ecological contexts similar to our study areas.

Context. Foxes are carriers of many zoonoses, such as the fox tapeworm. Treating foxes with medication of edible bait is often the only way of protecting people. Whereas bait can be distributed very effectively by aeroplane in rural areas, in settled areas it must be distributed by hand. In doing so it is important to get as close as possible to the foxes.

Aims. In suburban areas it is important to ensure that it is mainly foxes that take the bait and that they do so within a short time. In order to achieve this, a habitat model was developed for the baiting of foxes in suburban areas.

Methods. In Grünwald, a suburb of Munich, 12 foxes were radio-collared and observed to see which gardens they visited more frequently or for longer periods. At the same time, the community area was divided up by a grid. At each point on the grid, two gardens were selected: one garden known to be visited by foxes, and a control garden in which no fox had been observed. In this way the structure of average gardens in the community could be compared with those used by foxes. On this basis a model of garden use by foxes was developed and checked by a program of phototrapping in a separate area.

Key results. Using sources of food, bushes and garden houses as variables, a habitat model was developed with the categories ‘unsuitable’, ‘less suitable’ and ‘very suitable’ for foxes. This correlated closely with the appearance of foxes in gardens (P < 0.001).

Conclusion. The model helps to identify gardens preferred by foxes.

Implications. This study shows us how to reach foxes in suburban environments quickly with bait containing medication and so contributes to improving public health. The method described, of checking a model in an area not used in the development of the model, can also be seen as a contribution towards the universalisation of models.

Context. Rattus tanezumi is a serious crop pest within the island of Luzon, Philippines. In intensive flood-irrigated rice field ecosystems of Luzon, female R. tanezumi are known to primarily nest within the tillers of ripening rice fields and along the banks of irrigation canals. The nesting habits of R. tanezumi in complex rice–coconut cropping systems are unknown.

Aims. To identify the natal nest locations of R. tanezumi females in rice–coconut systems of the Sierra Madre Biodiversity Corridor (SMBC), Luzon, during the main breeding season to develop a management strategy that specifically targets their nesting habitat.

Methods. When rice was at the booting to ripening stage, cage-traps were placed in rice fields adjacent to coconut habitat. Thirty breeding adult R. tanezumi females were fitted with radio-collars and successfully tracked to their nest sites.

Key results. Most R. tanezumi nests (66.7%) were located in coconut groves, five nests (16.7%) were located in rice fields and five nests (16.7%) were located on the rice field edge. All nests were located above ground level and seven nests were located in coconut tree crowns. The median distance of nest sites to the nearest rice field was 22.5 m. Most nest site locations had good cover of ground vegetation and understorey vegetation, but low canopy cover. Only one nest location had an understorey vegetation height of less than 20 cm.

Conclusions. In the coastal lowland rice–coconut cropping systems of the SMBC, female R. tanezumi showed a preference for nesting in adjacent coconut groves. This is contrary to previous studies in intensive flood-irrigated rice ecosystems of Luzon, where the species nests mainly in the banks of irrigation canals. It is important to understand rodent breeding ecology in a specific ecosystem before implementing appropriate management strategies.

Implications. In lowland rice–coconut cropping systems, coconut groves adjacent to rice fields should be targeted for the management of R. tanezumi nest sites during the main breeding season as part of an integrated ecologically based approach to rodent pest management.

Context. Guanacos, the only native ungulates inhabiting Patagonian arid lands, are perceived by local people as a threat to livestock production and, consequently, uncontrolled hunting and harassment are widespread across the region. In 2005, a traditional sheep ranch (RSP) was converted into a wildlife reserve, offering the opportunity to assess changes in guanaco tolerance to motorised vehicles after harassment ceased.

Aims. The aims of the present study were to address factors influencing guanaco flight response on RSP, to assess inter-annual variation in flight responses after management changed and to compare guanaco response to cars among the RSP population, neighbouring ranches with traditional management and a southern population (C2B) that has had effective protection since the early 1970s.

Methods. Field surveys using available roads at RSP were conducted during a 4-year period to assess inter-annual changes in guanaco flight probability. Current estimates of flight probability at RSP were then compared with point estimates obtained from neighbouring ranches and the C2B population.

Results. We found that flight probability at RSP decreased as groups were located farther from the transect line and groups with at least one juvenile were more likely to flee than were adult-only groups. Flight probability decreased progressively during the study and significant differences with initial conditions emerged during the fourth year of monitoring. The current flight response observed at RSP is consistent with an intermediate state between neighbouring ranches and C2B population.

