Because bears readily breed in captivity, the use of progeny of penned animals as a source for augmentation and reintroduction has been suggested. We radiotagged 6 pen-reared black bears (Ursus americanus; 4 male, 2 female) that were released in the wild between 2 February 1988 and 24 May 1988. We also collected release and recovery data from 17 other pen-reared black bears (7 male, 10 female) that were eartagged and released between 25 October 1982 and 22 August 1995; 1 of these also was radiotagged. Mean age of released bears was 2.5 years. Bears fitted with radiocollars were monitored from 6 to 484 days after release. Pen-reared bears exhibited poor adaptability and survival when released into the wild. At least 5 bears (21.7%) caused nuisance problems. Six bears died and 2 others were suspected of being killed illegally. Results of these findings suggest that more research is needed on proper management of captive animals to enhance their chances of survival in the wild. Recommendations are made to improve future releases of pen-reared animals.
- Volume 9
- Issue
- Pages 145-150
- Publication Date 1 January 1997
- DOI 10.2307/3872675
- File Size 204.86 KB
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