Feral and Introduced Carnivores: Issues and Challenges

Feral and invasive carnivores have been intentionally or unintentionally introduced to many parts of the world for a variety of reasons. Once established, they have often caused significant impacts to endemic species because of their predatory nature and, in numerous cases, have altered ecosystem structure and function in important conservation areas. They can also cause competition for native predators, hybridization with native species, losses to livestock and companion animals, and disease hazards. We provide examples of the extent of introductions, resulting impacts, and efforts to control or eradicate these populations. Working with introduced or feral carnivores presents many challenges to resource managers, agencies, agriculturists, and landowners. There has been considerable success in controlling or eradicating some populations in various parts of the world, primarily using traps, shooting, and toxicants. Recent technological advances and research needs are addressed.