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Kornreich A, Partridge D, Youngblood M, Parkins K. Rehabilitation outcomes of bird-building collision victims in the Northeastern United States. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306362. [PMID: 39110767 PMCID: PMC11305546 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Building collisions are a leading threat to wild birds; however, only those that are found dead or fatally wounded are included in current mortality estimates, with injured or stunned birds largely assumed to survive long-term. Avian building collision victims are often brought to wildlife rehabilitators for care, with the hopes they can be released and resume their natural lives. We examined the wildlife rehabilitation records of over 3,100 building collisions with 152 different avian species collected across multiple seasons to identify patterns of survival and release among patients. The number of admissions varied by season; fall migration had the highest number of cases and winter had the least number of cases, and summer having the lowest release proportion and winter having the highest. The most common reported injury was head trauma and concussion. Our logistic and Poisson models found that mass had a strong positive effect on release probability, and the season of summer had a strong negative effect on release probability. Mass and winter had a strong positive effect on treatment time, and age and the seasons of fall and winter had a strong negative effect on treatment time in these models. Ultimately, about 60% of patients died in care, either by succumbing to their injuries or by euthanasia. Patients that were released remained in care for longer than patients that died. This study reports different data than carcass studies and views bird-building collisions from the perspective of surviving victims to explore longer-term effects of these collisions on mortality. Increased communication and collaboration between wildlife rehabilitators and conservation researchers is recommended to better understand building collisions and how to respond to this leading threat to wild birds. These findings, along with our estimate of delayed mortality, suggest that overall collision mortality estimates based on carcass collection far exceed one billion birds in the U.S. each year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ar Kornreich
- Fordham University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Dustin Partridge
- NYC Bird Alliance, Inc, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Mason Youngblood
- Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology, Minds and Traditions Research Group, DE, Jena, Germany
- Institute for Advanced Computational Science, Stony Brook University, Brook, New York, United States of America
| | - Kaitlyn Parkins
- NYC Bird Alliance, Inc, New York, New York, United States of America
- American Bird Conservancy, The Plains, Virginia, United States of America
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2
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Dominguez-Villegas E. Wildlife Pediatrics. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2024; 27:411-430. [PMID: 38040565 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2023.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife neonates arrive by the thousands to wildlife rehabilitation centers, veterinary hospitals, and wildlife hospitals in North America. With the ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild, veterinarians need to know the ecology, biology, and specific problems encountered by the various species of wildlife.
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Cruz JT, de Carvalho LM, Ferreira MR, Nunes C, Casero M, Marzal A. Avian Haemosporidian Infection in Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres of Portugal: Causes, Consequences, and Genetic Diversity. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1216. [PMID: 38672371 PMCID: PMC11047687 DOI: 10.3390/ani14081216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, over 40% of bird species in Europe have experienced poor and bad conservation status, with more than 30% of bird species in mainland Portugal threatened with extinction. Along with anthropogenic factors, parasites and pathogens such as avian haemosporidians have been suggested to be responsible for these avian population declines. Wildlife rehabilitation centres play an essential role in species conservation and preservation. Moreover, animals admitted for rehabilitation can provide valuable information regarding transmission and pathogenicity of many diseases that affect wild birds that are rarely sampled in nature. However, reports of haemosporidians in captive birds are still limited. Here, we explored the prevalence and genetic diversity of avian haemosporidians in 89 birds from 29 species admitted to rehabilitation centres in Portugal, showing an overall infection prevalence of 30.3%. The prevalence of infection was higher in Strigiformes and in birds admitted to rehabilitation centres due to debilitating diseases. Remarkably, 30% of the infected bird species have not been found to harbour malaria parasites in preceding studies. We detected 15 different haemosporidian lineages infecting a third of bird species sampled. Notably, 2 out of these 15 detected haemosporidian lineages have not been obtained previously in other studies. Furthermore, we also identified nine new host-parasite interactions representing new host records for these haemosporidian parasites. Finally, our results revealed that birds infected with haemosporidians require longer rehabilitation treatments, which increase the economic costs for rehabilitation and may impair their survival prospects. These findings emphasise the importance of integrating haemosporidian infection considerations into rehabilitation protocols, highlighting the challenges posed by these infections in avian conservation and rehabilitation, including economic and logistical demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- João T. Cruz
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FMV-ULisboa), University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.T.C.); (L.M.d.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Madeira de Carvalho
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health (CIISA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (FMV-ULisboa), University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.T.C.); (L.M.d.C.)
