In December 1978, 22 tule elk (Cervus elafhus nannodes) were relocated from the Tupman Tule Elk Reserve near Buttonwillow to For Hunter Liggett. Investigation 2.5 years later revealed total failure -- only 3 cows could be confirmed as still existing. Failure was due primarily to excessive poaching. Factors conducive to the high poaching rate were tameness of the relocated elk, location of release site, lack of monitoring, and resentment by locals to changing policies at Fort Hunter Liggett. Recommendations for future elk releases include using wild elk, changing of the release site, full-time monitoring, and promoting public relations.
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