Preparing wildlife for release and monitoring progress

Nature exposure is crucial to accustom wildlife to their natural environment. This could involve gradually increasing exposure of an animal’s enclosure to outdoor elements, for example.
Stamina building is vital for ensuring that the wildlife can handle the physical demands of living in the wild. This could involve introducing swimming exercises for waterfowls, for instance.
Test the ability to recognise and catch food in a realistic environment. This is an essential survival skill.
Understanding release site requirements is crucial. Factors such as the presence of the same species, available food and water, lack of predators, and appropriate climate should be considered.
Acclimatisation at the release site can increase the likelihood of successful integration. This could involve using a soft-release cage initially.

Continual physical health checks are needed to ensure the animal is capable of survival in the wild.
Behavioural monitoring is critical in assessing if the animal has re-learned essential survival skills.
Regularly check for indicators of stress in animals. It’s crucial that animals remain calm and non-stressed as they prepare for release.
Record keeping can be instrumental in tracking progress. Assessments of the animal’s behaviours, changes in weight or condition, medical treatments or procedures must be meticulously documented.

Observing wildlife following their release is necessary to determine the success of rehabilitation efforts.
Some monitoring methods include radio tracking, visual observation, or report back tags/rings. Different animals and environments might require different monitoring techniques.
Regular assessment of data collected from post-release monitoring aids in refining rehabilitation and release processes.
Responding to issues in a timely manner is critical. If monitoring data suggest a released animal is struggling with survival, prompt action, potentially including medical intervention or re-capture, could be required.