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Mariana Ribeiro Ferreira
- Centre for Studies and Rehabilitation of Wild Animals of Castelo Branco (CERAS), Quercus ANCN, Rua Tenente Valadim, 17, 6000-284 Castelo Branco, Portugal;
| | - Carolina Nunes
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Santo André (CRASSA), Quercus ANCN, Moinho Novo, Galiza, 7500-022 Vila Nova de Santo André, Portugal;
| | - María Casero
- Wildlife Rehabilitation and Investigation Centre of the Ria Formosa (RIAS), Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, 8700-194 Olhão, Portugal;
| | - Alfonso Marzal
- Department of Anatomy, Cellular Biology and Zoology, University of Extremadura, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
- Wildlife Research Group, San Martin National University, Tarapoto 22021, Peru
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4
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Fernandes R, Abreu R, Serrano I, Such R, Garcia-Vila E, Quirós S, Cunha E, Tavares L, Oliveira M. Resistant Escherichia coli isolated from wild mammals from two rescue and rehabilitation centers in Costa Rica: characterization and public health relevance. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8039. [PMID: 38580725 PMCID: PMC10997758 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57812-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and virulence profiles of 67 Escherichia coli isolates obtained from faecal samples of 77 wild mammals from 19 different species, admitted in two rescue and rehabilitation centers in Costa Rica. It was possible to classify 48% (n = 32) of the isolates as multidrug-resistant, and while the highest resistance levels were found towards commonly prescribed antimicrobials, resistance to fluoroquinolones and third generation cephalosporins were also observed. Isolates obtained from samples of rehabilitated animals or animals treated with antibiotics were found to have significantly higher AMR levels, with the former also having a significant association with a multidrug-resistance profile. Additionally, the isolates displayed the capacity to produce α-haemolysins (n = 64, 96%), biofilms (n = 51, 76%) and protease (n = 21, 31%). Our results showed that AMR might be a widespread phenomenon within Costa Rican wildlife and that both free-ranging and rehabilitated wild mammals are potential carriers of bacteria with important resistance and virulence profiles. These results highlight the need to study potential sources of resistance determinants to wildlife, and to determine if wild animals can disseminate resistant bacteria in the environment, potentially posing a significant threat to public health and hindering the implementation of a "One Health" approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Fernandes
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Raquel Abreu
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Isa Serrano
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Sandy Quirós
- Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary, Puntarenas, Costa Rica
| | - Eva Cunha
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Tavares
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Manuela Oliveira
- CIISA - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Em Sanidade Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477, Lisbon, Portugal.
- AL4AnimalS - Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Lisbon, Portugal.
- cE3c - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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Cope HR, McArthur C, Gray R, Newsome TM, Dickman CR, Sriram A, Haering R, Herbert CA. Trends in Rescue and Rehabilitation of Marsupials Surviving the Australian 2019-2020 Bushfires. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1019. [PMID: 38612258 PMCID: PMC11011103 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The 2019-2020 Australian bushfire season had a devastating impact on native wildlife. It was estimated that 3 billion native animals were impacted by the fires, yet there are few estimates of the number of animals that were rescued and rehabilitated post-fire. Focusing on the state of New South Wales (NSW) and Kangaroo Island, South Australia, we used a case study approach to determine the number of marsupials that were reported rescued due to the 2019-2020 bushfires in these areas and analysed species-specific trends in rescue and release success. In NSW, we found 889 reports of fire-affected marsupials in 2019-2020, mostly comprising kangaroos and wallabies (macropods; n = 458), koalas (n = 204), and possums (n = 162), with a smaller number of wombats (n = 43) and other marsupial species. Most reports of fire-affected marsupials occurred 6-8 weeks after fire ignition, and there was no difference in temporal frequency of rescues between marsupial groups. For the three main groups, the probability of survival and subsequent release differed, with macropods having the lowest probability of release after rescue (0.15 ± 0.04) compared to koalas (0.47 ± 0.04) and possums (0.55 ± 0.10). The type of injury was the main predictor of survival during rehabilitation for all three marsupial groups, with those malnourished/moribund or with traumatic injuries less likely to survive rehabilitation. Death or euthanasia occurred on the day of rescue for 77% of macropods, 48% of possums and 15% of koalas. Koalas most often died during rehabilitation rather than on the day of rescue, with 73% either dying or being euthanised between day 1 and 30 post-rescue, representing a potential welfare concern. On Kangaroo Island, koalas were the most frequently rescued marsupial species; most euthanasia cases and deaths occurred in a hospital, whereas other marsupials were mostly euthanised at triage. In both jurisdictions, koalas were over-represented while possums were under-represented relative to baseline population densities and wildlife rescue trends in the years before the 2019-2020 bushfires. These species differences in presentation post-fire warrant further investigation, as do the differences in triage, survival and release outcomes. It is hypothesised that the high intensity and large scale of the 2019-2020 fires impeded marsupial fire evasion tactics, as evidenced by the small number of animals found for rescue, and the differing rates of presentation relative to underlying population densities for the main marsupial groups. Based on our findings, there is a need for detailed record keeping and data sharing, development of consistent and evidence-based triage, treatment and euthanasia guidelines and deployment of trained wildlife emergency rescue teams with advanced search techniques to minimise animal suffering where safe to do so.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly R. Cope
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (H.R.C.); (R.G.)