Key conclusion. Our results support the hypothesis that guanacos can become rapidly habituated to vehicles if harassment ceases and subsequent traffic acts as a neutral stimulus for enough time.

Implications. Finally, we discuss how our results may be helpful for other recently created reserves and ecotourism oriented projects.

Context. The bush dog (Speothos venaticus) is difficult to observe, capture, and study. To date, indirect evidence and opportunistic field observations have been the primary sources of information about the species’ ecology. Field data are urgently needed to clarify the species’ ecological requirements, behaviour and movement patterns.

Aims. The present study uses 13 months of telemetry data from a group of bush dogs to begin to address questions about area requirements, habitat preferences and movement patterns of this difficult-to-study species.

Methods. We tracked a group of bush dogs (two adults, one juvenile, four young) in an area of intact and altered Cerrado (woodland–savanna biome) in eastern Mato Grosso, Brazil (Nova Xavantina District).

Key results. The group had a total home range of 140 km² (fixed kernel 95%), with smaller seasonal ‘subareas’ (areas used for 1–2 months before moving to another area, with repetition of some areas over time) and demonstrated a preference for native habitats.

Conclusions. The bush dog’s home range is greater than that of other canids of the same size, even correcting for group size. Patterns of seasonal movement are also different from what has been observed in other South American canids.

Implications. From our observations in the Brazilian savanna, bush dogs need large tracks of native habitat for their long-term persistence. Although the present study is based on a single pack, it is highly relevant for bush dog conservation because it provides novel information on the species’ spatial requirements and habitat preferences.

Context. Mass strandings of cetaceans occur frequently in Tasmania, Australia, with efforts made by authorities to rescue stranded animals when possible. Determining the fate of rescued cetaceans following a stranding event is essential to assess individual survival and the effectiveness of rescue procedures; however, few studies have monitored animals post-release and their fate remains largely unknown. Satellite telemetry of released cetaceans provides a means of assessing the short- to medium-term success of stranding management techniques.

Aims. To examine the short- to medium-term survival and at-sea movement and behaviour of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas) on their release following a mass-stranding event.

Methods. We deployed satellite transmitters on 5 of 11 long-finned pilot whales returned to sea after a mass-stranding event in Tasmania in November 2008. The transmitters, incorporating a corrosive link, were attached to the dorsal fin of two adult and three subadult whales before release. The resulting telemetry data were examined to infer behaviour of the tagged individuals post-release, including swim speeds and how individuals moved in relation to each other over time.

Key results. Tracking data established the success of the rescue attempt and confirmed survival of stranded individuals in the short term (12–32 days) following release. Although conditions required whales to be released individually, data showed the tracked whales re-united immediately after release. A subsequent aerial survey revealed that they had formed a larger group with six additional whales which then separated and reformed.

Conclusions. Short-term survival of long-finned pilot whales following mass stranding and rescue was confirmed and behaviour was consistent with known behavioural information for this species. Importantly, the present study demonstrated physical recovery from a traumatic event in spite of delayed rescue and that individuals successfully re-united following individual release.

Implications. The present study confirmed that the rescue procedures employed were successful in the management and release of mass-stranded long-finned pilot whales, at least in the short term. It also provided some insight into the at-sea behaviour of this highly social and gregarious species and supported the theory behind stranding management techniques and the considerable resources and effort required for rescue of stranded cetaceans.

Context. Ecotourism and human recreational activities are increasing and can have a significant impact on fauna. The analysis of faecal glucocorticoid concentrations is a non-invasive method of measuring physiological stress responses of wildlife to various factors (i.e. human disturbances).

Aims. The aim of the present study was to determine whether increased physiological stress levels in wildcats (Felis silvestris) were a response to the level of tourism allowed within different zones in a natural park and/or a response to the seasonal reproductive state of wildcats.

Methods. The study was conducted from May 2005 to June 2009 at the Natural Park Montes do Invernadeiro (north-western Spain). The Natural Park is divided into the following three zones according to the level of tourism allowed: restricted public-use, restricted zone and integral reserve. An enzyme immunoassay technique was used to quantify cortisol metabolites and sex hormones from each of 110 fresh wildcat faecal samples collected from walked transects on forest roads within each zone. The number of visitors was recorded as a measure of tourist pressure.

