Journal Of Zoo And Wildlife Medicine[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
THORACIC AND ABDOMINAL RADIOGRAPHIC ANATOMY OF THE EUROPEAN WILDCAT ().
Bacon A, Becker L, Morgan E … +4 more , Amos R, Byford L, Girling S, Schwarz T
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926271 · Publisher ↗
Survey radiographs imaged for routine health management of captive European wildcats (), bred for conservation translocation, were assessed to determine normal qualitative and quantitative radiographic parameters for thi...
Survey radiographs imaged for routine health management of captive European wildcats (), bred for conservation translocation, were assessed to determine normal qualitative and quantitative radiographic parameters for this species (n = 37, 16 adults and 21 subadults). Normal wildcat parameters determined included vertebral heart score (VHS; 7.5-9.1), small intestine diameter (10.09-15.65 mm), small intestine diameter to second lumbar vertebral end plate ratio (1.64), small intestine diameter to fifth lumbar vertebral end plate ratio (2.82), large intestine diameter to fifth lumbar vertebra ratio (0.88), right kidney to second lumbar vertebra (L2; 2.09-2.81), and left kidney to L2 (2.07-2.75). Wildcat radiographic anatomy is similar to the domestic cat in many respects. However, differing features included VHS, small intestinal diameter, and the presence of an os penis.
HEMATOLOGIC OBSERVED VALUES OF FREE-RANGING SIBERIAN WEASELS ().
Ha MJ, Suh YD, Lee DN … +1 more , Yeon SC
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926270 · Publisher ↗
The Siberian weasel () is a frequently encountered species in Korean wildlife rehabilitation; however, the species-specific hematologic data remain scarce. This study analyzed the hematologic observed values in 52 clinic...
The Siberian weasel () is a frequently encountered species in Korean wildlife rehabilitation; however, the species-specific hematologic data remain scarce. This study analyzed the hematologic observed values in 52 clinically healthy, free-ranging Siberian weasels rescued in Seoul between 2020 and 2024. The subjects were classified by sex (26 males and 26 females) and age (26 juveniles and 26 adults). The animals were sedated with alfaxalone (5 mg/kg) and medetomidine (20 lg/kg). Blood was collected via cephalic, lateral saphenous, or cranial vena cava venipuncture. Complete blood counts were performed using an automated analyzer with a visual validation of the differential results. Statistical analysis comprised a Shapiro-Wilk normality test ( > 0.2) to select the parametric or nonparametric methods for calculating the observed value intervals with 90% confidence intervals. The statistical outliers were excluded using Dixon's and Tukey's methods with iterative removal until no additional outliers were detected. The Siberian weasels displayed broad lymphocyte percentage ranges (10.1%-65.7%), potentially reflecting adaptive responses to urban environmental challenges. Female weasels exhibited significantly higher platelet concentrations compared to males ( = 0.0044). No other sex- or age-related differences were significant. Our findings provide the baseline criteria for the clinical assessments of free-ranging Siberian weasels in wildlife rehabilitation and urban wildlife management programs.
BLOOD VALUES OF FREE-LIVING SOUTHERN MANED SLOTHS (): FIRST RECORD.
Simas Bernardes FC, Ferreira SS, Zwarg T … +3 more , Rosa BF, Fehlberg HF, Miranda FR
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926269 · Publisher ↗
There are now two species of maned sloths threatened by extinction in Brazil, and they inhabit severely fragmented areas: , in the states of Sergipe and Bahia, and , in Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo. Because of these...
There are now two species of maned sloths threatened by extinction in Brazil, and they inhabit severely fragmented areas: , in the states of Sergipe and Bahia, and , in Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo. Because of these species' arboreal nature, it is difficult to find sloths in the forest and complex techniques must be used to capture them. In addition, the specific morphological and physiological characteristics of these species are seldom studied. There are several studies on the physiology and health of other species of the genus , but there is a lack of scientific data related to the health of both and Given the importance of blood tests for the assessment of animal health status of individuals and populations, this study presents the first hematological and biochemical values of the recently discovered species . In total, 19 clinically healthy maned sloths were captured and assessed (19 in total, maximum of 28 samples due to recaptures) for total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count, RBC count, Hct, total solids, urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase. These hematological and biochemistry values may help in assessing the health of free-living southern maned sloths.
