New methods for preservation of genetic diversity of black grouse, Tetrao tetrix: preliminary results

Non-invasive methods enabling to obtain the genetic material without removing birds from natal populations of black grouse were elaborated and checked in the field. The main idea was to mate the tame, especially accustomed hen from the aviary with a wild cock. After mating the hen lays the eggs in the aviary and we obtain the first generation which has a half of the gene pool coming from the population of its father. Repeated crossings of the females from such broods with other wild males bring the genes from the original population to the aviary in a non-invasive manner in only few years. Another method is to collect semen from wild males using a stuffed female. We describe some technical methods of such manipulations with the birds and present some preliminary results. These methods enable obtaining birds bred in the aviary for future programmes of reintroduction.