Fauna-rescue programs highlight unresolved scientific, ethical and animal welfare issues
Peter Menkhorst A B C , Nick Clemann A B and Joanna Sumner B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, PO Box 137, Heidelberg, Vic. 3084, Australia.
B Museum Victoria, Carlton Gardens, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: peter.menkhorst@delwp.vic.gov.au
Pacific Conservation Biology 22(4) 301-303 https://doi.org/10.1071/PC16007
Submitted: 22 February 2016 Accepted: 18 March 2016 Published: 20 June 2016
Abstract
In response to a paper advocating large-scale, multi-species ‘fauna-rescue’ programs when habitat is being destroyed, we urge caution by highlighting the lack of evidence of success in such programs. We argue that any benefits are likely to be outweighed by ecological and animal welfare risks, and that any conservation gains are likely to be illusionary.
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