NORMAL REPRODUCTIVE ANATOMY AND DESCRIPTION OF TWO VASECTOMY APPROACHES IN THE NORTH AMERICAN BEAVER ().
Hopf-Dennis C, Buck A, Bloodgood J … +1 more , Childs-Sanford S
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926268 · Publisher ↗
The use of sterilization methods for population management is often necessary in animal facilities, such as zoological settings or nature centers. A surgical vasectomy is one method of sterilization but requires knowledg...
The use of sterilization methods for population management is often necessary in animal facilities, such as zoological settings or nature centers. A surgical vasectomy is one method of sterilization but requires knowledge of the reproductive anatomy of a species to perform. Over a six-year period, six young adult male beavers had surgical vasectomy procedures performed. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia after induction with dexmedetomidine, ketamine, and midazolam. The first three vasectomy procedures were performed via an intra-abdominal technique, while the remaining three procedures were performed via a novel extra-abdominal technique. All procedures were successful, and all beavers recovered uneventfully. Necropsy and surgical dissection techniques were used to better describe male reproductive anatomy for these procedures. Detailed anatomical illustrations were created of the intra-abdominal location of the testicles, as well as their normal track through the abdominal musculature in the inguinal region to sit in a scrotal sac subcutaneously on either side of the vent and can guide practitioners in this procedure.
EVALUATION OF 100% VERSUS 21% OXYGEN SUPPLEMENTATION IN COMMON SNAPPING TURTLES () ANESTHETIZED WITH ALFAXALONE.
Martony ME, McMahon S, Bailey J … +3 more , Bosworth L, Thompson L, Balko JA
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926267 · Publisher ↗
In reptiles, respiration differs from that in mammals, with hypoxia rather than hypercapnia driving ventilation. Although veterinarians have anecdotally limited 100% oxygen supplementation in reptile anesthesia to mitiga...
In reptiles, respiration differs from that in mammals, with hypoxia rather than hypercapnia driving ventilation. Although veterinarians have anecdotally limited 100% oxygen supplementation in reptile anesthesia to mitigate respiratory depression and, theoretically, avoid prolonged anesthetic recovery, data to support this practice are lacking. The study objective is a comparison of supplementation with 100% versus 21% oxygen on anesthetic and cardiorespiratory parameters of 10 healthy, spontaneously ventilating common snapping turtles () anesthetized with alfaxalone. Using a randomized, complete crossover design with a 1-wk interval between treatments, turtles were administered alfaxalone (8 mg/kg IM), intubated, and supplemented with either 21% oxygen (room air) or 100% oxygen (1 L/min). Anesthetic timing (initial effect, intubation, extubation, recovery), venous blood gas data (baseline, 40 min, recovery) and serial physiologic variables (heart and respiratory rates, temperature, inhaled and exhaled gas concentrations, anesthetic depth) were compared between groups. Times to initial effect and intubation, and cumulative anesthetic depth scores were not significantly different between groups. In all turtles, sustained increase in heart rate and transient increase in respiratory rate were observed following alfaxalone administration and were not significantly different between groups. Respiratory rate for the remainder of the anesthesia was not significantly different between groups. Median (range) time to extubation (21%: 100 [90-126] min, 100%: 100 [69-116] min) and time to recovery (21%: 118 [100-130] min, 100%: 115 [85-130] min) were not significantly different between groups. Mean ± SD partial pressure of oxygen in venous blood was significantly higher with supplementation of 100% (104.5 ± 36.0 mm Hg) compared with 21% (35.8 ± 7.0 mm Hg) oxygen ( < 0.01). Supplementation with 100% oxygen did not decrease respiratory rate or delay anesthetic recovery time and resulted in significantly greater blood oxygen concentrations in alfaxalone-anesthetized juvenile snapping turtles, supporting the use of 100% oxygen supplementation during chelonian anesthesia.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF VETERINARY STORYTELLING IN THE MEDIA ON THE PUBLIC'S PERCEPTION OF ZOOS.
