Few animals are as iconic as the camel. There are two main species of camel that are recognized; the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus), and the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius). Both species are large animals with an average height of 6-1/2 fe …

The Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) is a large ungulate that is native to Central Asia. These camels have two humps on their backs, distinguishing them from dromedary (or Arabian) camels (Camelus dromedarius) which have one hump. Bactrian camels …

For the purposes of translocation, diagnostic testing and medical treatment, chemical immobilization has become the preferred method of capture for large wildlife species. In the majority of cases, this has proven to be a safer, superior method to tr …

The chemical immobilization of Bactrian camels can become necessary for wildlife management, physiological study and research. The drugs used for chemical immobilization can adversely affect the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of these animals …

Capture and chemical immobilization events carry numerous risks to wildlife regardless of species or size, but these are often more pronounced when dealing with larger species such as Bactrian camels. These risks include complications such as capture …

Camelus bactrianus, or the Bactrian camel, inhabits parts of central Asia and western China. These animals are set apart from their more western-ranging relative, the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), in that Bactrian camels have two humps on th …

Although the majority of Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus) in the world have been largely domesticated, research, zoos and management programs occasionally require the capture and manipulation of these animals. The development of decreasingly inva …

The terms “anesthesia” and “sedation” are often used interchangeably, but there is a distinct difference between the two, as well as their effects. Anesthesia is a pharmacologically-induced, reversible state of amnesia, analgesia, loss of responsiven …

The term “immobilization” refers to any forced restriction of movement of all or part of an animal’s body, while “chemical immobilization” achieves this using drugs which have a range of intended effects. These may include unconsciousness with lack o …

The chemical immobilization of camels is may become necessary for a variety of reasons, including physiological study, research, and for the purposes of wildlife management. The drugs used for chemical immobilization can adversely affect the cardiova …

Chemical immobilization has become the chief method of capture for large wildlife species for the purposes of translocation, diagnostic testing and medical treatment. In most cases, it has proven to be a safer, superior method to traps, capture with …

Capture and chemical immobilization events carry inherent risks to wildlife regardless of species or size, but these are often more pronounced when dealing with larger species such as camels and other hoofstock. These risks include complications like …

Despite the fact that the majority of camels in the world have been largely domesticated, research, zoos and management programs can require the capture and manipulation of these animals. The development of non- and minimally invasive procedures over …

“Anesthesia” is a pharmacologically-induced reversible state of amnesia, analgesia, loss of responsiveness, and loss of skeletal muscle reflexes. In contrast, “sedation” is a pharmacologically-induced depression of consciousness during which an anima …

Veterinarians, wildlife managers and researchers sometimes need to immobilize camels to mark them for identification, provide veterinary treatment or to perform management functions. The term “immobilization” references any forced restriction of move …

The Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) is native to the steppes of Central Asia. They are migratory, with habitats that range from rocky foothills to deserts. These are areas with extremely harsh conditions where vegetation tends to be sparse and wa …

It is likely that few animals are as well-recognized around the world as the camel. There are three recognized species of camel: the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), which is the most widespread; the Bactrian camel (C. bactrianus)and the wild B …

Camels are large, hoofed ruminants that are native to northern Africa and Asia; they have been long noted and valued for their ability to go for long periods without both food and water. The dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), also known as the Ar …

Adapted to the harsh conditions of the Middle East and Central Asia, camels have been so widely used as pack animals in these regions over the past 3,500 years that the majority of camels have been domesticated.1 There are three recognized species of …

Camels are even-toed ungulates that inhabit the desert areas of western Asia and central and east Asia. There are two main species of camel: the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries, or the Arabian camel) and the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus). …

Inhabiting the desert areas of western Asia and central and east Asia, camels are even-toed ungulates comprised of two main species: the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedaries, or the Arabian camel) and the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus). The Bact …

Camels include any of three species of large hoofed ruminants that inhabit northern Africa and Asia which are known for their ability to go for long periods without water. The Arabian, or dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) has one back hump, while …

There are few wild species that are as iconic as the camel. There are three recognized species of camel; these are the dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius), the Bactrian camel (Camelus bactrianus) and the wild Bactrian camel (C. ferus). Approximatel …

The nyala is a large antelope that is found in the eastern part of southern Africa. There are two subspecies of nyala; the lowland nyala (Tragelaphus agasi) and the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni). “Nyala” is the Swahili name for this antelope, …

The word “antelope” is used to describe a wide variety of horned mammals in the Families Bovidae and Antilocapridae. Antelope males and the females of some species have unbranched horns that attach to the frontal bones of the skull.The sable antelope …

