Captive Wildlife Research Articles

<i>Denunciafauna</i> – A social media campaign to evaluate wildlife crime and law enforcement in Peru

General Public Complaint Against Captive Wildlife),in short Denunciafauna, ran from April 2014 to April 2017 as an experiment to empirically assess the capacity of Peruvian wildlife authorities to address animal trafficking. We used a political ecology activist research framework, where the campaign is part of research examining on-the-ground responses to complaints and opportunities for collaboration with civil society.During the campaign we collected information on 179 cases of wildlife crime involving animals, from which 214 official complaints were made. These cases involved thousands of illegally held and traded individuals. The official complaints included the illegal possession of animals at tourist attractions,in private homes, markets, circuses, street vendors, and as part of initiatives authorized by the State. Forty-four per cent of the complaints did not result in any type of intervention by the wildlife authorities. In a further 26% of cases we, the complainants, have not been informed of the results of the complaint. Thirty per cent of complaints resulted in the confiscation of all or some of the animals involved, but only 7% of all reported cases led to an official investigation by the public prosecutor, and of these, only 3% (7cases) resulted in a court appearance with a sentence given or pending. We describe 'typical' cases which illustrate some of the quantitative results.These quantitative results, cases presented, and participative observation methodologies were used to examine the main limitations of wildlife authorities in Peru. Chronic deficiencies have consistently resulted in the very limited responses of Peruvian wildlife authorities to attend to official complaints and their inability to provide efficient and proportionate responses to wildlife crime, and, in some cases, to even promote or participate in illicit activities. However, pressure and support from civil society can significantly improve authorities' performances.

Identifikasi Telur Cacing pada Saluran Pencernaan Satwa Liar yang Dipelihara Masyarakat di Manokwari, Papua Barat

Investment of parasitic worms of captive wildlife was an impact on their health condition. This study was conducted to determine the intensity of parasitic worm infection in wild animals kept by communities in Manokwari, West Papua. The Natif method was used, by centrifuge of 20 birds and 20 mammals (Kangaroo and Deer) faeces collected from the sites. Sampling was carried out from October to November 2016. The analysis of collected faecal samples showed that bird species were not indicated (negatively infected by worm). In mammals, Nematodes and cestodes were found. Identification of existing findings showed that 3 (three) types of worm eggs were found, namely Taenia sp in kangaroos (Macropodidae), Ascaris sp (berembrio), and stronyle sp in deer (Cervus timorensis). The highest parasites intensity was stronyle sp (10 worm eggs) and the lowest intensity was Ascaris sp (3 worm eggs) .The rate of infection and investment of parasitic worm eggs in wild animals in Manokwari was categorised relatively low.

Polar bear-adapted Ursidibacter maritimus are remarkably conserved after generations in captivity.

Most species in the bacterial family of Pasteurellaceae colonize one specific host species. Vertebrates of very different evolutionary descent including fish, turtles, marsupials, eutherians and birds are colonized by different members of Pasteurellaceae. This one-to-one microbial-host species partnership makes Pasteurellaceae species valuable candidates to study biodiversity, bacterial-host co-evolution and host adaptation, and their widespread distribution across vertebrates provide the possibility to collect a wide array of data, where wildlife species are essential. However, obtaining samples from wild animals comes with logistic, technical and ethical challenges, and previous microbiota studies have led to the presumption that captive animals are poor models for microbial studies in wildlife. Here, we show that colonization of polar bears by Ursidibacter maritimus is unaffected by factors related to captivity, reflecting a deep symbiotic bond to the host. We argue that the study of ecological and evolutionary principles in captive wildlife is possible for host-adapted taxa such as those in the Pasteurellaceae family. Moreover, studying captive, often trained animals protects wild populations from the stress associated with obtaining samples.

Evaluation of Fecal Glucocorticoid Metabolite Levels in Response to a Change in Social and Handling Conditions in African Lions (Panthera leo bleyenberghi).