Adkesson MJ, Ramont M, Wong Y … +4 more , Sari G, Allender MC, Chinnadurai SK, Miller LJ
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926266 · Publisher ↗
Visitors at Brookfield Zoo Chicago were systematically recruited to participate in a survey before and after watching a video highlighting veterinary care of zoo animals. Thirteen survey questions on a 7-point scale eval...
Visitors at Brookfield Zoo Chicago were systematically recruited to participate in a survey before and after watching a video highlighting veterinary care of zoo animals. Thirteen survey questions on a 7-point scale evaluated participant perceptions of zoos and animal welfare. Participants reported demographic information, visiting frequency, and knowledge of Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accreditation. Principal component analysis (PCA) on responses from 330 visitors reduced survey questions to one composite score and fitted them to a linear mixed-effects model. The best-fitting model determined that visitor perceptions were significantly more positive after the video, and visitors with knowledge of AZA accreditation had significantly more positive perceptions. Separately, participants rated the extent to which seven different media sources influenced their opinions of zoos and animal care on a 7-point scale, with the zoo's internally produced content rating the highest overall. This preliminary investigation suggests effective media and storytelling about veterinary care at Brookfield Zoo Chicago significantly improved participants' perceptions of zoos and animal welfare. Zoo veterinarians can effectively communicate important topics and inspire trust in zoo animal care and welfare, and the results suggest that zoo messaging is influential in developing zoogoers' opinions over other media sources. More research is needed to determine which aspects of veterinary media are most effective in influencing visitor perceptions. Veterinarians are publicly trusted experts in animal care and welfare, and highlighting the work of zoological medicine clinicians through media positively impacts public education about the conservation, research, and animal welfare missions of accredited zoos.
ACUTE MYOCARDIAL DEGENERATION AND DEATH IN AYE-AYES ( FOLLOWING INGESTION OF AVOCADO .
Williams CV, Schopler RL, Asfaw YG … +3 more , Cullen JM, Proia AD, Everitt JI
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926265 · Publisher ↗
Five of a cohort of 13 aye-ayes ( at the Duke Lemur Center (DLC) exhibited acute, nonspecific signs of lethargy and ataxia within 24 h of ingesting a meal containing avocado fruit ( that included the skin and pit. Deaths...
Five of a cohort of 13 aye-ayes ( at the Duke Lemur Center (DLC) exhibited acute, nonspecific signs of lethargy and ataxia within 24 h of ingesting a meal containing avocado fruit ( that included the skin and pit. Deaths rapidly ensued in four of the five animals within 13 h of initial symptoms. All animals that died had pericardial effusion on postmortem examination and microscopic findings of acute myocardial degeneration. After ruling out other causes, all evidence points to avocado toxicity as the cause of death. Following an analysis of the DLC deaths in 2016, all deaths in aye-ayes from 1985 to 2022 occurring at the DLC or on loan to other institutions were reviewed. An additional six cases of acute death and pericardial effusion associated with cardiomyopathy and acute myocardial degeneration were identified for a total of 10 of 27 deaths (37%) over 37 yr. This analysis led the authors to conclude that aye-ayes may be acutely sensitive to toxins present in avocado and that mortality due to avocado toxicosis in this species is more common than previously recognized. Prior stress on animals in advance of avocado consumption may have contributed to the acute myocardial degeneration and death following avocado fruit ingestion, as noted in this report. Avocado toxicosis has been reported in various avian and mammalian species, but adverse effects have not been previously noted in other lemur or primate species. This case series is of particular interest because all affected animals had regularly been fed avocado previously and some zoologic institutions routinely use avocado in diets for primates.
