Data from: Population genomics of Sitka black-tailed deer supports invasive species management and ecological restoration on islands

Invasive mammals represent a critical threat to island biodiversity;
eradications can result in ecological restoration yet may fail in the
absence of key population parameters. Over-browsing by invasive Sitka
black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus sitkensis) is causing severe
ecological and cultural impacts across the Haida Gwaii archipelago
(Canada). Previous eradication attempts demonstrate forest regeneration
upon deer removal, but reinvasion reverses conservation gains. Here we use
restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (12,947 SNPs) to investigate
connectivity and gene flow of invasive deer (n=181) across 15 islands,
revealing little structure throughout Haida Gwaii and identifying the
large, central island of Moresby (>2,600 km2) as the greatest
source of migrants. As a result, the archipelago itself should be
considered the primary eradication unit, with the exception of
geographically isolated islands like SGang Gwaay. Thus, limiting
eradications to isolated islands combined with controlled culling and
enhanced biosecurity may be the most effective strategies for achieving
ecological restoration goals.