Translocation as a conservation tool for endangered tortoises in Mexico

Abstract

Translocation programs have largely been focused on birds and mammals, however reptiles have been gaining public appeal thus allowing the creation of spaces for their conservation over the last few decades. With more than 80 % of turtle and tortoise species at risk of becoming extinct in the world, translocation may be the only option for recovering populations. In Mexico, 33 chelonian species, out of the 48 described, have a protection status but no translocation programs have been conducted. Therefore, we reviewed open literature on worldwide tortoise translocation projects to attempt the development of a guideline to improve success rate. We identified the main influencing factors for a successful outcome in a translocation: habitat suitability, acclimatization (soft release), selection of translocation candidates, monitoring post translocation and public acceptance of the translocation program. The information provided by this review will be useful to develop strategies for future tortoise translocations in Mexico and around the world.