Shock collars as a site-aversive conditioning tool for wolves.

Reduction of livestock losses from predators is a complex problem that requires the integration of lethal and nonlethal management tools. During 2005 and 2006, we tested shock collars for conditioning wild wolves ( Canis lupus) in Wisconsin, USA, to avoid bait sites over an 80-day period. Treatment wolves ( n = 10) visited shock zones less and spent less time at shock zones compared to control wolves ( n = 4) during 40-day shock periods and 40-day post-shock periods. Treatment wolves remained away from shock zones for a greater number of days compared to control wolves. A smaller proportion of treatment pack members visited shock zones during shock and post-shock periods compared to control packs. Shock collars conditioned treatment wolves to avoid bait sites for >40 days and reduced visitation by other pack members. We also demonstrated the application of shock collars at the scale of livestock farms. Shock collars could serve as a useful nonlethal tool for managing livestock depredations, particularly in chronic problem areas and with endangered populations. © 2012 The Wildlife Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]