| | - Clare McArthur
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (C.M.); (T.M.N.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Rachael Gray
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (H.R.C.); (R.G.)
| | - Thomas M. Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (C.M.); (T.M.N.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Christopher R. Dickman
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (C.M.); (T.M.N.); (C.R.D.)
| | - Aditi Sriram
- New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Parramatta, NSW 2150, Australia
| | - Ron Haering
- New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Parramatta, NSW 2150, Australia
| | - Catherine A. Herbert
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia; (C.M.); (T.M.N.); (C.R.D.)
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Panda AK, Verma V, Srivastav A, Badola R, Hussain SA. Digital image processing: A new tool for morphological measurements of freshwater turtles under rehabilitation. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300253. [PMID: 38484004 PMCID: PMC10939246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Freshwater fauna is facing an uphill task for survival in the Ganga Basin, India, due to a range of factors causing habitat degradation and fragmentation, necessitating conservation interventions. As part of the ongoing efforts to conserve the freshwater fauna of the Basin, we are working on rehabilitating rescued freshwater chelonians. We carry out various interventions to restore rescued individuals to an apparent state of fitness for their release in suitable natural habitats. Morphometric measurements are crucial to managing captive wild animals for assessing their growth and well-being. Measurements are made using manual methods like vernier caliper that are prone to observer error experience and require handling the specimens for extended periods. Digital imaging technology is rapidly progressing at a fast pace and with the advancement of technology. We acquired images of turtles using smartphones along with manual morphometric measurements using vernier calipers of the straight carapace length and straight carapace width. The images were subsequently processed using ImageJ, a freeware and compared with manual morphometric measurements. A significant decrease in the time spent in carrying out morphometric measurements was observed in our study. The difference in error in measurements was, however, not significant. A probable cause for this may have been the extensive experience of the personnel carrying out the measurements using vernier caliper. Digital image processing technology can cause a significant reduction in the stress of the animals exposed to handling during measurements, thereby improving their welfare. Additionally, this can be used in the field to carry out morphometric measurements of free-ranging individuals, where it is often difficult to capture individuals, and challenges are faced in obtaining permission to capture specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Kumar Panda
- Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vikas Verma
- Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Anupam Srivastav
- Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Ruchi Badola
- Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Syed Ainul Hussain
- Ganga Aqualife Conservation and Monitoring Centre, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand, India
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Molinari-Jobin A, Zimmermann F, Borel S, Le Grand L, Iannino E, Anders O, Belotti E, Bufka L, Ćirović D, Drouet-Hoguet N, Engleder T, Figura M, Fuxjäger C, Gregorova E, Heurich M, Idelberger S, Kubala J, Kusak J, Melovski D, Middelhoff TL, Mináriková T, Molinari P, Mouzon-Moyne L, Moyne G, Mysłajek RW, Nowak S, Ozolins J, Ryser A, Sanaja B, Shkvyria M, Sin T, Sindičić M, Slijepčević V, Stauffer C, Tám B, Trajce A, Volfová J, Wölfl S, Zlatanova D, Vogt K. Rehabilitation and release of orphaned Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) in Europe: Implications for management and conservation. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297789. [PMID: 38452124 PMCID: PMC10919842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitation of injured or immature individuals has become an increasingly used conservation and management tool. However, scientific evaluation of rehabilitations is rare, raising concern about post-release welfare as well as the cost-effectiveness of spending scarce financial resources. Over the past 20 years, events of juvenile Eurasian lynx presumably orphaned have been observed in many European lynx populations. To guide the management of orphaned lynx, we documented survival, rehabilitation and fate after the release and evaluated the potential relevance of lynx orphan rehabilitation for population management and conservation implications. Data on 320 orphaned lynx was collected from 1975 to 2022 from 13 countries and nine populations. The majority of orphaned lynx (55%) were taken to rehabilitation centres or other enclosures. A total of 66 orphans were released back to nature. The portion of rehabilitated lynx who survived at least one year after release was 0.66. Release location was the best predictor for their survival. Of the 66 released lynx, ten have reproduced at least once (8 females and 2 males). Conservation implications of rehabilitation programmes include managing genetic diversity in small, isolated populations and reintroducing species to historical habitats. The