The African sable (Hippotragus niger) is an antelope that inhabits the savannah of East Africa below Kenya and down into South Africa. The sable is included among the subfamily Hippotragus, meaning “horse antelope.”1 Antelopes within this subfamily a …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is considered one of Africa’s most visually striking antelopes. Its build, mane and gain has led to its inclusion in the “horse antelope” genus (Hippotragini).1There are four subspecies of sable: Black sable (also Masti …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus)is a medium-sized antelope that inhabits the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld regions of South Africa, and it is the most common antelope in these areas. They also tend to inhabit areas close to …

Known for their iconic appearance and spectacular leaps, the impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a widely-distributed African ungulate comprised of several subspecies. Impala are most often found in Kenya, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Zambia, Botswana, and Southern …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a medium-sized antelope inhabiting the bushveld regions of South Africa and the savannas of eastern and southern Africa, and is the most common antelope in these areas. Impala are reddish-brown in color with lighter …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a widely-distributed African ungulate comprised of several subspecies. The most common in East Africa is Aepyceros melampus rendilis; Aepyceros melampus petersi, the black-faced impala, is distributed further south. …

The Impala (Aepyceros melampus) is the most common antelope of the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld regions of South Africa. Like other antelopes, it is a member of the family Bovidae, and the only member of the subfamily (or …

Known for their spectacular and iconic leaps when alarmed or pursued by predators, the impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a widely-distributed African ungulate comprised of several subspecies. The most common in East Africa is Aepyceros melampus rendilis …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is the most common antelope of the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld regions of South Africa. Known for its agility and spectacular leaps when startled or evading predators, it is a member of the …

The sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) inhabits the savannah woodlands in southeastern Africa, with isolated populations of sable in Angola, Zimbabwe, northeastern Botswana, Mozambique, the northeastern part of the Caprivi Strip in Namibia and South …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is a widely-distributed African ungulate that is comprised of several subspecies. The most common in East Africa is Aepyceros melampus rendilis; Aepyceros melampus petersi, the black-faced impala, is distributed furthe …

The iconic impala (Aepyceros melampus) occupies the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld regions of South Africa and is the most common antelope in these areas. As with other antelopes, it is a member of the family Bovidae, and th …

The impala, (Aepyceros melampus) is a swift, agile antelope, and the most abundant ruminant in the savannas of eastern and southern Africa. It is often seen in large breeding herds closely shepherded by a territorial male. The impala can be described …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is one of the most well-recognized and widely-distributed antelopes of the African savannah. Known for their spectacular and iconic leaps when alarmed or pursued by predators, the impala is comprised of of several subs …

Comprised of several subspecies, the impala (Aepyceros melampus) is one of the most well-known and widespread of the African ungulates. Often known (and photographed) for their spectacular leaps, impala are most often found in Kenya, Zimbabwe, Uganda …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is one of the most widely-distributed African antelopes, and one of the most dominant species of antelope on the African savannah. Known for their spectacular, iconic leaps when alarmed or pursued by predators, this an …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is probably the most well-known of the African antelopes. Residing in the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld regions of South Africa, the impala is the most widespread and common antelope in these …

The impala (Aepyceros melampus) is the most widespread antelope of the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and the bushveld of South Africa.1 It is a medium-sized antelope with slender, well-developed legs and a long neck. The impala stands 28–36 …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is an African antelope of stout build, short neck, long face, and dark a mane. Both males and females have long, ringed horns that rise and curve backward. They are members of the Hippotraginae family, due to their horse …

The sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) is found in the savannah woodlands in southeastern Africa, with isolated populations in Angola. In southern Africa, they occur in Zimbabwe, northeastern Botswana, scattered subpopulations in Mozambique, the nort …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is a large African antelope of stout build with a long face, short neck, and dark mane.1Sable have very large, ringed horns which rise upward and curve backward. Both males and females have horns, but those of the female …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is an African antelope that belongs to the Hippotraginae subfamily, largely owing to its horse-like, stout build and stance.1 Both males and females have long, ringed horns that rise and curve backward. Apart from the ho …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is one of the most impressive African antelopes. Like other antelope, they are members of the family Bovidae, but are also included in the subfamily Hippotragini. The latter literally means “horse goat”, and designates a …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is a large antelope that inhabits the savannah of East Africa below Kenya and into South Africa. They are members of the Hippotraginae subfamily, due to their horse-like build and erect mane that is found on the neck of …

The savannah woodlands in southeastern Africa are home to the sable antelope (Hippotragus niger). There are also isolated populations of sable in Angola, Zimbabwe, northeastern Botswana, Mozambique, the northeastern part of the Caprivi Strip in Namib …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is a barrel-chested antelope with a long face, short neck, and dark mane. They have ringed horns which rise vertically and curve backward. Both male and female sable have horns, although those of the females tend to be s …

The sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) is one of Africa’s most visually impressive antelopes. Its inclusion in the “horse antelope” genus (Hippotragini) is due to its compact, sturdy build, erect mane and thick neck.1 Sable bulls have glossy black co …