Simple SummaryNon-invasive determination of cortisol metabolite concentrations in feces is widely used to evaluate the influence of housing and handling conditions on the stress physiology of wildlife in captivity. The present study aimed to assess the physiological response of a lion pride to a change in management and social conditions after the death of the dominant male of the pride. Before the dominant male died, weekly management routines between the indoor and outdoor enclosures were conducted to avoid cohabitation problems between the two males of the pride. After the death of the dominant male, these weekly management dynamics ceased, leading to a decrease in the daily management routine of the lion pride. An individualized sampling of the animals through the utilization of indigestive markers was conducted, and fecal samples were collected before and after the death of the dominant male. Significant lower cortisol metabolite concentrations in feces were detected after the death of the dominant male, suggesting a positive impact of a decrease in daily management routines, together with a more stable social environment. In addition, assessment of individualized hormone concentrations throughout the study revealed variable physiological responses among lions, providing evidence of the importance of monitoring hormonal profiles individually.Monitoring the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis through determination of fecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) levels is a non-invasive method useful for understanding how handling and social conditions may affect the physiological status of zoo animals. The present study used FCM analysis to evaluate whether the HPA axis activity of a lion pride was modified by a change in social and handling conditions after the death of the dominant male. Five African lions (Panthera leo bleyenberghi), two males and three females, were included in the study. Fecal samples were collected before and after the death of the dominant male. To avoid cohabitation conflicts between males before the dominant male died, subgroups were established and subjected to weekly changes between indoor and outdoor facilities. After the death of the dominant male, these management dynamics ceased, and the remaining four lions were kept together outdoors. Significant lower group FCM concentrations (p < 0.001) were detected after the decease of the dominant male, probably associated with a decrease in daily handling, together with a more stable social environment. Overall, the present study indicates the effect of different management scenarios on the HPA axis activity and differentiated physiological responses to the same situation between individuals.

The Patterns and Causes of Dermatitis in Terrestrial and Semi-Aquatic Mammalian Wildlife.

Simple SummaryDermatitis is recognized to manifest from a variety of causes in humans and animals, but these have never been synthesized for wildlife. We document the causes and investigate the magnitude of skin diseases and disorders which manifest as, and are described as, dermatitis in the published literature. Our aim was to identify the major causal agents in the development of dermatitis, and if certain mammalian wildlife groups or captivity status was a precursor for the development of dermatitis. The most common causes of dermatitis identified were mites, bacteria, and fungus, and were more frequently reported for wildlife species within Carnivora and Artiodactyla. Furthermore, associated with genetic and behavioral variables, some threatened species were more likely to exhibit dermatitis in captivity. This study provides insight into wild mammalian species that may be more susceptible to dermatological diseases and discusses the patterns of causes within wild mammals.Causative disease and stress agents which manifest as dermatitis in mammals have varying effects on individual animals, from benign irritation and inflammation, to causing morbidity and even mortality. Bacteria, viruses and ectoparasites are all potential causes of dermatitis, and it can be exacerbated by various environmental, genetic and social factors. Furthermore, it is uncertain whether dermatitis is more likely to manifest in already-vulnerable wildlife species. Here, we systematically review the literature for reports of dermatitis in terrestrial and semi-aquatic wild mammalian species, with the goal of determining the biogeographical scale of dermatitis reports, the causes of dermatitis, and whether manifestation of dermatitis is reported more commonly in certain wildlife species or their captivity status (i.e., free-living, in captivity or in a laboratory). We reveal biases in the reporting of dermatitis by a biogeographic realm, with 55% of cases reported in the Nearctic, and towards particular orders of mammals, namely Artiodactyla and Carnivora. Overall, free-living wildlife is almost twice as likely to be reported as having dermatitis than individuals in captivity and six times more likely than individuals in laboratories, which we interpret as owing to exposure to a broader spectrum of parasites in free-ranging individuals, and potential reporting bias in captive individuals. Notably, dermatitis was reported in 23 threatened species, with some species more likely than others to be reported exhibiting clinical signs of dermatitis resulting from underlying health problems. We also find that threatened species are more likely to be reported as having dermatitis in captivity, particularly outside of their endemic home range. This review highlights diverse patterns of dermatological disease causes in captive and free-ranging wildlife, conditions under which they are more likely to be documented, and the need for cross-disciplinary research to ascertain (and so better manage) the varied causes.