MEDICAL MANAGEMENT OF A LARGE NONRESTRICTIVE ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECT IN A CRAB-EATING MACAQUE ().
Boutibou A, Chai N, Bureau M … +1 more , Chetboul V
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926264 · Publisher ↗
Atrial septal defects represent one of the most common congenital heart diseases in humans as well as in dogs and cats. However, reports in wildlife animals are limited. Additionally, ensuring treatment compliance and re...
Atrial septal defects represent one of the most common congenital heart diseases in humans as well as in dogs and cats. However, reports in wildlife animals are limited. Additionally, ensuring treatment compliance and regular follow-ups in these species are often challenging. The aim of the present clinical brief is to describe the first successful long-term medical management of a nonrestrictive atrial septal defect in a crab-eating macaque (). A seven-year-old castrated male crab-eating macaque was diagnosed with a severe left-to-right shunting, 7.5 mm atrial septal defect with altered general condition, right heart enlargement, and vena cava dilation. Medical treatment (spironolactone and taurine) was initiated and was associated with progressive improvement of the clinical status over time. Serial echocardiographic examinations confirmed substantial reduction of both defect size (0.9 mm) and right-sided volume overload. Two years after the initial diagnosis, the animal is doing well without any treatment.
RETROSPECTIVE CLASSIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT OF CANINE FRACTURES IN LARGE APES WITHIN SPECIES SURVIVAL PLAN©-MANAGED POPULATIONS (2004-2017).
Valeo SE, Moyse JA, Prevolos GA … +4 more , Mohr D, Wonn AM, Voit NA, Gamble KC
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926263 · Publisher ↗
The prominent canine tooth of the large ape species western lowland gorilla (WLG; ), chimpanzee (CH; ), bonobo (BO; ), and orangutan (ORG; spp.) is vulnerable to injury. Specialty consultation is often sought for severe...
The prominent canine tooth of the large ape species western lowland gorilla (WLG; ), chimpanzee (CH; ), bonobo (BO; ), and orangutan (ORG; spp.) is vulnerable to injury. Specialty consultation is often sought for severe dental fractures to optimize care. Although several options are possible (none, medical, endodontic, extraction), treatment by type of fracture for this tooth has not been well documented in apes. A retrospective review by survey was performed to assess the frequency of canine dental fracture in large apes that were managed in Association of Zoos and Aquariums Species Survival Plan© (SSP) holding institutions during 2004-2017. From 40 participating institutions, 13 facilities reported no canine tooth fractures in 96 individual apes (WLG, = 40; CH, = 18; BO, = 0; ORG, = 38). In the remaining 27 institutions, 108 individual apes (WLG, = 55; CH, = 45; BO, = 6; ORG, = 2) were reported with canine fractures. In these latter apes, 179 canine fractures were described; more than 1 canine was involved in 26 individual apes, contributing to 66% ( = 118) of the total fractures. The cause of these fractures was frequently unknown, but when identified, the most frequent cause was conspecific trauma. Dental fracture descriptions were standardized and then assessed in the context of the initial treatment selected. Classifications included fractures of the enamel (16%, = 29), enamel-dentin (21%, = 38), enamel-dentin-pulp (15%, = 27), crown root (36%, = 64), and root (9%, = 17), or avulsion (2%, = 4). Treatment categories included none (58%, = 103), medical treatment (4%, = 8), endodontic procedure (21%, = 38), or extraction (17%, = 30), which varied by initial presentation and species. From this retrospective review, understanding of canine dental fractures in large apes has been improved. The data collected inform veterinarians on prevalence and type of dental injury in large apes and support prospective improvement of their dental care.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY WITH INFRACYANINE GREEN (EMUNDO) FOLLOWING SURGICAL EXCISION OF MULTIPLE CUTANEOUS MELANOCYTIC TUMORS IN A WHITE BENGAL HYBRID TIGER ( CROSS).