Key results. The general linear model indicated that park zone and faecal progesterone levels were the factors that explained the variation in the faecal glucocorticoid metabolite levels. Cortisol metabolite concentrations were higher in some park zones where tourism intensity was higher (restricted public-use zone). Faecal cortisol metabolite concentrations were more elevated during gestation (spring) and during the young dispersal period (autumn).

Key conclusions. Therefore, we recommend that some zones of park (integral reserve) continue being maintained free of visitor impact and that visitor numbers be specially controlled during the animals’ sensitive periods (gestation) in the zone of restricted public use and in the restricted zone.

Context. Grazing by domestic stock can directly influence and shape the functions of an ecosystem. Most remaining remnant native grasslands in Australia are under some form of grazing management, with some possible adverse impacts for endemic grassland biota. For the endangered pygmy bluetongue lizard (Tiliqua adelaidensis), grazing of its remnant native grassland habitat has been seen as a potential conservation threat.

Aim. We aimed to investigate whether lizards altered their basking and foraging behaviour as a response to simulated grazing of the grassland habitat surrounding their burrows.

Methods. We used field manipulations over 3 years event by manually removing above-ground vegetation in 1 m² around occupied lizard burrows, to simulate intense grazing events. We video-recorded lizard responses to these manipulations. We filmed lizards before and after the simulated grazing event and monitored basking and foraging response. We also simultaneously filmed a control group of lizards that were not exposed to a simulated grazing event.

Key results. Although overall time spent basking did not differ between treatment and control groups, the lizards spent more of their basking time completely emerged (bold basking) in the grazing treatment, suggesting they changed behaviour after simulated grazing. Perhaps they were more confident of evading predators that they could more clearly see approaching. In one season lizards made more attempts to catch prey in the grazed treatment than in a control treatment following the treatment, suggesting that grazing might enhance visibility for the ambush predation method that these lizards use.

Conclusions. The results suggest that grazing may produce some benefits for lizards already established in burrows. This contrasts with some previous results and suggests that management of grazing regimes requires careful consideration of the conditions currently prevalent. In this case, the study was conducted during a drought period, and different results might have emerged in higher rainfall years.

Implications. Grazing management for lizard conservation requires detailed understanding of the complex relationships among lizard behaviour, vegetation cover and invertebrate prey availability.

Context. Conservation planning for threatened species depends on improved knowledge of the whereabouts of critical populations and thus the development of optimal detection methods.

Aims. To compare the effectiveness of infrared cameras and hair tunnels for detecting small to medium-sized ground-dwelling mammals in south-eastern Australian forests.

Methods. Reconyx PC90 cameras were paired with Handiglaze hair tunnels at 110 stations in south-eastern New South Wales. All devices were baited using rolled oats, peanut butter and pistachio essence and left in situ for a minimum duration of 30 days. Camera detection data were analysed for the first 15 and 30 days, whereas hair-tunnel detection data were analysed for the entire duration of deployment. Linear mixed models with site as a random effect and device as a fixed effect were developed for mammal species richness. Linear mixed logistic regression models for binary data were developed for detection probabilities of five taxa of interest, namely, Isoodon, Perameles, Potorous, Trichosurus and Wallabia.

Key results. Hair tunnels detected eight mammal species, whereas cameras detected 18 species. Modelled detection rates using cameras were 3.16 ± 0.21 species per site after 15 days and 4.24 ± 0.23 species per site after 30 days, whereas hair tunnels detected 0.34 ± 0.21 species over the entire deployment. Cameras were therefore approximately 9–12 times better at measuring mammal richness than were hair tunnels, depending on survey duration. In all calculations, the probability of detecting the five taxa of interest was significantly greater using cameras than using hair tunnels.

Conclusions. Infrared cameras and hair tunnels offer ethical advantages over direct detection methods such as cage trapping for small to medium-sized ground-dwelling mammals. Cameras also offer practical benefits because they work for protracted periods, without frequent checking by field researchers. Cameras are more effective at detecting a wide range of species than are hair tunnels and are significantly better for detecting the taxa we examined. Unlike hair tunnels, cameras sometimes allow for the identification of individual animals, and provide information about frequency of habitat use, reproductive status and aspects of behaviour.

Implications. On a unit by unit basis, infrared cameras are a far more efficient way to census a broad spectrum of ground-dwelling mammals than are hair tunnels.