Investigating the Presence of SARS CoV-2 in Free-Living and Captive Animals

Due to SARS CoV-2 recombination rates, number of infected people and recent reports of environmental contamination, the possibility of SARS CoV-2 transmission to animals can be expected. We tested samples of dominant free-living and captive wildlife species in Croatia for the presence of anti-SARS CoV-2 antibodies and viral RNA. In total, from June 2020 until February 2021, we tested blood, muscle extract and fecal samples of 422 free-living wild boars (Sus scrofa), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and jackals (Canis aureus); blood and cloacal swabs of 111 yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) and fecal samples of 32 zoo animals. A commercially available ELISA (ID.Vet, France) and as a confirmatory test, a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT; GenScript, Netherlands) were used. Fecal samples were tested for the presence of viral RNA by a real-time RT–PCR protocol. Fifteen out of 533 (2.8%) positive ELISA results were detected; in wild boars (3.9%), red foxes (2.9%) and jackals (4.6%). However, the positive findings were not confirmed by sVNT. No viral RNA was found. In conclusion, no spillover occurred within the investigated period (second COVID-19 wave). However, further investigation is needed, especially regarding wildlife sample features for serological tests.

Review of Methods Used for Diagnosing Tuberculosis in Captive and Free-Ranging Non-Bovid Species (2012-2020).

The Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) is a group of bacteria that cause tuberculosis (TB) in diverse hosts, including captive and free-ranging wildlife species. There is significant research interest in developing immunodiagnostic tests for TB that are both rapid and reliable, to underpin disease surveillance and control. The aim of this study was to carry out an updated review of diagnostics for TB in non-bovid species with a focus predominantly on those based on measurement of immunity. A search was carried out to identify relevant papers meeting a pre-defined set of inclusion criteria. Forty-one papers were identified from this search, from which only twenty papers contained data to measure and compare diagnostic performance using diagnostic odds ratio. The diagnostic tests from each study were ranked based on sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio to define high performing tests. High sensitivity and specificity values across a range of species were reported for a new antigenic target, P22 complex, demonstrating it to be a reliable and accurate antigenic target. Since the last review of this kind was undertaken, the immunodiagnosis of TB in meerkats and African wild dogs was reported for the first time. Suid species showed the most consistent immunological responses and highlight a potential dichotomy between humoral and cellular immune responses.

Insight into One Health Approach: Endoparasite Infections in Captive Wildlife in Bangladesh.

Introduction: Endoparasites in captive wildlife might pose a threat to public health; however, very few studies have been conducted on this issue, and much remains to be learned, especially in limited-resource settings. This study aimed to investigate endoparasites of captive wildlife in Bangladesh. Perception and understanding of veterinarians regarding one health and zoonoses were also assessed. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2019 to August 2020. A total of 45 fecal samples from 18 different species of wild animals (i.e., 11 species of mammals: herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores, six birds, and a single reptile species) were collected randomly. Parasitological assessments were done by modified formalin ether sedimentation technique and rechecked by Sheather’s sugar floatation technique. Molecular identification of Spirometra spp. was conducted by amplifying the cytochrome c oxidase 1 (cox1) gene. Questionnaire surveys among 15 veterinarians and an in-depth interview (IDI) with a zoo officer were conducted. Results: Helminths (Spirometra sp., Capillaria sp., Ascaridia/Heterakis, opisthorchiid, strongyles, acuariid, hookworms, roundworms, and unidentified nematode larvae) and protozoa (coccidian oocyst) were identified, and the overall prevalence was 48.9% (22/45). The cox1 sequences (341 bp) of the Bangladesh-origin Spirometra species from lion showed 99.3–99.7% similarity to the reference sequences of Spirometra decipiens (GenBank No: KJ599679.1; MT122766). The majority of study participants (86.6%) agreed about the importance of endoparasite control in zoo animals, and 73.3% expressed that the one health concept should be promoted in Bangladesh. Only 6.7% of veterinarians perceived confidence in diagnosing parasitic diseases and preventing antiparasiticidal resistance. Conclusions: In the present survey, we found a considerable prevalence of endoparasites in captive wildlife. For the first time, zoonotically important S. decipiens from lion was molecularly characterized in Bangladesh. Veterinarian training is required to improve parasite control knowledge and practice. This study highlights the need for routine parasitological assessment, promotion of one health, and improvement of the implementation of current parasite control strategies in zoo animals.

