Data for: Reproductive success of captive-reared Allegheny Woodrats (Neotoma magister) released into genetically depauperate populations

Habitat fragmentation and degradation have led to a proliferation of small
and isolated populations that are vulnerable to genetic erosion. Reduction
in habitat and concomitant declines in population connectivity can
expediate the collapse of species that exist as natural metapopulations.
In recent years, Allegheny woodrats (Neotoma magister) have experienced
local extirpations and declines in genetic diversity across their range
due to disease-related mortality, reduced food availability, and
disruption of connectivity among subpopulations. In response, we developed
a captive-breeding program to facilitate genetic management of isolated
woodrat populations in Indiana. Between 2010 and 2012, 27 captive-reared
individuals were released to four sites with declining woodrat abundance.
We used 99 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 11 microsatellite loci to
genotype sympatric woodrats from the four sites, sampled before and after
the release of captive-reared individuals, to: 1) evaluate the
post-release reproductive success of captive-reared individuals and 2)
characterize changes in genetic diversity. A minimum of five of the 27
captive-reared woodrats produced at least 20 offspring, 11 of which were
sired by a single male. One site exhibited increased abundance by the end
of the monitoring period, although genetic variability decreased. Two
sites experienced population declines in concert with fluctuating genetic
variability. The last site showed comparable abundance at the beginning
and end of the monitoring period, with an increase in observed
heterozygosity. Our results indicate that captive-reared woodrats were, in
some cases, able to reproduce in the wild, interbreed with residents and
increase genetic diversity and abundance among small, isolated
subpopulations.