lynx is a perfect model species as most reintroduced populations in Central Europe show significantly lower observed heterozygosity than most of the autochthonous populations, indicating that reintroduction bottlenecks, isolation and post-release management have long-term consequences on the genetic composition of populations. The release of translocated orphans could be a valuable contribution to Eurasian lynx conservation in Europe. It is recommended to release orphans at the distribution edge or in the frame of reintroduction projects instead of a release in the core area of a population where it is not necessary from a demographic and genetic point of view. Rehabilitation programmes can have conservation implications that extend far beyond individual welfare benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fridolin Zimmermann
- Stiftung KORA, Ittigen, Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Borel
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Departement of Infectious diseases and Pathobiology, Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Ole Anders
- Harz National Park, Wernigerode, Germany
| | - Elisa Belotti
- Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Nature Protection, Šumava National Park Administration, Kašperské Hory, Czech Republic
| | - Ludek Bufka
- Department of Nature Protection, Šumava National Park Administration, Kašperské Hory, Czech Republic
| | - Duško Ćirović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Thomas Engleder
- Green Heart of Europe, Lynx Project Austria Northwest, Haslach an der Mühl, Austria
| | - Michał Figura
- Association for Nature "Wolf", Twardorzeczka, Poland
- Faculty of Biology, Department of Ecology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, University of Warsaw, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Warszawa, Poland
| | | | | | - Marco Heurich
- Institute for Forest and Wildlife Management, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Koppang, Norway
- Wildlife Ecology and Wildlife Management, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Jakub Kubala
- Faculty of Forestry, Department of Applied Zoology and Wildlife Management, Technical University in Zvolen, Zvolen, Slovakia
- DIANA–Carpathian Wildlife Research, Banská Bystrica, Slovakia
| | - Josip Kusak
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department Veterinary Biology, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Dime Melovski
- Macedonian Ecological Society, Skopje, North Macedonia
| | | | - Tereza Mináriková
- ALKA Wildlife, Dačice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Gilles Moyne
- Centre Athenas Wildlife Rescue Center, L’étoile, France
| | - Robert W. Mysłajek
- Association for Nature "Wolf", Twardorzeczka, Poland
- Faculty of Biology, Department of Ecology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, University of Warsaw, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Sabina Nowak
- Association for Nature "Wolf", Twardorzeczka, Poland
- Faculty of Biology, Department of Ecology, Institute of Functional Biology and Ecology, University of Warsaw, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Warszawa, Poland
| | - Janis Ozolins
- Latvian State Forest Research Institute ‘‘Silava”, Salaspils, Latvia
| | | | - Bardh Sanaja
- Environmentally Responsible Action ERA, Peja, Kosovo
| | | | - Teodora Sin
- Association for the Conservation of Biological Diversity, Focsani, Romania
| | - Magda Sindičić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department for Game and Wildlife, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vedran Slijepčević
- Department of Wildlife Management and Nature Protection, Karlovac University of Applied Sciences, Karlovac, Croatia
| | | | - Branislav Tám
- Bojnice Zoological Garden, Bojnice, Slovakia
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Department of Small Animal Science, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Aleksander Trajce
- Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania, Tirana, Albania
| | - Josefa Volfová
- Department of Nature Protection, Šumava National Park Administration, Kašperské Hory, Czech Republic
- Friends of the Earth Czech Republic—Carnivore Conservation Programme, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Sybille Wölfl
- WildLink Institute, Association Lynx Bavaria, Waldmünchen, Germany
| | - Diana Zlatanova
- Faculty of Biology, Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Sofia, Bulgaria
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Molina-Lopez RA, Obón E, Darwich L. Morbidity and Prognostic Factors Associated with Wild Hedgehogs Admitted to a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Catalonia (NE Spain) from 1995 to 2020. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:556. [PMID: 38396523 PMCID: PMC10886239 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Wildlife rehabilitation centers (WRC) play a crucial role in the collection of data and the monitoring of hedgehog populations. The main objective of this study was to identify the morbidity and prognostic factors associated with the mortality of wild hedgehogs admitted at a WRC in Catalonia. A total number of 3397 hedgehogs admitted from 1995 to 2020 were studied. The principal cause of admission was orphaned/young category (41%) followed by misplacement (19%), natural disease (17%), and trauma (14%). The best outcomes for release were for misplacement (93.6%), orphaned/young (72.3%), and other causes (77.6%), and the lowest proportion of released animals were found for natural disease (41.4%) and trauma (44.7%) categories. The most common macroscopic findings were the respiratory and digestive lesions. Internal parasites were also prevalent in 61% of the animals but with no association with a higher mortality. In the multivariate analyses, the prognostic indicators related with the mortality outcome were the presence of systemic (OR = 3.6, CI 95%: 2.8-4.6) and neurological (OR = 4.3, CI 95%: 2.9-6.4) signs. Morbidity and prognostic factors in wildlife rehabilitation are essential for providing effective care, making informed decisions, optimizing resources, and improving rehabilitation success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael A. Molina-Lopez
