rsg_book_2013

Reptiles Small enough VHFtagswith long enoughbattery life wereneeded for trackingvipers. After manytested solutions, finallya technician at FIWIdeveloped the ones weare using now. High densities ofpossible predators likewild-boar, fox andbadger.Major lessons learned Grasslandreconstruction seemsBaiting of rodent trapssimple when planningand proved really complex and difficult in the implementation phase. Despite some fears of genetic problems, Hungarian meadow vipers canreproduce annually with an average clutch size of 11, with a record of 27. Artificial burrows can be useful tool in providing semi-natural conditions andchance for regular checks. Even they can be used in translocating animals tonew sites. Post-release monitoring needs reliable remote tracking technique. Cameratrapscan provide additional information on presence of predators. Although the target species is a venomous creature, general public is neutralor supporting the project.Success of projectHighly Successful Successful Partially Successful FailureReason(s) for success/failure: The complex approach of conservation effort tried to tackle each element thatmight be responsible for the detected decline of the target species, involvingall stake-holders, NGOs, National Parks and state authorities who haveconnection to the subject. This effort was awarded by the EuropeanCommission by naming the LIFE-project as “Best of the Best” in 2009. Captive breeding technique of Hungarian meadow vipers evolved during theproject to a level, that planning of any current or future repatriation can rely on. Habitat reconstruction effort and recent changes in management of viperhabitats influenced positively overall state of remaining viper inhabited sites. It would be too early to claim re-introduction effort totally successful, but thereare positive signs like observed reproduction in the wild. Hopefully in a few51