An adaptive management approach for the regent honeyeater zoo-based conservation breeding release program

Context Zoo-based conservation breeding and release programs help mitigate biodiversity loss from human-driven change, using adaptive management to evaluate actions, guide research priorities, and inform policy. Zoo-based conservation breeding has played a significant role in the recovery program of the critically endangered regent honeyeater. Over 400 zoo-bred regent honeyeaters have been released into New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria (VIC), Australia between 2000 and 2022 to bolster wild populations. Aims The aim of the study was to develop a set of key actions to shape the adaptive management strategy for the zoo-based regent honeyeater breeding and release program. Methods We analysed the post-release apparent survival and reproductive success of 414 zoo-bred regent honeyeaters released to the wild in NSW and VIC. The data from the Victorian release were examined in a previous publication; however, they are included here with updated information from the most recent post-release sightings and a revised analytical approach. To generate the management recommendations, we used a combination of evidence-based data generated from the first and second review, literature review and stakeholder engagement. Key results The first two actions are specifically highlighted as important by the results of the current study: (i) release the majority of birds at the optimum age of 1–3 years, and (ii) consider parents’ age when pairing birds and where possible breed from older mothers but younger fathers. The other four actions are generated from the synthesis of results from both reviews or from evaluation of the literature and expert consultation: (iii) undertake song tutoring for zoo bred birds and assigning song quality score, (iv) birds to spend a minimum of 8 weeks, prior to release, in a multispecies free flight aviary, (v) manage clutches per pair per season and (vi) release birds with breeding experience (where appropriate). Conclusions This review highlights the importance of the adaptive management framework to drive the enhancement of the program, and these actions form a flexible framework that may be further adapted as new information emerges. Implications We recommend regular evaluation of the regent honeyeater breeding and release program so that new actions can be implemented iteratively in the adaptive management strategy.