Declaration Dr. Thomas H. Pringle - Buffalo Field Campaign

INTRODUCTION
Wild bison are at risk of genomic deterioration as a result of population
bottlenecks, hybridization, and domestication (Freese et al. 2007). The Greater
Yellowstone Area (GYA) bison represent two of only three remaining populations in the
U.S. without hybridization with cattle (Freese et al. 2007; Halbert and Derr 2007).
Knowledge regarding the distribution of genetic diversity among bison would help
managers to conserve the diversity remaining in bison. GYA bison breeding groups,
which congregate during the summer breeding season, should be targeted for sampling to
evaluate genetic population structure because this is when most gene flow between these
groups occurs. Unfortunately, traditional invasive methods of obtaining blood or tissue
samples by capturing free ranging bison are extremely difficult, costly, and dangerous for
both the bison and research personnel. Traditional sampling entails a high risk of
physiological stress and potential mortality associated with immobilizing agents.
We developed an alternative approach for acquiring DNA samples from wild
bison in the field. Non-invasive fecal sampling has been used, with a high degree of
success, in studies of ungulates, such as alpine ibex (Capra ibex) and Corsican mouflon
(Ovis musimon), bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) (Maudet et al. 2004; Luikart et al.
2007). Benefits of fecal sampling in wild, free ranging animals, such as bison, are three
fold. First, individuals may be observed at safe distances for social dominance ranking,
sex, and age group prior to collection of feces, thus, providing an opportunity to collect
additional data, without disturbing individuals of interest. Second, fecal samples provide
information for infectious diseases (i.e. bacteria, viruses, and parasites, etc.), diet, or
hormone status (e.g. pregnancy or stress) (Borjesson et al. 1996; Möstl and Palme 2002;
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