Carbapenem resistant Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in captive blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra) and leopards (Panthera pardus) from India

The study aimed to investigate the occurrence of carbapenem resistant E. coli and P. aeruginosa in apparently healthy, captive blackbucks and leopards of India. Faecal samples of blackbucks (n = 7) and leopards (n = 7) were processed to isolate carbapenem resistant E. coli (CRE) and P. aeruginosa (CRP). Forty (leopards n = 26; blackbuck n = 14) E. coli and two P. aeruginosa (blackbuck n = 2) samples were isolated from the faecal samples (n = 14). Eleven carbapenem resistant isolates were recovered, of which 10 were CRE and one was CRP. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for meropenem for carbapenem resistant isolates and was between 8 and 64 μg/mL. All the CRE and CRP were phenotypically multidrug resistant, and six CRE were extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) producers. On genotypic screening, seven CRE and one CRP were positive for the blaNDM carbapenemase gene. Efflux pump-mediated carbapenem resistance was noticed in four CRE isolates (36.4%, 4/11). Of the six ESBL producing CRE, four isolates carried blaCTX-M-1 genes. The CRE isolates also harbored blaTEM-1, blaAmpC, qnrA, qnrB, qnrS, tetA, tetB and sul1 resistance genes. On Shiga toxin virulence screening, Stx1, Stx2 genes were detected in two and one isolates, respectively. Plasmid typing of CRE revealed that the blaNDM genes were carried on an Incl1 plasmid. The plasmid multilocus sequence typing (pMLST) of the isolates showed the Sequence Type (ST) 297. The occurrence of carbapenem resistance bacteria in captive wildlife should be a major public health priority.

Host Diversity and Potential Transmission Pathways of SARS-CoV-2 at the Human-Animal Interface.

Emerging infectious diseases present great risks to public health. The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has become an urgent public health issue of global concern. It is speculated that the virus first emerged through a zoonotic spillover. Basic research studies have suggested that bats are likely the ancestral reservoir host. Nonetheless, the evolutionary history and host susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 remains unclear as a multitude of animals has been proposed as potential intermediate or dead-end hosts. SARS-CoV-2 has been isolated from domestic animals, both companion and livestock, as well as in captive wildlife that were in close contact with human COVID-19 cases. Currently, domestic mink is the only known animal that is susceptible to a natural infection, develop severe illness, and can also transmit SARS-CoV-2 to other minks and humans. To improve foundational knowledge of SARS-CoV-2, we are conducting a synthesis review of its host diversity and transmission pathways. To mitigate this COVID-19 pandemic, we strongly advocate for a systems-oriented scientific approach that comprehensively evaluates the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 at the human and animal interface.

Wildlife Tourism Resources Development: A Case Study of Beijing Wildlife Park

In this era of mass tourism, and to create social and financial benefits, it is useful to clarify the positive and negative aspects of animal tourism resources. Following the principles of environmental protection, public relations methods can make the most of existing animal tourism resources from the perspectives of tourists, aid government bodies to strengthen scientific methods of animal production, help promote scientific knowledge of the ecological environment, and stimulate animal protection education. However, with information on visitors’ positive and negative comments about captive wildlife attractions, operators may identify other actions they need to take. Using netnography to extract meaning from online conversations, this study used qualitative methods to collect data from the online comments on two Chinese travel applications (apps) and conduct a thematic analysis to identify the main themes in the data. This study investigates the development of the wildlife tourism resources at Beijing Wildlife Park (BWP), and aims to determine the means of sustainable development of the BWP.