The sable (Hippotragus niger) is one of Africa’s most visually striking antelopes. Its compact, sturdy build, erect mane and thick neck has led to its inclusion in the “horse antelope” genus (Hippotragini).1 Both male and female sable have scimitar-s …

The African sable (Hippotragus niger) is an antelope that inhabits the savannah of East Africa below Kenya and into South Africa. They are members of the Hippotraginae family, due to their horse-like build and erect mane that is found on the neck of …

Research, conservation and management programs often require the capture and manipulation of antelope and other large hoofstock. The development of non- and minimally invasive procedures over the years have allowed researchers, zookeepers, veterinari …

Antelopes encompass a wide variety of horned mammals in the Families Bovidae and Antilocapridae. Antelope males and the females of some species have unbranched horns that attach to the frontal bones of the skull.Antelope vary widely in size; the roya …

The nyala is a member of the spiral-horned antelope genus that includes the kudu and eland. More slightly-built than these antelopes, the nyala is noted for its extreme sexual dimorphism and specialized habitat and feeding preferences that limit its …

Chemical immobilization events present risks to wildlife regardless of size or species, but these are more pronounced when dealing with larger species such as antelope and other hoofstock in the field. Associated risks include complications such as a …

Found across southern Africa, the nyala is a member of the spiral-horned antelope genus (Tragelaphus) that includes the kudu and eland. There are two subspecies of nyala: the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni), and the lowland nyala(Tragelaphus aga …

The Nyala is a large antelope that inhabits the dense forest and thick bush in areas of southern Africa. Since they do not have the running ability of other African antelopes, they are uncomfortable in open spaces and most often seen near water holes …

The nyala is a member of the spiral-horned antelope genus that includes the kudu and eland. More slightly-built than these antelopes, the nyala is noted for its sexual dimorphism and specialized habitat and feeding preferences that limit its distribu …

The nyala is a large, slender antelope of that inhabits areas of southeastern Africa. It is a member of the spiral-horned antelope genus Tragelaphini (family Bovidae), which also includes the eland and the kudu. The nyala is noted for its sexual dimo …

The nyala is a large antelope that lives in the eastern part of southern Africa. The name “nyala” is the Swahili name for this antelope, which is derived from the Zulu word "inyala."1 The nyala consists of two subspecies, the lowland nyala (Tragelaph …

The chemical immobilization of kudu antelope is often necessary for a variety of reasons, including physiological study, research, and for the purposes of wildlife management. However, immobilizing drugs can adversely affect the cardiovascular …

The nyala is a spiral-horned antelope that is native to Southern Africa. It is a species of the family Bovidae and genus Tragelaphus and was first described in 1849 by George French Angas.1 The nyala’s coat is a rusty brown in females and juveniles, …

The nyala is found in the eastern part of southern Africa. There are two subspecies of nyala: The lowland nyala (Tragelaphus agasi), and the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni). These antelope typically live near dense brush and on the fringes of fo …

The nyala is a large antelope that is found in the eastern part of southern Africa. Comprised of two subspecies, the lowland nyala (Tragelaphus agasi) and the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni), these antelope live near areas of dense brush and on …

The kudu is one of the most magnificent among the African antelopes, largely due to the male’s large, spiraling horns. There are two species of kudu: The lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis) and the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros). Female kudu …

The kudu is one of the largest African antelopes. There are two subspecies of kudu: the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), and the lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis). The kudu is considered to be the most handsome of the tragelaphine antelopes, …

The capture of wild animals is a highly stressful event which has the potential to cause capture-induced complications, some of which can result in morbidity or mortality. There are a number of zoological societies, universities and other organizatio …

The nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) is a member of the spiral-horned antelope genus that includes the kudu and eland. More slightly-built than these antelopes, the nyala is noted for its extreme sexual dimorphism and specialized habitat and feeding prefe …

Research, zoo applications, conservation and management programs can require the capture and manipulation of kudu antelope. The development of non- and minimally invasive procedures have allowed researchers, veterinarians and management personnel to …

The kudu is one of the most stunning of the large African antelopes. The name “kudu” is derived from the Afrikaans language (The Afrikaans term “koedoe” being a combination the words for zebra and deer).1 There are two species of kudu; the lesser kud …

Chemical Immobilization: Human Safety and Accidental Exposure is one of the courses covering the principles of and techniques relating to chemical immobilization, pharmacology and drug delivery systems offered by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alli …

Chemical Immobilization Pharmacology: Tranquilizers is one among many courses offered by the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques. Such courses are typically taken by those who are intereste …

The kudu is one of the most spectacular of the African antelopes. It has been described as one of the most striking in the antelope family, largely due to the male’s large, spiraling horns. Female kudu have short horns, while the horns of the males g …