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Torreferrussa, Catalan Wildlife Service-Forestal Catalana S.A., 08130 Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Spain;
| | - Elena Obón
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Torreferrussa, Catalan Wildlife Service-Forestal Catalana S.A., 08130 Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Spain;
| | - Laila Darwich
- Department Sanitat i Anatomia Animals, Veterinary School, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Valles, Spain
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9
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Mullineaux E, Pawson C. Trends in Admissions and Outcomes at a British Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre over a Ten-Year Period (2012-2022). Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:86. [PMID: 38200817 PMCID: PMC10778305 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Millions of animals pass through wildlife rehabilitation centres (WRCs) globally each year, some dying in captivity, others euthanised, and some released into the wild. Those caring for these animals are generally well-intentioned, but skills, knowledge, and resources may be limited, potentially compromising animal welfare. WRC databases provide an opportunity to provide an evidence base for treatment and conservation efforts. 42,841 records of animals admitted over a 10-year period to a British WRC were analysed. More birds (69.16%) were admitted than mammals (30.48%) and reptiles and amphibians (0.36%). Most admissions were in the summer (48.8%) and spring (26.0%) months. A total of 9 of the 196 species seen made up 57% of admissions, and hedgehogs were the most common species admitted (14% of all admissions and 20% of mammals). Juvenile animals (35.5%) were admitted more frequently than 'orphans' (26.0%) or adults (26.4%). 'Orphaned' was also the predominant reason for admission (28.3%), followed by 'injured' (25.5%). 42.6% of animals were eventually released back to the wild, 19.2% died in captivity, and 37.2% were euthanised; 1% of outcomes were unknown. The prognosis was better for orphaned animals than for those admitted because of injury. Unexpected natural deaths in captivity were found to decline over the period of study, consistent with improved early triage. These findings can be used to focus veterinary and WRC training and seasonal resources on the species and case types most likely to be successfully rehabilitated and released. The findings also have the potential to contribute to our understanding of anthropogenic impacts, historical and regional variations in ecosystem health, and resultant implications for animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Mullineaux
- Capital Veterinary Services Ltd., Haddington, East Lothian EH41 4JN, UK
- Secret World Wildlife Rescue, Highbridge, Somerset TA9 3PZ, UK
| | - Chris Pawson
- Department of Animal and Agriculture, Hartpury University, Hartpury, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK;
- College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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10
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Thrift E, Nouvellet P, Mathews F. Plastic Entanglement Poses a Potential Hazard to European Hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus in Great Britain. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2448. [PMID: 37570257 PMCID: PMC10417105 DOI: 10.3390/ani13152448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
A questionnaire to gather evidence on the plastic entanglement of the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) was sent to 160 wildlife rehabilitation centres in Great Britain. Fifty-four responses were received, and 184 individual admissions owing to plastic entanglement were reported. Death was the outcome for 46% (n = 86) of these cases. A high proportion of Britain's hedgehogs enter rehabilitation centres annually (approximately 5% of the national population and potentially 10% of the urban population), providing a robust basis for assessing the minimum impacts at a national level. We estimate that 4000-7000 hedgehog deaths per year are attributable to plastic, with the true rate likely being higher, since many entangled hedgehogs-in contrast to those involved in road traffic accidents-will not be found. Population modelling indicates that this excess mortality is sufficient to cause population declines. Although the scale of the impact is much lower than that attributable to traffic, it is nevertheless an additional pressure on a species that is already in decline and presents a significant welfare issue to a large number of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fiona Mathews
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton BN1 9RH, UK; (E.T.); (P.N.)
