Sabuko – Society for Nature Conservation is pleased to announce an opening for the Terms of Reference (TOR): Wildlife Comeback and Natural Recolonization.

Introduction

These Terms of Reference (TOR) outline the scope and objectives for a wildlife comeback study for the Iori Plateau. The study aims to assess the potential for natural recolonization and reintroduction of large and mid-sized mammals, evaluating both the opportunities and challenges associated with each approach. The focus will be on understanding why natural recolonization has not occurred thus far and identifying factors that could support it in the future, such as improving habitat connectivity, mitigating limiting factors or threats, and implementing targeted management actions. The study will provide recommendations for enhancing the project site and landscape to support these objectives.

Additionally, the study will compare the potential for natural recolonization versus active reintroduction, outlining the circumstances under which each approach would be appropriate. Where reintroduction is considered, it will be guided by the IUCN`s standards and criteria for species reintroduction to ensure the process aligns with international best practices.

Project Background

The Georgian steppe, spanning the Iori and Alazani rivers, is a unique ecosystem hosting a diverse mix of Palearctic, Indomalayan, and Afrotropical fauna. Historically, the area supported a range of species, including the Caucasian leopard, tigers, cheetahs, and various herbivores like gazelles and deer. However, due to factors like climate change, unsustainable livestock grazing, habitat degradation, illegal hunting, and poor land management, many of these species have become locally extinct.

This project builds on previous conservation efforts and aims to restore degraded grasslands, reconnect wildlife corridors, and enhance the resilience of the Kakheti region`s ecosystem. The focus is on rehabilitating damaged habitats, restoring floodplain forests, promoting sustainable grazing, improving water management, engaging local communities, and prioritizing species conservation.

The Iori Plateau, a historically significant winter pasture for semi-nomadic pastoralists, still supports several large mammal species, such as wolves, brown bears, and lynxes, along with a small, recently reintroduced population of goitered gazelles. However, much of the natural steppe ecosystem remains under threat, lacking adequate legal protection. Key activities of this project include sustainable grazing practices, legislative and policy development, addressing factors leading to local species extinction, and supporting sustainable rangeland management.

Study Objectives

Compile a List of Species: Create a comprehensive list of large and mid-sized mammals historically present in the landscape, considering a reasonable timeframe for understanding current ecological dynamics. Identify the factors behind their extinction or decline.

Assess Recolonization and Reintroduction Potential:

** Habitat and Threat Analysis: For each species, assess the current ability of the landscape to sustain a viable population, including the carrying capacity and existing threats. Evaluate if the factors that led to their extinction have been mitigated or are still present.
** Impact Assessment: Evaluate the ecological and socio-economic impacts of each species` return, whether through natural recolonization or reintroduction. Propose measures to enhance positive impacts and mitigate potential adverse effects.
** Connectivity and Supported Recolonization: Map the presence of source populations and their connectivity to the landscape, clarifying the potential for supported recolonization through habitat restoration and connectivity enhancement.
** Recommendations for Species Reintroduction: For each species, formulate a recommendation about the feasibility and appropriateness of reintroduction or recolonization, based on its role in the ecosystem and alignment with broader biodiversity and ecosystem restoration goals.

Study Methodology

** Literature Review: Review current and historical information on the distribution, ecology, and conservation status of species relevant for reintroduction or recolonization. This includes consulting existing studies, museum collections, and experts to identify factors that led to extinction or population decline.
** Habitat Assessment: Conduct a detailed habitat assessment using existing data and field surveys to evaluate habitat quality, species distribution, and site and population connectivity. Employ GIS and remote sensing techniques to support spatial analysis.
** Species Selection: Identify species for potential reintroduction or supported recolonization based on ecological roles, conservation priorities, and feasibility. Consider each species` function within the ecosystem and their potential contribution to biodiversity restoration.
** Donor Population Evaluation: Research and evaluate donor (source) populations to ensure their viability and that removal of individuals for reintroduction will not threaten their survival. Include assessments of population viability, disease risk, and socio-economic impacts.
** Stakeholder Engagement: Consult with local communities, protected area authorities, and other stakeholders to gather input and build support for proposed actions. Discuss the social, economic, and cultural implications of reintroductions or recolonization efforts.

Deliverables

** Comprehensive Report: Summarize the findings, including identified species, habitat suitability, feasibility analysis, and impact assessments.
** Species Profiles: Provide detailed profiles for each species, including conservation status, distribution, ecological roles, and recommendations for reintroduction or supported recolonization.
** Habitat Suitability Maps: Develop maps and spatial analysis reports on habitat quality and connectivity.

Timeline and Budget: The consultant will propose a detailed project timeline and budget, including phases, key milestones, and expected durations. The budget should itemize personnel costs, equipment, data collection, analysis, report preparation, and other relevant expenses.

Contact Email: lx.mikeladze@gmail.com