Charnock L, Gai J, Lui CC … +3 more , Affolter VK, Jordan TJM, Good K
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926262 · Publisher ↗
A white Bengal hybrid tiger ( cross) was presented for a tumor subjacent to the right inferior eyelid. Surgical excision under general anesthesia followed by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with infracyanine green (EmunDo) wa...
A white Bengal hybrid tiger ( cross) was presented for a tumor subjacent to the right inferior eyelid. Surgical excision under general anesthesia followed by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with infracyanine green (EmunDo) was performed. Two months after surgery, a new tumor involving the concave left pinna was noted, and surgical excision followed by PDT was again performed. Healing of both surgical sites was achieved by 37 d postoperatively. Histopathologic review of both masses was consistent with cutaneous melanocytic tumors with complete surgical margins. To the authors' knowledge, PDT is a novel surgical procedure in nondomestic species. Melanocytic tumors may be associated with the uncommon white hair phenotype of Bengal tigers. PDT removes the requirement for wound closure following surgery, provides adjunctive therapy for neoplastic lesions, appears well tolerated, and results in an excellent cosmetic outcome. This case highlights the potential use of this therapy for cutaneous melanoma in captive tigers.
NECROHEMORRHAGIC MENINGOENCEPHALITIS IN A RED RUFFED LEMUR () CAUSED BY T1 GENOTYPE.
Ferchaw H, Bessemer B, Dixon S … +5 more , Chien RC, Ritter JM, M Ali IK, Roy S, Seeley KE
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926261 · Publisher ↗
A 5-yr-old castrated male red ruffed lemur () was evaluated for cluster seizures over a 24-h period. Seizures were refractory to anticonvulsive therapy. MRI revealed meningoencephalitis affecting the left occipital lobe....
A 5-yr-old castrated male red ruffed lemur () was evaluated for cluster seizures over a 24-h period. Seizures were refractory to anticonvulsive therapy. MRI revealed meningoencephalitis affecting the left occipital lobe. Because of concern for superrefractory status epilepticus and overall poor prognosis, the animal was humanely euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed necrohemorrhagic meningoencephalitis with intralesional amoebic trophozoites and cysts. The causative agent was identified as spp. T1 genotype via immunohistochemistry staining and species-specific real-time PCR. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented report of T1 genotype meningoencephalitis in a nonhuman primate in professional care.
EVALUATION OF A BUTORPHANOL-MEDETOMIDINE REVERSIBLE ANESTHETIC PROTOCOL FOR MANED WOLVES ( ) UNDER MANAGED CARE.
Palmer AG, Delaski KM, Hayek LC … +1 more , Helmick K
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926260 · Publisher ↗
This study identified a safe, reversible protocol for maned wolves (). Over 15 anesthetic events, 11 healthy adult maned wolves (four females, seven males; ages 4.1-9.9 years; weights 24.3-28 kg) were anesthetized with m...