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11
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Willette M, Rosenhagen N, Buhl G, Innis C, Boehm J. Interrupted Lives: Welfare Considerations in Wildlife Rehabilitation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1836. [PMID: 37889738 PMCID: PMC10252006 DOI: 10.3390/ani13111836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Each year in the United States, thousands of sick, injured, or displaced wild animals are presented to individuals or organizations who have either a federal or state permit that allows them to care for these animals with the goal of releasing them back to the wild. The purpose of this review is to demonstrate the complexity of considerations rehabilitators and veterinarians face while trying to optimize the welfare of wild animals in need of care and rehabilitation. The process of rehabilitation is inherently stressful for wildlife. Maintaining an animal's welfare during the rehabilitation process-from initial contact and tria+ge to the animal's euthanasia, release, or captive placement-requires deliberate, timely and humane decision making. The welfare of wild animals can be improved by preventing human-related causes of admission, providing resources and support for wildlife rehabilitation (almost all rehabilitation in the United States is privately funded and access to veterinary care is often limited); further developing evidence-based wildlife rehabilitation methods and welfare measures, attracting more veterinary professionals to the field, harmonizing regulatory oversight with standards of care, training, and accountability, and increasing public education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gail Buhl
- The Raptor Center, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA;
| | | | - Jeff Boehm
- The Marine Mammal Center, Sausalito, CA 94965, USA;
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12
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Leigh KA, Hofweber LN, Sloggett BK, Inman VL, Pettit LJ, Sriram A, Haering R. Outcomes for an arboreal folivore after rehabilitation and implications for management. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6542. [PMID: 37085564 PMCID: PMC10121558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33535-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife rehabilitation is a critical part of animal welfare that contributes to species conservation. Despite the resources that go into rehabilitation, how animals fare after release from care is unknown. This is particularly true for cryptic arboreal species where specialist diets in care and low detectability in the wild present challenges for both care and post-release monitoring. We evaluated post-release outcomes for koalas and assessed if koalas were fed appropriately while in care. We monitored 36 koalas that had experienced one of three categories of medical intervention (none, minor, major) during rehabilitation. We examined the drivers of (i) koala survival and (ii) movements post-release, and (iii) evaluated variation between the species of browse fed in care versus browse selected by koalas in-situ. Overall, the post release survival rate of koalas was 58.5%, with only koalas that received medical intervention experiencing mortality. A critical threshold for mortality occurred at two weeks post-release and mortality was related to the measurable indicators of low body condition and poor climbing ability at time of release. In the month following their release, animals translocated furthest from their capture point moved the furthest. There was poor overlap between the tree species that koalas were fed in care and those they utilized post-release. We provide recommendations to address critical gaps in rehabilitation practices, as well as priorities for monitoring animals post-release to improve outcomes for arboreal folivores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie A Leigh
- Science for Wildlife Ltd, PO Box 5, Mount Victoria, NSW, 2786, Australia.
| | - Lacey N Hofweber
- Science for Wildlife Ltd, PO Box 5, Mount Victoria, NSW, 2786, Australia
| | - Brienna K Sloggett
- Science for Wildlife Ltd, PO Box 5, Mount Victoria, NSW, 2786, Australia
| | - Victoria L Inman
- Science for Wildlife Ltd, PO Box 5, Mount Victoria, NSW, 2786, Australia
| | - Lachlan J Pettit
- Science for Wildlife Ltd, PO Box 5, Mount Victoria, NSW, 2786, Australia
| | - Aditi Sriram
- Department of Planning and Environment, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Locked Bag 5022, Parramatta, NSW, 2124, Australia
| | - Ron Haering
- Department of Planning and Environment, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Locked Bag 5022, Parramatta, NSW, 2124, Australia
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13
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Johnson JM, Bock SL, Smaga CR, Lambert MR, Rainwater TR, Wilkinson PM, Parrott BB. Relationships between maternally-transferred mercury and hatchling development, behavior, and survival in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:162010. [PMID: 36739038 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a toxic and pervasive environmental contaminant that can be transferred from mother to offspring during development. Consequences of maternally-transferred mercury have been observed in vertebrate taxa, including reduced clutch viability, reduced offspring size, and behavioral alterations. These sublethal effects have been assumed to decrease survivorship, though this is seldom assessed. Here, we examined how maternally-transferred mercury interacts with incubation temperature to influence reproductive success, offspring behavior, and subsequent survival in the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). We collected nine clutches of eggs from a mercury contaminated reservoir on the Savannah River Site, South Carolina, and incubated eggs at either female- or male-promoting temperatures. Clutch-averaged mercury in egg yolk was high relative to other studies in crocodilians and ranged from 0.248 to 0.554 ppm compared to 0.018-0.052 ppm at a site with low levels of mercury contamination; mercury levels in hatchling blood ranged from 0.090 to 0.490 ppm (x¯ = 0.240 ppm, n = 158). We found few, mostly negligible correlations between life history traits and mercury but noted a positive relationship with egg mass, possibly mediated by correlated maternal effects such as resource provisioning. Incubation temperature exerted strong effects on hatchling phenotypes, with warmer, male-promoting temperatures producing larger and bolder hatchlings. Presumptive females, produced from cooler incubation temperatures, spent more time in warm areas during behavior trials. Hatchlings were released 10-15 days post-hatch and surveyed over eight months to assess survival. Survivorship was positively correlated with hatchling size and negatively correlated with proportional time spent in warm areas. Presumptive females had much lower survival, and overall survivorship for the eight-month period was 0.185-0.208, depending on the modelling approach. Our study suggests that, within the range of concentrations we observed, incubation temperature has a stronger effect on offspring behavior and survival than maternally-transferred mercury pollution in American alligators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josiah M Johnson
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States.
