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Experimental Assessment of
Shock Collars for Reducing Wolf-Human Conflicts
(2002-2005)
Graduate Student: Jason Hawley
Email: jason.hawley@po.state.ct.us
Shock
collars have rarely been tested on wild wolves. Our study
conducted field experiments to test the effectiveness of shock
collars for shifting wolf use away from baited sites. We found
that a 14-day shock period resulted in a substantial reduction in
wolf use of baited sites both during and after the shocking period.
Conversely, control wolf packs actually increased visitation to
baited sites. We also developed a new shock collar and
shock-probe system. This study demonstrates that shock collars
may be useful in a depredation management scenario, and it will lead to important guidelines
for implementing non-lethal control measures in areas wolves have recolonized
and/or where wolves are being reintroduced.
This research was conducted in cooperation with WDNR.
This study was funded by CMU, Defenders of Wildlife, and CITGO.
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Jason
Hawley with captured wolf in Wisconsin.
Jason is currently employed as a Wildlife Technician with the State of Connecticut Department of
Environmental Protection. |
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