Translocations of Native Species in the UK: Implications for Biodiversity

Abstract

Native species are translocated for conservation, commercial, amenity and research purposes. These activities are related, and need to be considered and planned in terms of their effects on biodiversity. Procedures for assessing, implementing and regulating translocations have, however, been subject to largely uncoordinated development; recommendations or guidelines being produced separately for each area of expertise. There is a need to pull together the profuse information concerning specific translocations in order to present a broad approach to the general problems and concerns. Here, the extent and nature of translocations of native species within the UK are reviewed, and recommendations for policy and legislation are made in the context of those currently in use in the UK. The recommendations include the following: (i) improvement of the ways in which relevant information is disseminated; (ii) ease of implementation should be a prime consideration; and (iii) formation of new policy and guidelines should include all UK and international organizations involved in carrying out, advising on, or licensing translocations.