Effects of rearing methods on the reproduction of reintroduced Crested Ibis Nipponia nippon on Sado Island, Japan

Abstract

An increasing number of reintroduction programs have been set up in recent years in an attempt to reintroduce once extinct species to their indigenous ranges and create self-sustaining populations. However, the released individuals often experience low mating success and fecundity. Appropriate rearing in captivity is considered essential for the successful post-release reproduction of captive-reared individuals. Low post-release mating success and fecundity are also issues in reintroduced Crested Ibis Nipponia nippon populations on Sado Island. These phenomena may be caused by the effects of hand-rearing in captivity, yet temporary hand-rearing is necessary when captive breeding, because rescuing embryos from mortality is essential due to the abnormal behavior of parent birds in captivity. Therefore, the establishment of rearing methods that temporarily protect embryos or chicks while limiting the negative effects of hand-rearing on breeding after release is needed. To overcome these challenges, we tested how captive rearing methods impact post-release courtship behavior, mating success, and fecundity of the ibis. By combining detailed rearing history in captivity with long-term post-release monitoring, we demonstrate that the initiation of parental rearing before the chicks' eyes open is the critical factor leading to increased pseudocopulation frequency and mating success in captive-born male ibis. Based on these results, not hand-rearing the chicks beyond the day after hatching would reduce the impact of hand-rearing on reproduction after release. Rearing methods that take into account the nestling period should be implemented to enhance the efficiency and reduce the cost of avian reintroduction projects.