This study identified a safe, reversible protocol for maned wolves (). Over 15 anesthetic events, 11 healthy adult maned wolves (four females, seven males; ages 4.1-9.9 years; weights 24.3-28 kg) were anesthetized with medetomidine (target 0.05 mg/kg, range 0.049-0.052 mg/kg) and butorphanol (target 0.5 mg/kg, range 0.49-0.52 mg/kg) administered intramuscularly in a restraint device. At 40 ± 6 min after drug administration, the reversals atipamezole (5 mg per mg of medetomidine) and naltrexone (2 mg per mg of butorphanol) were administered intramuscularly. Inductions were rapid and smooth, median time to recumbency was five min (range 3-7 min), and safe handling was achieved at a median of nine min (range 7-18 min). Anesthetic depth in 14/15 anesthetic events was sufficient for physical examination, vaccine administration, blood collection, and urinary catheterization. One wolf demonstrated lighter sedation that did not allow more invasive procedures (urinary catheterization) but was sufficiently sedated for blood collection and physical examination. Heart rate, respiratory rate, peripheral oxygen saturation, rectal temperature, and indirect BP measurements were taken at 5-minute intervals. Bradycardia and hypoxemia were the most notable changes noted with this protocol but did not require medical intervention. Throughout anesthesia, all monitoring values remained stable, excluding rectal temperature which was seen to significantly decrease during this protocol. Venous blood gas evaluations at initial handling and immediately prior to reversal administration showed no significant changes during anesthesia. A single individual demonstrated a self-resolving ventricular tachycardia event of unknown origin. The only post-anesthetic complication was a single incidence of vomiting at recovery. Recoveries in all animals were smooth and rapid with a median time to standing of 11 minutes. A combination of medetomidine (0.05 mg/kg) and butorphanol (0.5 mg/kg) is expected to provide safe, smooth, reversible handling in maned wolves. These agents should be suitable for use for both minor procedures and sample collections.
MULTISYSTEM EFFECTS OF MUSTH ON IMMUNE FUNCTION AND PHYSIOLOGY OF ASIAN ELEPHANTS ().
LaDue CA, McCrae EA, D'Agostino JJ
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926259 · Publisher ↗
Understanding how reproductive states influence immune function is critical for advancing the care of managed wildlife species. Male Asian elephants () undergo musth, a periodic reproductive state characterized by elevat...
Understanding how reproductive states influence immune function is critical for advancing the care of managed wildlife species. Male Asian elephants () undergo musth, a periodic reproductive state characterized by elevated testosterone and behavioral changes, which may impose physiological costs. The effects of musth on immune function and systemic physiology remain poorly understood. This study evaluated multisystem biomarkers to characterize physiological changes associated with musth in two zoo-housed male Asian elephants over a five-year period. We analyzed hematologic parameters, serum amyloid A (SAA), and cortisol concentrations from blood samples collected before, during, and after musth episodes. Linear mixed-effects models revealed that musth was associated with significant increases in white blood cell and platelet counts, SAA, cortisol, and heterophil percentage, and decreases in red blood cell count, hematocrit, and eosinophil percentage. Principal component analysis indicated that musth samples clustered distinctly from non-musth samples, reflecting coordinated shifts across hematologic, inflammatory, and endocrine systems. The magnitude of physiological deviation from baseline peaked after 72 days of musth progression and declined over time, suggesting dynamic physiological adjustment. These findings support the hypothesis that musth incurs measurable physiological costs, characterized by immune activation and stress axis engagement. Clinically, our results highlight the importance of reproductive state when interpreting health biomarkers in male elephants and suggest that early musth may represent a period of elevated health risk. Broader application of integrative, multi-biomarker approaches may enhance clinical monitoring and improve welfare outcomes for elephants and other large mammals undergoing energetically demanding life-history events.
SEVOFLURANE ANESTHESIA IN JUVENILE GREEN ANACONDAS (): EFFICACY AND EFFECTS ON BLOOD GAS AND ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC PARAMETERS.
Huberdeau P, Lobko A, Laidebeure S … +2 more , Thorel M, Lécu A
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926258 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and physiologic effects of sevoflurane anesthesia, induced with a face mask under manual restraint and maintained with intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) at 1 bpm, i...
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and physiologic effects of sevoflurane anesthesia, induced with a face mask under manual restraint and maintained with intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) at 1 bpm, in captive juvenile green anacondas (). Anesthetic depth parameters were recorded from induction to recovery. Venous blood gas analysis, along with two-dimensional echocardiography were performed under manual restraint prior to induction and during anesthesia. Sevoflurane provided effective and consistent anesthesia, with rapid induction (3.6 ± 0.9 min time to intubation), recovery (8.6 ± 5.2 min to extubation), and minimal effects on spontaneous ventilation, but resulted in a significant decrease in venous base excess ( < 0.001), bicarbonate ( = 0.02), as well as HR ( < 0.001), and pulmonary trunk maximum velocity ( < 0.001). Venous blood gas analysis indicated an anesthesia-related respiratory acidosis with a metabolic component, and echocardiography effectively demonstrated anesthesia-induced changes in the cardiovascular function of the snakes, consistent with a decreased cardiac output and blood pressure. Minimizing handling and adjusting the IPPV at a rate ≥1 bpm appears clinically warranted and may help address restraint-related metabolic acidosis, anesthesia-related respiratory acidosis, and probable hypotension in this species.
