Factors influencing weight changes in callitrichids at the Bronx zoo
Abstract Callitrichids are small monkeys with high metabolic rates who appear to be susceptible to spontaneous diseases and possibly to environmental changes creating challenges in maintaining them in captivity. This study investigates whether life events (i.e. medical, social and housing changes) can influence weight. In previous research, body mass has been shown to be correlated […]
Biochemical and physiological observations in meerkats (Suricata suricatta) at two zoos during a dietary transition to a diet designed for insectivores
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20230.abs This research (involving two separate institutions) assessed the serum chemistries and body weights of meerkats (Suricata suricatta) over a 6–10-week feeding trial to determine the acceptability of a commercially available manufactured diet intended for the feeding of insectivorous animals. Five animals at two zoos were heavier than desired and otherwise healthy at the […]
Shrink and mortality of beef cattle during long distance transportation
The aims of this study were to determine the effects of long distance transport on shrink and mortality rate in cattle, and to understand the relationships between environmental temperature, bodyweight, shrink and dressing percentage. This survey was conducted on 121 transfers of bulls (Bos taurus) from commercial finishing units in Bugyi, Hungary to a public […]
Short-term welfare implications of capture-mark-recapture trapping of medium-sized mammals: the brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) as a case study
Capture-mark-recapture (CMR) repeated at intervals is a commonly used method of population estimation of mammals. Most guidelines for the use of wild mammals recommend adequate measures to ensure a captured animal has food and water available, as needed, until it is released. Small mammals are often highlighted as needing special care, but recommendations are either […]