Authors: Nathan P. Snow · Keely J. Kohen · Ingrid A. Messer · Abigail Pagels · Seth M. Cook · Scott Beckerman · Travis Guerrant · Kurt C. VerCauteren ·Kim M. Pepin
Summary: Feral or invasive ungulates exist worldwide, and their ability to thrive threatens biodiversity, degrades ecosystems, and causes damage to agriculture and properties. Strategies for removing feral ungulates have varied greatly, successes have been difficult, and the need is increasing. The most important components for success included ensuring adequate funding was secured for the campaign ($0.5–1 million/km2 is recommended) and population recovery or reinvasion were minimized. The frequency of campaigns has increased during the last 45 years; however, the areas worked, monthly durations, removal techniques used, funding, and ultimately the rates of success have not changed.
A lack of increasing success for larger and more complex campaigns indicated that modernization of technologies for population control has been minimal, and larger breakthroughs are needed. Safe and effective toxicants and sterilants may provide those advances if developed. Lessons learned from campaigns indicate that pilot testing control methods prior to initiating full campaigns may help to alleviate uncertainties, produce more reliable plans, and help inform the biology of the animals being targeted for removal.