THE GONADOTROPIN RELEASING HORMONE AGONIST, DESLORELIN ACETATE, IS CONTRAINDICATED FOR MITIGATION OF AGGRESSION AND REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR IN MALE COWNOSE RAYS ().
Hyatt MW, Penfold LM, Mone AJ … +2 more , Newton AL, Davis MR
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926257 · Publisher ↗
Male cownose rays () can display aggressive behaviors toward other conspecifics. This can lead to accidental, self-inflicted trauma to the subordinate ray attempting to flee, such as rostral or ocular abrasions and ulcer...
Male cownose rays () can display aggressive behaviors toward other conspecifics. This can lead to accidental, self-inflicted trauma to the subordinate ray attempting to flee, such as rostral or ocular abrasions and ulcerations. Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, such as deslorelin acetate (Suprelorin), are commonly used among mammals for both reproductive management and behavioral mitigation, such as aggression in males. However, limited work has been done to advance our understanding of GnRH agonists in elasmobranchs. In an attempt to mitigate aggression, the use of deslorelin was investigated in three adult male cownose rays, that were implanted with either one (two rays) or two (one ray) 9.4 mg deslorelin implants. Another male ray was not implanted and used as the "control" male. Blood was collected from each ray prior to implantation, and then at various timepoints over 24 months, to evaluate plasma testosterone concentrations. Plasma testosterone was measured via enzyme immunoassay which was validated for this species. Behavior was monitored daily. The three males that received implants all had higher testosterone concentrations than the control animal two weeks to 24 months post-implantation. The ray that received two 9.4 mg implants displayed dose-dependent 50 to 100% higher concentrations compared to the two rays that received only one 9.4 mg implant. Testosterone concentrations in the control male were similar to previous published results. Implanted rays displayed increased aggressive and reproductive behaviors, that were not suppressed throughout the study. Female rays continued to be chased throughout the year, with some sustaining self-inflicted rostral abrasions requiring medical management. The deslorelin implants produced a persistent stimulation of testosterone production with no sign of suppression after two years. Based on the continued and sometimes enhanced unwanted aggressive behaviors, and failure of testosterone suppression, deslorelin is not recommended in male cownose rays for aggression and reproductive behavior mitigation.
DENTAL WEAR DUE TO ATTRITION AND ABRASION IN FREE-RANGING COATIS () FROM SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL.
Fracascio S, Ferro BS, de Lima HC … +5 more , Hussni MF, Romano FS, Rahal SC, Guimarães-Okamoto PTC, Melchert A
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926256 · Publisher ↗
Coatis (, Linnaeus, 1766), omnivorous mammals of the family Procyonidae of the order Carnivora, are ubiquitous in South America. Their diet varies seasonally, with a greater intake of invertebrates and small vertebrates...
