Integrating Behavior and Conservation: Behavioral Ecology as a Management Tool

My research utilizes behavioral ecology as a management tool for species in zoos and in the wild. Each dissertation chapter explores a different application for using animal behavior to assess management concerns, evaluate protocols, and minimize adverse effects. Chapter one addresses low reproductive success in two zoo-housed passerine species, blue-gray tanagers (Thraupis episcopus) and red-capped cardinals (Paroaria gularis). I evaluated and compared two breeding management protocols: pedigree-based pairing and female mate-choice. I found that pairing method did not impact reproductive success, but that the opportunity to engage in mate-choice led to greater welfare for the individual expressing preference. For monogamous species, incorporating both sexes’ mate preference may be more beneficial, improving welfare and mating success. Next, I utilized behavioral indicators of patch use to evaluate the impact of visitor proximity on Bennett’s wallabies’(Notamacropus rufogriseus) perception of their walk-through exhibit. I identified key features within areas of preference and aversion and provided recommendations for how managers can amend underutilized areas to increase space use. In my last two chapters, I shift my application of behavioral ecology to the management of two free-ranging ‘pest’ species, the swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor) in Australia and the Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) in the USA, whose close-proximity to humans and damages inflicted by foraging, can lead to direct conflict. I applied behavior-based management aimed at modifying each species foraging behavior by manipulating a food item’s value (perceived or actual). I then utilized behavioral indicators of patch use to evaluate the efficacy of each potential feeding deterrent. For wallabies, I found that a phantom decoy (a food item that is present, but inaccessible) shifted their short-term food preference, but the effect diminished over time suggesting that decoys are unlikely to be an effective tool for manipulating wallabies’ long-term foraging decisions. For squirrels, I found that peppermint and chili pepper oils were most effective at reducing seed consumption, indicating that these two plant compounds have the greatest potential as squirrel feeding deterrents. The results from these two chapters demonstrate that patch use serves as a successful tool for quantifying short- and long-term effectiveness of potential feeding deterrents.