Invasive species, particularly mammalian predators cause serious negative ecological and economic impacts across the globe. This thesis focuses on the American mink (Neovison vison), which is one of the most invasive vertebrate species in Europe; having negatively impacted on the populations of at least 47 native species in Europe alone. Although elimination of an invasive species is the most efficient way to protect native wildlife, it is often not possible and population control projects are frequently employed instead. In the UK, although a previous attempt to eliminate mink failed in the 1960’s, subsequent control projects across the country have succeeded.
However, traditional methods of detection are often imperfect and can have poor detection rates, both of which can ultimately lead to wasted effort and resources. The predominant method of detecting and controlling mink in the UK, by using rafts, is no exception in its imperfections. Raft monitoring requires substantial physical effort, native mustelid signs on rafts can be confused with American mink and the rafts can be easily damaged or lost. Detection of environmental DNA may provide a suitable alternative means of monitoring mink as its use has repeatedly proven to be a more sensitive and effective means of detection compared to traditional methods. Here, we provide an overview on the impact of mink, past mink control projects and the potential of eDNA in invasive species detection.