Using prey densities to estimate the potential size of reintroduced populations of Eurasian lynx

In previous centuries human activities had a profound effect on the distribution of Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in Europe. The species has since been reintroduced to several areas but still much former range remains unoccupied. A relatively poor coloniser, it is likely that further reintroductions will be required to restore the species to potentially suitable areas. However, in the human-modified landscapes of Europe, where extensive wooded habitats are often fragmented, it is important to assess the potential lynx population size that could be supported in the available habitat. A previous study identified two networks of potential lynx habitat in Scotland. The present study further explores the feasibility of reintroducing lynx to Scotland by estimating the potential population size for the identified habitat by considering the availability of prey. An examination of lynx and wild ungulate densities from four areas in Europe, revealed a highly significant relationship between lynx density and the density of ungulate biomass. Based on the biomass represented by the densities of roe, red, sika and fallow deer occurring in two potential lynx habitat networks in Scotland, it was predicted that habitat in the Highlands could support 2.63 lynx 100 km⁻², while the Southern Uplands could support 0.83 lynx 100 km⁻². Applied to the amount of identified habitat, it is estimated that a Highlands habitat network could support around 400 lynx, and a Southern Uplands network, around 50. Scotland could support a large population of Eurasian lynx, which at current estimates, would be the fourth largest in Europe.     

Extensive small bowel resection in dogs and cats: 20 cases (1998-2004)

OBJECTIVE: To determine outcome in dogs and cats that underwent extensive (ie, > 50%) resection of the small intestine and identify factors associated with outcome. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 13 dogs and 7 cats. PROCEDURE: Medical records were reviewed, and follow-up information was obtained. RESULTS: In all 7 cats and in 8 of the 13 dogs, extensive intestinal resection was performed because of a foreign body. Mean+/-SD estimated percentage of intestine that was removed was 68+/-14% (range, 50% to 90%). Two dogs were euthanized 3 days after surgery because of dehiscence of the surgical site and development of septic peritonitis; 1 dog died of acute respiratory distress syndrome 5 days after surgery. The remaining 10 dogs and 7 cats were discharged from the hospital, and follow-up information was available for 15 of the 17. Median survival time was 828 days, and 12 of the 15 animals for which long-term follow-up information was available had good outcomes. However, none of the factors examined, including percentage of intestine resected, were significantly associated with outcome. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Most dogs and cats that underwent extensive resection of the small intestine had a good outcome. The amount of intestine resected was not associated with outcome. These data may be useful in providing prognostic information in cases of extensive small intestinal resection.