Evaluating the “recovery level” of endangered species without prior information before alien invasion

Researchers have developed a novel method to measure the recovery of endangered species following invasive predator management, demonstrating its effectiveness on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan. The study found that population densities of four endangered species—Amami rabbit and three frog species—showed clear signs of recovery as mongoose densities declined, with populations reaching estimated carrying capacities at 20-40% of surveyed sites. This approach, combining long-term monitoring data with a logistic growth model, provides a measurable benchmark for assessing the success of invasive predator eradication programs without requiring pre-invasion baseline data. The findings highlight the potential for widespread application in conservation efforts, offering unambiguous goals for managing invasive species.

Watari, Y., Nishijima, S., Fukasawa, M., Yamada, F., Abe, S., & Miyashita, T. (2013). Evaluating the “recovery level” of endangered species without prior information before alien invasion. Ecology and Evolution, 3(14), 4711–4721. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.863