| | - Samantha L Bock
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Christopher R Smaga
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
| | - Max R Lambert
- Environmental Science, Policy, and Management, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, United States
| | - Thomas R Rainwater
- Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science, Clemson University, Georgetown, SC 29442, United States; Tom Yawkey Wildlife Center, Georgetown, SC 29440, United States
| | | | - Benjamin B Parrott
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC 29802, United States; Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, United States
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14
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FACTORS IMPACTING SUCCESSFUL REHABILITATION OF BIG BROWN BATS (EPTESICUS FUSCUS) IN A WISCONSIN WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER: A 5-YEAR RETROSPECTIVE. J Zoo Wildl Med 2023; 54:32-39. [PMID: 36971626 DOI: 10.1638/2021-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus; EPFU) is widely distributed throughout the Americas and plays critical roles in sustaining cave ecosystems and abating agricultural pests. In Wisconsin, EPFU is a threatened species with declining populations due to hibernacula disturbances, wind turbines, and habitat destruction. Due to their ecological and economic value, it is important to be able to release EPFU that enter wildlife rehabilitation centers back to the wild. This study evaluated the medical records of 454 EPFU (275 male, 179 female) admitted to a wildlife rehabilitation center in Wisconsin from 2015 to 2020. For each bat, the season at intake, examination findings, length of time in rehabilitation, and final outcome (released or not released) were recorded. Using a multiple variable logistic regression model, there was a statistically significant positive association between length of time in the rehabilitation center and likelihood of release (odds ratio [OR] 1.08; 95% CI 1.06-1.12); this association can be explained by the need to overwinter some otherwise healthy bats in rehabilitation during hibernation. The following examination findings were associated with a significantly lower likelihood of release: wing injury (OR 0.32; 95% CI 0.10-0.89) and decreased body condition (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.12-0.64). When corrected for time spent in rehabilitation (potentially artificially lengthened due to hibernation), patients admitted in the summer and fall were less likely to be released than those admitted in the winter (OR 0.93; 95% CI 0.90-0.96 and OR 0.95; 95% CI 0.92-0.97, respectively). The results of this study can be used to help veterinarians and licensed rehabilitators better triage EPFU during admission to wildlife rehabilitation centers in order to improve management and promote successful release back to the wild.