Many situations are encountered in the field and in zoos where the capture and restraint of wildlife is required. Improved understanding of the margins of safe capture, chemical immobilization, and handling of animals for research and management has …

Chemical immobilization is the chief method of capture for large wildlife species for the purposes of translocation, diagnostic testing or medical treatment. In zoos, farms, breeding facilities and free-ranging situations, chemical immobilization is …

The kudu is one of Africa’s largest antelopes. There are two subspecies of kudu: the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), and the lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis). The greater kudu is second in size to Africa’s largest antelope, the eland. The …

Animal restraint and handling is integral to agriculture, the pet care industry, wildlife management, animal control, scientific and biological research, zoological societies and the veterinary industry. The scope of need and the reasons for restrain …

The nyala is a dense forest- and thick bush-dwelling antelope that is found in the eastern part of southern Africa. There are two subspecies of nyala: The lowland nyala (Tragelaphus agasi), and the mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni).These antelope …

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is among the zoological societies, universities and other organizations in the US that offer education in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques for those who are interested in pursuing careers in …

Capture and/or chemical immobilization events carry inherent risks to wildlife regardless of size or species, but these risks are often more pronounced when dealing with larger species, particularly in the field. Included in these risk factors is the …

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is among several zoological societies, universities and organizations that offer education in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques for those who are interested in pursuing careers in veterinary m …

The kudu is one of the largest African antelopes. There are two subspecies: the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros),and the lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis). The former is second in size to the eland, Africa’s largest antelope. The greater kudu …

Antelope comprise around 90 of the approximately 140 known species of the Bovidae family (e.g., sheep, goats, domesticated cattle). Antelope belong to the order Artiodactyla, the most distinctive feature being their even number of hooves. The kudu is …

Some zoological societies, universities and other organizations offer education in safe capture chemical immobilizationtechniques for those who are interested in careers in veterinary medicine, wildlife management, biology, zoology, animal control an …

The kudu is considered to be one of the most striking and majestic of the African antelopes, largely due to the male’s large, spiraling horns. There are two species of kudu: The lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis) and the greater kudu (Tragelaphus str …

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is among several organizations that offer education in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques for those who are interested in or who are pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, wildlife management …

The chemical immobilization of antelope can require extended periods of immobility in the captured animal. Hypothermia is an inherent risk to any animal undergoing chemical immobilization regardless of ambient temperature, and frostbite is an even gr …

Darts used to chemically immobilize wild animals come in a variety of sizes, volumes and configurations depending upon the remote delivery system being used. Dart guns are commonly available in rifle, shotgun and pistol models. Dart guns usually empl …

There are a number of zoological societies, universities and other organizations that offer education in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques for those who are interested in or who are pursuing careers in veterinary medicine, wildlife mana …

Since the remote capture of wild animals involves a substantial investment in time, effort and money, remote injection systems must be efficient and reliable.1 Precision, and therefore the capability of the operator, are of crucial importance, since …

Immobilization is the restriction of movement of all or part of an animal’s body by physical or chemical means. It is used to facilitate management of animals and is a common practice in many animal management procedures.Wildlife researchers often ne …

The kudu is considered one of the most spectacular of the African antelopes, largely due to its size and the male’s large, spiraling horns, which grow up to 1.8 meters. The greater kudu has a larger body size, with a height ranging between 1.3 and 1. …

Restraint is the use of manual, mechanical or chemical means to limit some or all of an animal's normal voluntary movement for the purposes of examination, collection of samples, drug administration, therapy, or manipulation.1 In general, restraint i …

There are several different methods for the delivery of immobilizing agents (drugs) to free-ranging and captive wild animals. Among these are hand held syringes, pole syringes and projected darts or syringes (remote delivery systems). The decision as …

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA) is among the zoological societies that offer education in safe capture chemical immobilization techniques for those who are interested in or who are pursuing careers as a veterinarian, wildlife biologist, w …

The nature of wild and exotic animals nearly always necessitates the use of chemical immobilization for their handling and manipulation. Anesthetizing wild and exotic animals is typically done for the purposes of research, wildlife management, animal …

Kudu are comprised of two species of spiral-horned antelopes The larger greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) is second in size to the largest African antelope, the eland. Males have a beard and have the longest horns of any antelope, at 47–71 inch …

Capture myopathy (also called exertional capture myopathy or exertional rhabdomyolysis) is a non-infectious but life-threatening syndrome of wild or domestic animals in which muscle damage results from extreme exertion. It often occurs as a result of …

The kudu is a large African antelope that consists of two subspecies: the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), and the lesser kudu (Tragelaphus imberbis). The greater kudu is second in size to the eland, Africa’s largest antelope. Both subspecies …

There is no one drug nor class of drugs that are universally employed to tranquilize animals in veterinary medicine. Sedatives and tranquilizers play an important role in the veterinary practice, as well as in veterinary procedures involving wild ani …