Enhancing the interpretation at the National Zoological Gardens in South Africa

This research identified which aspects of the visitor experience need to be managed to enhance interpretation in a South African zoo. A visitor survey was conducted at the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria – the largest zoo in the country; a total of 421 questionnaires were obtained at the zoo over a long weekend. A set of distinct visitor motives, visitor experience management factors and interpretation needs for the zoo were identified. The research indicates that visitors have clear expectations regarding the interpretation offerings at the zoo, but that more needs to be done to exceed these expectations. Four interpretation factors were the dependent variable in the research and the linear regression analyses results revealed which combination of the visitor experience factors had the most significant influence on enhancing these critical factors. The contributing factors vary, depending on the type of interpretation. The challenge for the zoo and other captive wildlife establishments is to find a balance between attracting visitors (increased visitor satisfaction) while simultaneously enhancing education and conservation management through prioritizing interpretation. Management implicationsThe research indicates that visitors have clear expectations regarding the interpretation offerings at the zoo, but that more needs to be done to exceed these expectations. It appears that visitors to these establishments seek a relaxing and fun excursion while expecting their interaction to involve getting as close as possible to the wildlife. In the process, the critical function of the zoo in terms of education and conservation are less prioritized than “entertaining” visitors. The findings of this research is the first step in addressing this pertinent issue. This research can help to change the negative perceptions surrounding the management of zoos and can provide guidelines on how to manage the visitor experience sustainably by emphasizing conservation management and education through interpretation.

First identification and molecular subtyping of Blastocystis sp. in zoo animals in southwestern China

BackgroundBlastocystis sp. is an anaerobic protozoan that parasitizes many animal hosts and the human gastrointestinal tract, and its pathogenicity is controversial. Captive wildlife may be potential reservoirs for human infection with Blastocystis sp. The present study was performed to investigate the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. in zoo animals in Sichuan Province, southwestern China.MethodsA total of 420 fresh fecal samples were collected from 54 captive wildlife species in four zoos in southwestern China between June 2017 and September 2019. The prevalence and subtype (ST) genetic characteristics of Blastocystis sp. were determined by PCR amplification of the barcode region of the SSU rRNA gene and phylogenetic analysis.ResultsOverall, 15.7% (66/420) of the animal samples and 20.7% (14/54) of the species tested were shown to be infected with Blastocystis sp. The highest prevalence of Blastocystis sp. was found in Panzhihua Zoo (24.3%), which was significantly higher than that in Chengdu Zoo (6.9%), and Xichang Zoo (2.9%) (P < 0.05). There are also significant differences in the prevalence of Blastocystis sp. among different species (P < 0.05), and the highest of Blastocystis sp. prevalence was observed in white-cheeked gibbon, black great squirrel, and red giant flying squirrel (100%). Subtype analysis of Blastocystis sp. revealed nine subtypes, including six zoonotic STs (ST1-5, and ST8) and three animal-specific STs (ST10, ST14, and ST17), with ST17 as the predominant subtype (26/66) in Blastocystis sp.-positive isolates.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first report on the prevalence and subtype distribution of Blastocystis sp. among captive wildlife in zoos in southwestern China. This study highlights that these animals may serve as reservoirs for human Blastocystis sp. infections.Graphical

Haematology and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for the critically endangered western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis porteri).

Reference intervals (RIs) are an increasingly valuable tool for monitoring captive and free-living wildlife populations. Galapagos tortoises are one of the most emblematic species on Earth with 9 of the 12 extant species considered endangered due to human activities. As part of a long-term health assessment within the Galapagos Tortoise Movement Ecology Programme, we sampled a total of 210 free-living Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises (Chelonoidis porteri). We collected blood from the brachial vein and performed packed cell volume (PCV), total solids (TS), morphological evaluation, white blood cell (WBC) count estimates and differentials and a VetScan biochemistry panel for each individual. We calculated 95% RIs and 90% confidence intervals (CIs) using the Reference Value Advisor tool and following international standard guidelines. Tortoises were categorized by estimated age and sex, with RI and CI reported here for 164 adult tortoises and 46 sub-adult tortoises. We found significant differences between sexes, with adult females presenting a lower PCV and higher values for both calcium and potassium. Among age groups, adult tortoises presented higher PCV, TS and albumin and lower WBC counts, aspartate aminotransferase and creatine kinase than sub-adult tortoises. We also found that tortoises presented higher numbers of lymphocytes during the dry season, but higher basophils, eosinophils, phosphorus, potassium and TS during the humid season. The heterophil:lymphocyte ratio did not differ between groups. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of formal plasma biochemistry and haematology RI for free-living Galapagos tortoises. With the present study we provide an important diagnostic tool for captive-breeding programs in the Galapagos and zoological institutions globally that care for giant tortoises. The ultimate goal of this study is to contribute to the understanding of giant tortoise baseline health parameters and to inform local management decisions that help to conserve these emblematic species.

