Using population genetic tools to develop a control strategy for feral cats (Felis catus) in Hawai‘i

Heidi Hansen; Steven C. Hess; David Cole; Paul C. Banko

doi:10.1071/WR07043

RESEARCH ARTICLE (Open Access)

Next Contents Vol 34(8)

Using population genetic tools to develop a control strategy for feral cats (Felis catus) in Hawai‘i

Heidi Hansen ^A ^B , Steven C. Hess ^C ^E , David Cole ^A ^D and Paul C. Banko ^C

+ Author Affiliations

- Author Affiliations

^A Hawai‘i Cooperative Studies Unit (PACRC, UH Hilo), US Geological Survey Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, Kīlauea Field Station, PO Box 44, Hawai‘i National Park, HI 96718 USA.

^B Current address: Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Wildlife, 19 East Kawili Street, Hilo, HI 96720, USA.

^C US Geological Survey Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, Kīlauea Field Station, PO Box 44, Hawai‘i National Park, HI 96718 USA.

^D Current address: University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, 3190 Maile Way, Room 101, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA.

^E Corresponding author. Email: steve_hess@usgs.gov

Wildlife Research 34(8) 587-596 https://doi.org/10.1071/WR07043
Submitted: 10 April 2007 Accepted: 5 October 2007 Published: 18 December 2007

Abstract

Population genetics can provide information about the demographics and dynamics of invasive species that is beneficial for developing effective control strategies. We studied the population genetics of feral cats on Hawai‘i Island by microsatellite analysis to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure, assess gene flow and connectivity among three populations, identify potential source populations, characterise population dynamics, and evaluate sex-biased dispersal. High genetic diversity, low structure, and high number of migrants per generation supported high gene flow that was not limited spatially. Migration rates revealed that most migration occurred out of West Mauna Kea. Effective population size estimates indicated increasing cat populations despite control efforts. Despite high gene flow, relatedness estimates declined significantly with increased geographic distance and Bayesian assignment tests revealed the presence of three population clusters. Genetic structure and relatedness estimates indicated male-biased dispersal, primarily from Mauna Kea, suggesting that this population should be targeted for control. However, recolonisation seems likely, given the great dispersal ability that may not be inhibited by barriers such as lava flows. Genetic monitoring will be necessary to assess the effectiveness of future control efforts. Management of other invasive species may benefit by employing these population genetic tools.

Acknowledgements

This project was funded in part by the USGS–NPS Natural Resources Partnership Program (NRPP) and the USGS Invasive Species Program. We thank D. Hu, K. Misajon, R. Swift, J. T. Tunison, D. M. Goltz, R. M. Danner, D. Nelson, and R. M. Stephens for assistance, facilitation, guidance, and samples. N. Seavy and two anonymous reviewers provided helpful comments. Finally, we thank our research interns E. Baldwin and A. Bies, who provided invaluable assistance in gathering data. Any use of trade, product, or firm names in this publication is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the USA Government.

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