The Translocation Continuum Framework for context-specific decision making

Abstract

Translocations are a critical tool for reversing biodiversity loss but are often characterized by unreasonably high expectations, leading to many translocation programs being brief and terminated before achieving their full potential.

To address these issues, we developed the “Translocation Continuum Framework”, an easy-to-use tool that clarifies the criteria, strategies, tactics, progress measures, and expected outcomes for five key translocation “phases”: Feasibility Studies, Pilot Studies, Primary Trials, Secondary Experiments, and Tertiary Reinforcements. By accounting for uncertainty, the Framework aims to empower practitioners to design translocation programs that suit their context.

We also discuss the limitations of “success” and “failure” labels in translocations, and the importance of parsimonious decision making to maximize learning with the least amount of loss. Only by managing expectations of the likelihood of establishment, growth, and regulation throughout a program's lifetime can we galvanize trust and investment in translocations so they can contribute meaningfully to long-term restoration.