Survival Remains High in Griffon Vultures 40 Years After Reintroduction

ABSTRACT The long‐term success of conservation translocations not only relies on the survival and reproductive success of released individuals, but also on addressing challenges related to population expansion up to natural regulation, whether exceeding expected numbers, or hindered by environmental or anthropogenic changes over time. Using the 40‐year dataset of intensive griffon vulture ( Gyps fulvus ) monitoring since its reintroduction in French Grands Causses in 1981, we performed a multi‐strata (multi‐states and multi‐events) mark‐recapture analysis to estimate survival probabilities. We (1) integrated mark‐loss and remarking events, (2) explored a variety of anthropic and environmental factors that may affect survival in this population, such as wind turbines, feeding stations or density dependence. Overall, the life histories of 1506 wild‐born individuals were computed, yielding juvenile survival probabilities of 0.66 (95% CI = 0.605–0.707), immature survival probabilities of 0.91 (95% CI = 0.872–0.937) and adult probabilities of 0.94 (95% CI = 0.917–0.952). Even though founder individuals were released four decades ago, and the population has grown continuously ever since, no effect of density dependence or of potential anthropic threats was detected on survival. Beyond bringing another piece of evidence supporting the relevance of this translocation program, as well as the benefit of regular monitoring efforts over several decades, our findings illustrate the importance of considering the maximum carrying capacity once wildlife populations are restored. Questioning the number of individuals to be expected may indeed allow anticipating both adaptive monitoring and management strategies, and ultimately, ensure the long‐term viability of restored populations.