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15
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USHINE N, MICHISHITA M, MACHIDA Y, ENOMOTO T, SAKAI T, KATO T, HAYAMA SI. Clinical examination and necropsy findings of a mountain hawk-eagle (Nisaetus nipalensis) that died during rehabilitation. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:88-91. [PMID: 36436844 PMCID: PMC9887209 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.22-0333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the clinical signs and necropsy findings of a mountain hawk-eagle (Nisaetus nipalensis) that died during rehabilitation. The bird was rescued and treated for open fracture of the right forearm. During rehabilitation, the bird could not stand up or fly. Part of the right secondary and left and right primary feathers were removed during rehabilitation; additional fracture was found in the right tibiotarsus and treated. However, the bird died 92 days after rescue and necropsy was performed. Severe hepatic lipidosis and capture myopathy were confirmed by histopathological examinations. These lesions may be associated with the cause of death of this animal. Accumulation of information is expected to contribute to the improvement of effective rehabilitation techniques for raptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana USHINE
- Department of Wildlife Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan,Department of Animal Health Technology, Yamazaki University of Animal Health Technology, Tokyo, Japan,Correspondence to: Ushine N: , Department of Animal Health Technology, Yamazaki
University of Animal Health Technology, 4-7-2 Minami-osawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0364, Japan
| | - Masaki MICHISHITA
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukino MACHIDA
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya ENOMOTO
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Takuya KATO
- Department of Wildlife Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shin-ichi HAYAMA
- Department of Wildlife Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
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16
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Experimental Release of Orphaned Wild Felids into a Tropical Rainforest in Southwestern Costa Rica. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9090468. [PMID: 36136685 PMCID: PMC9505387 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9090468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A male ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and a female margay (Leopardus weidii) brought in from the wild were held in captivity and rehabilitated, then radio-collared, released, and monitored at a national wildlife refuge previously assessed for predator and prey occurrence. Subsequently, the ocelot was trapped while preying on chickens, and the margay was found dead, likely due to ocelot predation. Avoiding habituation to humans, ensuring hunting abilities, and assessing release sites likely is not sufficient to ensure successful release of these species. Abstract A 3- to 4-mo-old male ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) and a 6- to 8-mo-old female margay (Leopardus weidii) were brought in from the wild, held in captivity, and rehabilitated for 906 and 709 days, respectively, at the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica. During captivity, both cats were kept as isolated as possible from humans and fed appropriate live wild prey. After maturing and demonstrating the ability to capture and feed on live prey, the cats were radio-collared, released at a national wildlife refuge previously assessed for predator and prey occurrence, and monitored. After 54 days, the ocelot was trapped while preying on chickens in a nearby community, and after 20 days, the margay was found dead, likely due to ocelot predation. Avoiding habituation to humans, assuring hunting abilities, and assessing release sites likely is not sufficient to assure successful release of these species, and more experimental releases with innovative and detailed protocols and monitoring are needed.
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17
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Goldenberg SZ, Parker JM, Chege SM, Greggor AL, Hunt M, Lamberski N, Leigh KA, Nollens HH, Ruppert KA, Thouless C, Wittemyer G, Owen MA. Revisiting the 4 R’s: Improving post-release outcomes for rescued mammalian wildlife by fostering behavioral competence during rehabilitation. FRONTIERS IN CONSERVATION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fcosc.2022.910358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rescue, rehabilitation, and release (‘rescue-rehab-release’) of wildlife is an increasingly widespread practice across ecosystems, largely driven by habitat loss, wildlife exploitation and a changing climate. Despite this, its conservation value has not been realized, in part due to the scarcity of what has been termed “the 4th R”, research. Similar to conservation breeding and headstarting, rescue and rehabilitation entails close association of humans and the wildlife in their care over impressionable and extended periods. However, unlike these interventions, rescue and rehabilitation require an initial, and sometimes sustained, focus on crisis management and veterinary needs which can impede the development of natural behaviors and promote habituation to humans, both of which can compromise post-release survival and recruitment. In this perspective, we discuss the pathways toward, and implications of, behavioral incompetence and highlight opportunities for testable interventions to curtail negative outcomes post-release, without compromising the health or welfare of rescued individuals. We propose that practitioners ‘switch gears’ from triage to fostering behavioral competence as early in the rehabilitation process as is possible, and that research be implemented in order to develop an evidence-base for best practices that can be shared amongst practitioners. We focus on four mammalian species to illustrate specific contexts and considerations for fostering behavioral competence by building on research in the conservation translocation literature. Finally, we discuss a way forward that calls for greater cross-pollination among translocation scenarios involving extended time under human care during developmentally sensitive periods.
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18
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Causes of Raptor Admission to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Abruzzo (Central Italy) from 2005–2016. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12151916. [PMID: 35953904 PMCID: PMC9367453 DOI: 10.3390/ani12151916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the causes of morbidity and mortality in free-ranging raptors admitted to a wildlife rehabilitation center (WRC) in Abruzzo Italy from 2005 to 2016 and the associated risk factors. A total of 2496 free-ranging raptors were included in the study. We analyzed the raptors’ medical records, epidemiological information, bird characteristics, cause of admission, final diagnosis, and outcome. The prevalence rates of nocturnal and diurnal raptors were 49% and 51%, respectively. Nocturnal raptors showed trauma as the primary cause of admission (45.8%, 558/1219), followed by nestling (including birds on their first flight attempt or presumed abandoned by their parents) (39.2%, 478/1219), and starvation (5.6%, 68/1219). Diurnal raptors showed trauma (73.1%, 934/1277), starvation (12.1%, 155/1277), and nestling (5.8%, 74/1277) accordingly. A description of the dangers for wild birds of prey in the Abruzzo region was provided to assist in the planning of rescue and rehabilitation activities in the WRC. Finally, the cause of admission, GAP, and BCS can be used as prognostic factors during the bird entry process.
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