Dusky Gopher Frog (Lithobates sevosus) Repatriation at a Reintroduction Site Through Zoo-Led Captive-Release Efforts.

Abstract

Captive-release programs are an increasingly popular conservation strategy to combat wild extinctions. However, it is critical to determine if translocating animals from captive colonies ("source populations") leads to the establishment of new wild populations that are both stable and self-sustaining. To fill this knowledge gap, we provide a case study from the dusky gopher frog (Lithobates sevosus) reintroduction program to serve as an example for other critically endangered amphibians. In this study, we provide quantitative information on the reintroduction and survivorship of zoo-bred individuals that are released into the wild. This unique opportunity is the culmination of close to 20 years of collective efforts across multiple agencies. By taking advantage of the key monitoring window shortly after initial releases, we can formally declare the first successfully reintroduced, breeding population of dusky gopher frogs founded solely from a captive-bred colony.