In veterinary medicine, sedatives and tranquilizers are commonly used in animals to produce calmness, for chemical restraint, and as an adjunct to general anesthesia.1 In general, tranquilization reduces anxiety and induces a sense of tranquility wit …

Capture-recapture methods have a long history in the study of fish and wildlife populations. The simplest of these techniques is known as the two-sample model, which is used to estimate the unknown size of a population. The first sample provides indi …

Chemical restraint is often necessary when dealing with both domestic and exotic animals. In the former, this generally includes routine procedures on companion, work and performance large and small animals. In the latter, it includes both major and …

Zoos have been around for many centuries in various forms. Wall carvings found in Egypt and Mesopotamia suggest that aristocrats created menageries as early as 2500 BCE, and retained records of expeditions to distant lands where exotic animals were c …

The bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) is an African antelope species found in the lowland forests from Sierra Leone in West Africa, through Central Africa and as far as southern Sudan in east Africa. Small populations also live in the montane (highland f …

The bongo is the largest and most colorful of the forest African antelopes. Males range in weight from 240 to 405 kilograms, while the females weigh between 210 and 235 kilograms. Female and juvenile bongo are chestnut red with darker legs. Males sta …

Using the Mark and Recapture (or “Capture-Mark-Recapture”) technique, biologists, researchers or wildlife management personnel use various methods to capture animals and subsequently mark them. The methods used for marking vary depending upon the spe …

Unlike earlier times in human history, the need for capturing wild animals today extends far beyond the need for clothing and food. Today, the capture of wild species for research and conservation projects is a concern that is widely shared globally. …

It is often necessary for biologists and wildlife managers to estimate the population size of wild animal species. Knowing whether population is increasing or decreasing is integral to conservation management, and essential in cases of threatened or …

The bongo antelope (Tragelaphus eurycerus) is found in the lowland forests from Sierra Leone in West Africa, through Central Africa and as far as southern Sudan in east Africa. There are also small populations also living in the highland forests of K …

The Mark-Recapture technique is a method used to estimate the size of populations, and the population dynamics of wild animals when it is impractical (or impossible) to physically examine each individual animal. Sometimes called Capture-Mark-Recaptur …

When wildlife biologists require absolute estimates of a population size, they rely on alternative approaches to those based on a count of animals within a fixed unit of a habitat. One such approach is the mark recapture method (also referred to as “ …

The bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) the largest and most colorful of the African forest antelopes. It is also the third heaviest antelope, after the giant eland and common eland.1 The bongo has relatively short legs and hind legs that are higher and mo …

Bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) are large, forest-living antelopes that are noted for their striking reddish-brown coats with 10-15 vertical white stripes and a thin mane along their back. There are two sub-species of bongo: the Lowland bongo (the West …

Estimating population size is a fundamental objective of many wildlife management programs. The conservation and management of wild animal populations requires knowledge of their dynamics and the associated environmental influences.1 Management often …

The chemical immobilization of bongo antelope in the field is associated with more risks than in a clinical or zoo setting. In most cases, these animals cannot be examined with regards to their health status beforehand and they often cannot receive a …

Wild animals are regularly captured for a variety of reasons, some of which include conservation efforts, breeding programs, relocation and research. In areas in which the habitats of humans and wild animals overlap, the reason for capture can become …

The bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) is a large forest-living African antelope. Bongo are found in montane rain forests with dense undergrowth. They thrive at the forest edge and in new growth areas that occur after disturbances. Eastern (or mountain …

The practice of capturing wild animals is as old as human existence. Methods for animal capture predate recorded history, and were largely predicated upon communities’ need for food and clothing. Today, the reasons for the capture of wild species are …

Veterinarians are often called upon to help capture wild animals unharmed, to relocate animals and to safely release animals from traps during the course of their work. This may include veterinarians who are consulted by animal control personnel, vet …

Game animals are wild animals which are typically hunted for food or other resources, or for sport,1 and capture in this context means the restraint of such animals. The reasons which necessitate wildlife game vary widely, often depending on the geog …

Every year, millions of wild animals are captured as part of damage and disease control programs, population regulation activities, wildlife management efforts, and research studies.1 Many areas of animal capture—particularly those associated with pr …

The bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) is an African antelope species characterized by prominent colors and long, spiral horns. Bongos have a reddish-brown coat with 10-15 vertical white stripes and a thin mane running along their back. Their legs have bl …

The Bongo (Tragelaphus eurycerus) is the largest of Africa’s forest antelopes. It is nocturnal, and has two subspecies: the western or lowland bongo, and the eastern or mountain bongo. The western bongo is considered threatened and the mountain bongo …

Wild animal trainers teach and train exotic animals in numerous settings, including scientific venues, zoos, aquariums, animal parks and other facilities. Additionally, some trainers find work in the entertainment industry, training animals as perfor …