Outside the Box: Working With Wildlife in Biocontainment.

Research with captive wildlife in Animal Biosafety Level 2 (ABSL2) and 3 (ABSL3) facilities is becoming increasingly necessary as emerging and re-emerging diseases involving wildlife have increasing impacts on human, animal, and environmental health. Utilizing wildlife species in a research facility often requires outside the box thinking with specialized knowledge, practices, facilities, and equipment. The USGS National Wildlife Health Center (NWHC) houses an ABSL3 facility dedicated to understanding wildlife diseases and developing tools to mitigate their impacts on animal and human health. This review presents considerations for utilizing captive wildlife for infectious disease studies, including, husbandry, animal welfare, veterinary care, and biosafety. Examples are drawn from primary literature review and collective 40-year experience of the NWHC. Working with wildlife in ABSL2 and ABSL3 facilities differs from laboratory animals in that typical laboratory housing systems, husbandry practices, and biosafety practices are not designed for work with wildlife. This requires thoughtful adaptation of standard equipment and practices, invention of customized solutions and development of appropriate enrichment plans using the natural history of the species and the microbiological characteristics of introduced and native pathogens. Ultimately, this task requires critical risk assessment, understanding of the physical and psychological needs of diverse species, creativity, innovation, and flexibility. Finally, continual reassessment and improvement are imperative in this constantly changing specialty area of infectious disease and environmental hazard research.

17 Comparing Natural Vegetation and Food Plot Preference against Supplemental Protein Pellets in Captive White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and Exotic Species

Abstract Supplemental feed is the most expensive input in the captive wildlife industries. This is due to operations utilizing high-energy pellets as supplemental feed. Low fence operations often utilize food plots with high quality vegetation to minimize cost and increase forage availability for wildlife. The objective of this study was to determine forage preference of animals in captivity, and determine the most cost effective method of supplemental feeding. Seven food plots covering 25 acres contained one of three treatments. The treatments were: a commercial blend of soybeans; a commercial blend of soybeans, sunflowers, and milo; native/unplanted. Three utilization cages were set up to inhibit wildlife access to samples within each food plot to act as a control. Height of vegetative samples, inside and outside of the utilization cages, was collected on days 30, 60, and 90 after planting. The 30-d sample showed a preference of native/unplanted vegetation over the commercial treatments, P &amp;lt; 0.05. However, samples taken on days 60 and 90 showed the preference shifted toward the commercial blends, P &amp;lt; 0.05. This browsing preference indicates stage of maturity had an impact on plant selection. Regardless of sample date, the commercial blends showed a difference of P &amp;lt; 0.01, selecting the soybean blend more frequently. With an increased selection of the forages in the food plots, there was a decrease in cost of purchasing feed pellets with a total savings of approximately $5,500.00 from April 5-July 5, 2019. These results suggest that white-tailed deer and exotic species in captivity prefer forages compared to pelleted feed. Supplemental feeding programs that include food plots could allow for natural feeding tendencies, while being more cost effective for operations in the captive wildlife industries.

16 Comparing Natural Vegetation and Food Plot Preference against Supplemental Protein Pellets in Captive White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and Exotic Species

