This book considers a number of problems posed by ungulates and their management in Europe. Through a synthesis of the underlying biology and a comparison of the management techniques adopted in different countries, the book explores which management approaches seem effective and in which circumstances. Experts in a number of different areas of applied wildlife biology review various management problems and alternative solutions, including the impact of large ungulates on agriculture, forestry and conservation habitats, the impact of disease and predation on ungulate populations and the involvement of ungulates in road traffic accidents and possible measures for mitigation. This book is directed at practising wildlife managers, those involved in research to improve methods of wildlife management, and policy-makers in local, regional and national administrations.

This book is the first to explore the diversity of management objectives and the different approaches to wildlife management of large ungulates in a wide range of different European countries. Specialist authors from each country present an analysis of the species present, numerical status and distribution of different ungulates which occur in their particular country and consider issues which must be addressed by management (whether management for conservation, for control of damaging impacts or for exploitation). Management systems are described (and both legislative and administrative structures) together with an evaluation of how effective current management practices may be in addressing problems identified - or the extent to which they may contribute to those problems. The book is aimed primarily at those who may be actively involved in research into improving methods of wildlife management; practising wildlife managers and game-keepers; policy makers in local regional or national administrations, responsible for formulating policies.

Ungulates are an extraordinarily important group of animals worldwide, at many levels - in their remarkable biodiversity; in many cases, as keystone species with a disproportionate effect on the functioning of the wider ecological systems of which they form a part or as dominant species acting as ecological engineers; and as a prey base for endangered or expanding populations of large carnivores. They are also important culturally and economically, as a major source of protein in subsistence cultures and because of their wide exploitation in recreational hunting, which is still a major form of land-use in many countries. A number of aspects of the balance of cost and benefit of ungulates and their management in Europe are considered. Through a synthesis of the underlying biology and a comparison of the management techniques adopted in different countries, management approaches which seem effective within their respective circumstances are explored. Each chapter is written by experts in their own particular field, ensuring that they are aware of the most up-to-date literature on that topic and can also offer an experienced and informed review based on their own research experience.

Efforts to conserve wildlife populations and preserve biological diversity are often hampered by an inadequate understanding of animal behavior. How do animals react to gaps in forested lands, or to sport hunters? Do individual differences - in age, sex, size, past experience - affect how an animal reacts to a given situation? Differences in individual behavior may determine the success or failure of a conservation initiative, yet they are rarely considered when strategies and policies are developed. Animal Behavior and Wildlife Conservation explores how knowledge of animal behavior may help increase the effectiveness of conservation programs. The book brings together conservation biologists, wildlife managers, and academics from around the world to examine the importance of general principles, the role played by specific characteristics of different species, and the importance of considering the behavior of individuals and the strategies they adopt to maximize fitness. Each chapter begins by looking at the theoretical foundations of a topic, and follows with an exploration of its practical implications. A concluding chapter considers possible future contributions of research in animal behavior to wildlife conservation.