Whether or not a wild animal needs to be chemically immobilized is generally a function of accessibility to the animal, the potential risks to the animal and its handlers associated with handling it, and the degree of invasiveness of the procedures i …

When discussing animal capture techniques, or more specifically, wildlife capture techniques, two types of capture are being referenced: physical capture and chemical immobilization. Physical capture broadly describes the use of devices such as traps …

Animal capture (or wildlife capture) is an event in which an animal is caught and restrained to varying degrees by humans. Reasons for wildlife captures vary widely: marking, collaring with tracking devices, disease surveillance, translocations relat …

Numerous wildlife capture and handling education programs currently exist, covering a wide array of areas. These can include, but are not limited to training for:Persons working in or preparing to work in commercial facilities that display and/or car …

Wild and exotic animals are far more susceptible to stress and injury during capture, handling and restraint than domestic species, even in a zoo setting, wherein they have often been largely acclimatized to captivity. Even relatively minor procedure …

The Bongo antelope belongs to the genus Tragelaphus, which includes the Sitatunga, Nyala, Bushbuck, Mountain Nyala, Lesser Kudu and Greater Kudu. Bongo are further catalogued into the two subspecies Tragelaphus eurycerus eurycerus, the lowland or Wes …

The bongo is a large forest-living antelope that lives in the lowland forests of West Africa to southern Sudan, with small populations occupying some highland forests of Kenya and the Congo. Bongo have a reddish-brown coat with 10-15 vertical white s …

Bongo antelope (Tragelaphus eurycerus) are the largest and most colorful of the forest African antelopes. They are found mostly in the lowland forests of West Africa where they reside among the ground level shrubs and bushes, with smaller populations …

The bongo antelope is a large, forest-living antelope that lives in the lowland forests of Zaire and West Africa to southern Sudan, with small populations also living in the highland forests of Kenya and also in the Congo. Currently, all bongo are co …

There are many reasons that individuals opt for education in animal care and handling. Many areas have local health codes which require that all pet shops or businesses that sell, groom or board cats, dogs or other small animals must have someone wit …

Wildlife capture is essentially the use of systems and devices to capture wildlife species for a variety of purposes, including food, wildlife management, research, relocation and pest control. In some cases, this may also include the capture of cert …

Capture myopathy is a life-threatening condition that can occur in animals when muscle damage results from extreme exertion or prolonged struggle. It is often identified as exertional myopathy, overstraining disease and exertional rhabdomyolysis.1 Ca …

Wildlife veterinarians are licensed medical professionals who specialize in treating many different types of wildlife, including birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. They may work in a veterinary office setting, in the field or a combination of …

Caring for wild animals is different than caring for domesticated animals and companion animals (pets) and requires specialized training and experience. From a veterinary medical perspective, it is a challenge to diagnose and treat patients that not …

Wild animals are captured, handled and housed in a wide variety of contexts, including management, conservation and scientific research. Animals are often subjected to similar procedures and risks of compromised welfare from capture, anesthesia, hand …

The word “antelope” is used to describe a wide variety of horned mammals in the Families Bovidae and Antilocapridae. Antelope males (and the females of some species) have unbranched horns that attach to the frontal bones of the skull.Antelope vary wi …

Depending on the area in which they function, animal control officers can be called upon to interact with wildlife on a regular basis. In suburban, rural and semi-rural regions where various where the habitats of humans and wildlife species overlap, …

Research, zoo applications, conservation and management programs can require the capture and manipulation of antelope. The development of non- and minimally invasive procedures over the years have allowed researchers, veterinarians and management per …

Antelope are a diverse collection of ruminants of the families Antilocapridae and Bovidae. The bongo is a large forest-living antelope that lives in the lowland forests of Zaire and West Africa to southern Sudan. There are also small populations in t …

Wildlife managers, researchers and veterinarians in zoo settings sometimes need to immobilize antelope to mark them for identification, to provide veterinary treatment or to relocate them from dangerous or overpopulated locations. While the term “imm …

The chemical immobilization of antelope is often necessary for a variety of reasons, including physiological study, research, and for the purposes of wildlife management. However, immobilizing drugs can adversely affect the cardiovascular and respira …

Capture and/or chemical immobilization events carry inherent risks to wildlife regardless of size or species, but these risks are often more pronounced when dealing with larger species such as antelope and other hoofstock in the field. During capture …

Apart from traps, capture with nets and the mass-capture of herds of animals, chemical immobilization has become the chief method of capture for large wildlife species for the purposes of translocation, diagnostic testing or medical treatment. In zoo …

The chemical immobilization of antelope can require extended periods of immobility in the captured animal, particularly as regards antelope species in North America and other areas of the Northern Hemisphere. While hypothermia is an inherent risk to …

