Wildlife Handling

Question 1

Why is the humane treatment of all animals essential for scientific inquires? (3 main points)

Answer 1

Traumatized animals:

• Are less likely to exhibit normal behavioural, physiological and ecological response
• Are less likely to survive (predation, injury)
• May compromise research data (altering observations)

Question 2

State 9 ethical considerations when using wildlife in research

Answer 2

1. Be FAMILIAR with the current literature and seek the advice of experienced peers before initiating a research project
2. Ensure safety and WELFARE of animals they study and handle, -treat all study animals with care and respect
3. Avoid/MINIMIZE distress & pain and reduce risks of injury or death
4. Promptly TREAT all injuries in the most appropriate and humane manner
5. REASSESS methodology whenever an injury or mortality occurs
6. MAXIMIZE the research potential of animals which are handled
7. Ensure DATA is accurate and complete
8. Use SMALLEST number of study animals necessary to satisfy goals of the investigation
9. Assess the IMPACT of their research on study populations and the environment, and minimize such impacts

Question 3

What is Capture Myopathy?

a. What is the single most important causation of capture myopathy?
b. Describe the 4 levels of capture myopathy.
c. What is the best treatment for capture myopathy?

Answer 3

A state of immobility brought on by extreme physical exercise or stress

a. Hyperthermia
b. Peracute Capture Myopathy

Death may occur in a matter of minutes due to low blood pH, acidosis, potassium release from damaged muscles and heart failure. There are few post-mortem signs

Acute Capture Myopathy

This is a less severe form of the above with the animal lingering before death. Muscle rupture may occur and the animal, if able to stand, will be ataxic. The condition could be confused with Enzootic Ataxia. Dearth occurs in 24 - 48 hrs.

Sub-Acute Capture Myopathy

Again a less severe form of the above with the acidosis causing muscle and kidney damage. The urine may be a dark brown colour. Recumbent animals often have their necks twisted back - known as “Wryneck” in New Zealand. Death takes a few days

Chronic Capture Myopathy

These animal survive several days or months but will often die suddenly from a heart attack.

c. Prevention is the only treatment for this condition. Once the condition starts it is always fatal.

Question 4

List 5 general considerations a researcher/monitor should evaluate prior to initiating a wildlife inventory/study on all wildlife species

Answer 4

1. If prolong pain or distress is anticipated – use sedation
2. Have full knowledge of all local, provincial and federal regulations pertaining to the animals under study + permits
3. Routinely inspect and replace/repair equipment
4. Avoid disturbance during sensitive periods (breeding, egg laying)
5. Save accidental mortalities - deposition in museum collections

Question 5

State 5 general guidelines for minimizing negative impacts of your research on mammals

Answer 5

1. Only approach animals as closely as required to satisfy objectives study without biasing data
2. Timing - avoid disturbing animals during their most sensitive periods
3. Review literature/consult others - identify best methods for specific species
4. Consistency in timing and intensity of visits - may alleviate some problems
5. Re-visit habituated individuals/populations

Question 6

When live trapping mammals, what are some of the precautions one should take? (6)

Answer 6

1. Avoid accidental capture of non-target species
2. Keep trapping and handling equipment in good working order
3. Traps should be shaded or positioned to avoid full exposure to the sun
4. Avoid trapping/netting in windy, cold and rainy weather
5. Avoid trapping individuals with dependent young
6. Animals should not be left in traps longer than is absolutely necessary

Question 7

When should harp nets be used for bats, and why? Mist nets?

Answer 7

Harp traps are preferable whenever a large number of bats is likely to be caught at a roost or cave entrance
- reduce trauma associated w/ mist nets

Mist nets

• small concentrations
• when they can be monitored continuously

Question 8

What are the possible negative ramifications of improperly restrained animals? (3)

Answer 8

• Major physiological disturbances, including hypothermia, hyperthermia, stress, shock and capture myopathy
• Alter behaviour and predispose them to predation
• Great potential for injury to animal or handler