Gusset, MarkusRyan, Sadie J.Hofmeyr, MarkusVan Dyk, GusDavies-Mostert, Harriet T.Graf, Jan A.Owen, CaileySzykman, MicaelaMacdonald, David W.Monfort, Steven L.Wildt, David E.Maddock, Anthony H.Mills, Michael G.L. (Gus)Slotow, RobertSomers, Michael J.2009-02-252009-02-252008Gusset, M, Ryan, SJ, Hofmeyr, M, Van Dyk, G, Davies-Mostert, HR, Graf, JA, Owen, C, Szykman, M, Macdonald, DW, Monfort, SL, Wildt, DE, Maddock, AH, Mills, MG, Slotow, R & Somers, MJ 2008, ‘Efforts going to the dogs? Evaluating attempts to re-introduce endangered wild dogs in South Africa’, Journal of Applied Ecology, vol. 45, no. 1, pp. 100-108. [http:// www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/118521792/home]0021-890110.1111/j.1365-2664.2007.01357.xhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/9002We evaluated one of the most extensive efforts to date to re-introduce an endangered species: attempts to establish an actively managed meta-population of African wild dogs Lycaon pictus in South Africa. Using an information-theoretic approach, known-fate modelling in program mark was employed to estimate the survival of re-introduced wild dogs and their offspring, and to model covariate effects relative to survival. Multiple a priori hypotheses on correlates of re-introduction success were tested (collated from extensive individual experiences) using different re-introduction attempts as natural quasi experiments. Survival analyses revealed that the determinants of re-introduction success can be reduced to two factors relevant for management, suggesting that wild dog re-introductions should be attempted with socially integrated animals that are released into securely fenced areas, unless measures are implemented to mitigate human-related mortalities outside protected areas. Synthesis and application. This study illustrates that monitoring and evaluation of conservation efforts, complimented with expert knowledge, forms the foundation of informed decision-making to underpin management recommendations with scientific evidence, particularly if the proposed actions are controversial.enBlackwell. The definitive version is available at www.blackwell-synergy.com.African wild dog (Lycaon pictus)EvaluationEvidence-based conservationLycaon pictusMarkMetapopulationMonitoringRe-introductionSurvival analysisPostprint Article