Antelope are very widespread animals, comprising around 90 of the approximately 140 known species of the Bovidaefamily (which includes sheep, goats, and domesticated cattle). Antelope belong to the order Artiodactyla, the most distinctive feature of …

Shock is a critical condition that is brought on by a sudden drop in blood flow throughout an animal’s body. Shock can be the result of a wide variety of conditions or circumstances, including extreme physical stress, trauma, disease, heatstroke, blo …

Bloat is a serious condition that is fatal if left untreated. In veterinary medicine, it is frequently seen in large dogs and is known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, or GDV, and can occur spontaneously. Bloat occurs when an animal's stomach fills wi …

Field immobilization of antelope is sometimes required for medical examination, blood sample collection, and animal identification, and the importance of performing such procedures for research and conservation projects is widely acknowledged.1 As th …

Cardiac arrest, or cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) is characterized by an abrupt, complete failure of the respiratory and circulatory systems. The subsequent lack of oxygen transport can quickly cause systemic cellular death from oxygen depletion.1 If l …

Capture myopathy (CM) is a serious condition that can occur in wild and domestic animals wherein muscle damage results from extreme exertion, struggle, or stress. It is also known as exertional myopathy, overstraining disease and exertional rhabdomyo …

“Antelope” is a common name that has been ascribed to various members of the family Antilocapridae and Bovidae. The pronghorn antelope, Antilocapra americana, is the only member in the Antilocapridae family.1 Antelope males and the females of some sp …

Aspiration is described as when a foreign substance enters the airway or lungs; this can apply to food, liquid, or other materials. Aspiration can give rise to serious health problems, such as pneumonia. Aspiration can occur when a human or animal ha …

Vomiting is one of the more common post-sedation and post-anesthesia complications in both domestic and exotic animals. Vomiting once or twice after a surgical procedure can be considered normal however, if the vomiting continues, it can be a sign of …

Managing white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) often requires the live capture of individual animals, and chemical immobilization often is the most effective method of capture.1 Throughout the modern history of the chemical immobilization of wil …

Gastric ulcers (often referenced as gastroduodenal ulcer disease) in dogs refers to ulcers found in the dog's stomach and/or the first section of the small intestine, also known as the duodenum.1 The gastric mucosal barrier in the dog’s digestive tra …

One of the most challenging aspects of wildlife veterinary medicine is the process of determining the correct dosages for wildlife species when providing chemical immobilization. Chemical immobilization is a form of animal restraint in which medicati …

Wildlife practice is an extremely specialized area of veterinary medicine, and restraint nearly always requires the use of anesthetic drugs to allow a safe and efficient immobilization before the practitioner proceeds with plans for the targeted indi …

Mink are members of the weasel family and are native to the Northern Hemisphere. Historically, both the American mink (Neovison vison) and the European mink (Mustela lutreola) have been valued for their fur. The American mink is a staple of the fur i …

Anesthesia is an integral part of exotic animal medicine, whether in the field, or in research or zoo settings. Even the most basic procedures typically require sedation or anesthesia, since most animals are either too shy, fast, or dangerous to hand …

The family Mustelidae comprises stoats, polecats, mink, fishers, wolverines, weasels, martens, badgers, and otters, and is the largest family within the order Carnivora. Mustelids have a global distribution, with members found on every continent exce …

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are the smallest members of the North American deer family, and are found from southern Canada to South America. Favoring wooded areas, the home range of a White-tailed deer is usually less than one square m …

There are numerous drug and drug combinations that are used for the remote immobilization of wildlife species, but only a few have become standards amongst veterinarians and wildlife managers. For years, many large wildlife species have been remotely …

In recent decades, conservation efforts and the endangered status of certain wildlife species have become more prominent among wildlife biologists and lay persons alike. Innumerable conservation efforts focused on wild animals (including mammals and …

The chemical immobilization of wild animals is a form of veterinary anesthesia conducted under difficult circumstances.1Historically, chemical immobilization can be traced back to certain tribes from South America who used curare-coated arrows in the …

These days, a cursory web search will show that there are literally hundreds of safe capture chemical immobilization courses being offered in the U.S. alone. Typically sponsored by universities, zoos and wildlife management bureaus, these courses off …

Field wildlife anesthesia is often necessary for both invasive and noninvasive procedures. Typically, anesthesia for noninvasive procedures is utilized for the safety of the handlers and animals. Further, anesthesia and analgesia are crucial componen …

Capturing and chemically immobilizing a bear can be the most traumatic incident of its life, thus, it is extremely important to justify all capture and trapping procedures. Anyone involved in the chemical immobilization of bear or any wildlife should …

An interest in llamas and alpacas as pets, breeding and pack animals has led to increased demand for veterinary services for these animals. Despite having certain unique species characteristics regarding anesthesia, many of the principles and techniq …