Abstract Supplemental feed is the most expensive input in the captive wildlife industries. This is due to operations utilizing high-energy pellets as supplemental feed. Low fence operations often utilize food plots with high quality vegetation to minimize cost and increase forage availability for wildlife. The objective of this study was to determine forage preference of animals in captivity, and determine the most cost effective method of supplemental feeding. Seven food plots covering 25 acres contained one of three treatments. The treatments were: a commercial blend of soybeans; a commercial blend of soybeans, sunflowers, and milo; native/unplanted. Three utilization cages were set up to inhibit wildlife access to samples within each food plot to act as a control. Height of vegetative samples, inside and outside of the utilization cages, was collected on days 30, 60, and 90 after planting. The 30-day sample showed a preference of native/unplanted vegetation over the commercial treatments, P &amp;lt; 0.05. However, samples taken on days 60 and 90 showed the preference shifted toward the commercial blends, P &amp;lt; 0.05. This browsing preference indicates stage of maturity had an impact on plant selection. Regardless of sample date, the commercial blends showed a difference of P &amp;lt; 0.01, selecting the soybean blend more frequently. With an increased selection of the forages in the food plots, there was a decrease in cost of purchasing feed pellets with a total savings of approximately $5,500.00 from April 5-July 5, 2019. These results suggest that white-tailed deer and exotic species in captivity prefer forages compared to pelleted feed. Supplemental feeding programs that include food plots could allow for natural feeding tendencies, while being more cost effective for operations in the captive wildlife industries.

Isolation and Genetic Characterization of Cryptosporidium from Captive Wildlife of India

Background: Cryptosporidiosis is an emerging zoonotic protozoan disease caused by Cryptosporidium spp. The infection was reported worldwide from domestic animals and humans, including wild animals. From India, no such reports were published on Cryptosporidium infection in captive wildlife. Hence, a pilot study was conducted to report the occurrence of Cryptosporidium infection in captive wildlife of India. Methods: Faecal samples (n=788) were collected from 127 captive wildlife species of three zoological parks viz., Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP), Tirupati (n=242); Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP), Visakhapatnam (n=218); Nehru Zoological Park (NZP), Hyderabad (n=328) and screened for Cryptosporidium infection. Preliminary screening of faecal samples was done for the detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts by modified Ziehl-Neelsen (mZN) staining method and the test positives were confirmed by nested PCR targeting 18S rRNA gene. Nested PCR amplicons were sequenced for determining the Cryptosporidium species. The resultant data were statistically analyzed by Fisher/Chi square, Fisher Exact test using SPSS software v 17.0.Result: In mZN staining method, 7.23 percent of isolates were found to be positive for Cryptosporidium and the highest rate of infection was detected in wildlife at NZP, Hyderabad (8.23%), followed by SVZP, Tirupati (7.44%) and IGZP, Visakhapatnam (5.50%). Cryptosporidium positive faecal samples by mZN staining were further confirmed by nested PCR and positive amplicons were sequenced for determination of Cryptosporidium species. Genetic characterization revealed five species viz., Cryptosporidium parvum; C. ryanae, C. suis, C. muris and Cryptosporidium avian genotype III. The study conclude that, Cryptosporidium infection was prevalent in the captive wildlife from the zoological parks of India and species variation was marked among the wildlife. Based on the available literature, the current study is the first of its kind on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in captive wildlife from India.

Could conservation management be prioritised during captive wildlife experiences?

Could conservation management be prioritised during captive wildlife experiences?

Coprological survey of gastrointestinal parasitism in captive wildlife of three zoological parks located in southern India

Gastrointestinal parasitism (GIP) is one of the important causes of diarrhoea in captive wildlife. Due to lack of systematic data on GIP in captive wildlife of southern parts of India, a study was conducted. Faecal samples (793) were collected from wildlife of three zoological parks, viz. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park (SVZP), Tirupati (n=244); Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP), Visakhapatnam (n=221) and Nehru Zoological Park (NZP), Hyderabad (n=328). The collected samples were screened by faecal sedimentation and faecal flotation methods for detection of parasite ova, cysts or oocysts. An overall prevalence of GIP at 19.92% (158/793) with 16.39% (130/ 793) of helminths, 2.27% (18/793) of intestinal protozoa and 1.26% (15/793) of mixed infections were recorded. The highest prevalence of GIP was recorded in NZP (22.26%) followed by SVZP (20.90%) and IGZP (15.38%). The prevalence of GIP was observed highest in reptiles (42.31%) followed by herbivores (26.32%), carnivores (23.59%), birds (9.09%), rodents (9.09%) and primates (8.89%). Monitoring of captive wildlife at regular intervals is needed to assess the GIP to alert the zoo authorities to take up proper preventive measures.