The improvement of chemical capture protocols and procedures is an important part of wildlife conservation and animal welfare, in order to minimize distress and the risk of morbidity and mortality in these animals. Throughout history, people have bee …

Chemical restraint (with or without local anesthesia) has long been used to perform diagnostic or minor surgical procedures in small ruminants. However, anesthetic and analgesic techniques are required when specific diagnostic procedures and painful …

Milk has been an important food source for humans since the domestication of dairy animals began. It is a common component of the animal-derived food products that comprise many diets. Methods to ensure the safety and quality of goat milk and milk pr …

Ovine foot rot is a costly disease in the sheep industry, with producers losing time and money each year in their attempts to control this condition in their flocks. When foot rot becomes a problem on a farm, it takes a great deal of effort to contro …

Field anesthesia is often necessary for both invasive and noninvasive procedures on wild animals. For invasive procedures, the potential for immediate and lasting pain must be addressed and appropriate analgesia provided. In situations where the mini …

Many procedures that are regularly carried out in domestic animals with minimal restraint require sedation or anesthesia for the safety of the exotic animal, the veterinarian and support staff. This is true whether the exotic animal is captive (in a …

Moose (Alces alces) is the largest member of the deer family; they are found in the northern regions of Eurasia and North America. While the Eurasian and American moose are very similar, the American moose is somewhat larger and is considered by some …

The Leopard (Panthera pardus) is the most widely distributed large wild cat, and occupies a broad variety of habitats, ranging from rainforests to deserts and from the fringes of urban areas to remote mountain ranges.1 The Indian subspecies, Panthera …

The sedation and immobilization of giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) is a tricky proposition due to a combination of problems often encountered in such procedures that can result in mortality or morbidity to the animal.1 Giraffes have a unique anatomy …

Goats can suffer from numerous diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites as well as non-infectious agents. Diagnosing disease conditions in the goat can be difficult, since many diseases manifest similarly in this species. However, the progress …

Diseases of farm and feedlot animals regularly threaten the lives of millions of livestock. These animals are relied upon in the food supply, meaning that massive losses can lead to widespread food shortages. In March of 2018, 73,500 chickens were cu …

Elk (Cervus elaphus canadensis) are the largest subspecies of red deer (Cervus elaphus), found in North America and in the high mountains of Central Asia. Also called wapiti, elk are members of the deer family, Cervidae (order Artiodactyla). Recent g …

The mountain lion (Puma concolor) is the largest wild felid in the North American continent. It is also frequently known as the cougar or puma. Mountain lions are obligate carnivores that can be found in varied habitats in the U.S. and Canada, althou …

Bobcats (Lynx rufus) are approximately twice as the size of the average housecat. They have long legs, large paws, and tufted ears similar to those of their larger relative, the Canada lynx. Bobcats are brown or brownish-red with a white belly and a …

The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is found throughout the Arctic region. These animals travel long distances over vast expanses, often on drifting oceanic ice floes, searching for seals, their primary prey. Polar bears are stocky in build, with a long …

Veterinarians generally agree that the cat is truly a “different breed of cat” when it comes to responses to disease and medical treatment in the small animal clinic. Dogs and cats are most often seen in the small animal veterinary practice, but asid …

Xylazine (xylazine HCl) is an α-2 adrenergic agonist that is commonly used for its sedative and analgesic properties in a variety of species.1 Xylazine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in dogs, cats, horses, deer, an …

Capturing, immobilizing, and fitting for radio collars are common practices in studies of large mammals. However, many species of large mammals exist in remnant or “island-like” populations in which there is little or no gene flow.1 Concern amongst r …

The iconic cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is one of the most highly-specialized and effective hunters in nature. As recently as 1900, it had a vast geographic range that spanned Africa, the Middle East and across Asia into the Indian subcontinent.1 Durin …

Nondomestic ruminants such as deer can be encountered in the wild, on exotic animal or cervid ranches on breeding farms, and in zoos or petting farms. In order to handle or treat species of deer, most require manual restraint using a hydraulic squeez …

Worms and other gastrointestinal parasites are very common in cats, and are among the most detrimental things that can impact a cat's overall health. Not only can certain worms eat away at the intestines, but they can also poach vital nutrients from …

Coccidia is a protozoan that infects the intestinal tract of cats and other species, causing coccidiosis. In cats, most coccidia encountered are of the genus called Isospora. Isospora felis and Isospora rivolta are the most common species of coccidia …

Coccidiosis is an intestinal tract infection caused by one-celled protozoa called coccidia. In cats, most coccidia encountered are of the genus called Isospora, with Isospora felis and Isospora rivolta being the most common species of coccidia affect …

Attention to detail in preparing for the capture or immobilization of deer may be the greatest predictor of a successful outcome. Anxiety, anticipation of danger, unfamiliar environments and crowded conditions can cause stress in animals and are usua …