Coatis (, Linnaeus, 1766), omnivorous mammals of the family Procyonidae of the order Carnivora, are ubiquitous in South America. Their diet varies seasonally, with a greater intake of invertebrates and small vertebrates during fruit-scarce periods. This study aimed to evaluate dental wear and dental formula variations in free-ranging coatis from Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil, using the modified Triadan system. Coatis typically have 40-42 teeth, with a dental formula of 2 × (3/3 incisors, 1/1 canines, 4/4 premolars, 2/2-3 molars). They exhibit heterodont, brachydont, and anisognathic dentition, with secodont and bunodont morphologies adapted to omnivorous feeding. Among nine coatis evaluated, 364 teeth were analyzed. Two males presented supernumerary lower third molars, considered a normal variation in the species. Two adults showed occlusal wear, including one female with no other visible oral disorders. A total of 26 teeth (7.1%) exhibited occlusal wear: 2 teeth (0.6%) had grade 1 (mild), 10 (2.7%) grade 2 (moderate), and 14 (3.8%) grade 3 (severe) wear. No teeth exhibited grade 4 (extreme) wear. Wear in coatis is likely physiological and may result from their anisognathic occlusion and abrasive diet. Tooth wear, involving loss of dental tissue through attrition or abrasion, is common in many wild species. Understanding these characteristics enhances knowledge of oral physiology and dental health in wildlife. These findings provide baseline data on dental morphology and wear in free-ranging coatis, supporting future clinical assessments and ecological research in wild carnivores.
ANALGESIC EFFICACY OF SUBCUTANEOUS MELOXICAM IN RED-EARED SLIDER TURTLES ().
Schwartz K, Huss M, Sladky K … +7 more , Rivera S, Vilches-Moure JG, Ray R, Jampachaisri K, Sharp P, Felt S, Pacharinsak C
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926255 · Publisher ↗
Meloxicam is a commonly used analgesic for reptiles. There are few published studies regarding the efficacy of meloxicam and dosing is typically extrapolated from mammals. We evaluated the analgesic efficacy of two melox...
Meloxicam is a commonly used analgesic for reptiles. There are few published studies regarding the efficacy of meloxicam and dosing is typically extrapolated from mammals. We evaluated the analgesic efficacy of two meloxicam doses in red-eared slider turtles (). We hypothesized that subcutaneously administered 1 mg/kg meloxicam would significantly increase thermal hindlimb withdrawal latency for a greater time period than 0.4 mg/kg meloxicam. Twenty red-eared sliders were randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1) 0.9% saline (NaCl) (0.5 ml/kg), 2) 0.4 mg/kg meloxicam (Melox-0.4), and 3) 1 mg/kg meloxicam (Melox-1). Meloxicam or 0.9% NaCl was administered as a single SC injection in the right forelimb. Using the Hargreaves assay, a noxious radiant heat stimulus was applied to the plantar surface of both hindlimbs and withdrawal response to heat (heat latency) was measured at -0.25, 0.5, 2, 4, 8, and 24 hrs after treatment administration. Compared to the 0.9% NaCl group, Melox-0.4 significantly increased heat latency at 2 hrs while Melox-1 significantly increased heat latency at 0.5, 2, 4, and 8 hrs. The results of this study indicate that 1 mg/kg meloxicam SC significantly increased heat latency up to 8 hrs in red-eared sliders.
COMPARISON OF KETAMINE-DEXMEDETOMIDINE AND KETAMINE-DEXMEDETOMIDINE-MIDAZOLAM PROTOCOLS FOR ANESTHESIA IN FREE-RANGING CANADA LYNX ().
Parlange M, Couture ÉL, Ferrell S … +4 more , Noriega JR, Isaaz C, Cheveau M, Lair S
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926254 · Publisher ↗
The Canada lynx () is an emblematic species of the boreal forest. Few studies are available regarding anesthetic protocols for this species. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of tw...
The Canada lynx () is an emblematic species of the boreal forest. Few studies are available regarding anesthetic protocols for this species. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two IM anesthetic protocols consisting of 4 mg/kg ketamine and 0.025 mg/kg dexmedetomidine (KD) or 2 mg/kg ketamine, 0.025 mg/kg dexmedetomidine, and 0.1 mg/kg midazolam (KDM) on free-ranging Canada lynx undergoing noninvasive procedures. Fifteen adult Canada lynx (eight males, seven females, weighing from 8.54 to 13 kg) were anesthetized with either the KD protocol (n = 8) or the KDM protocol (n = 7) after being captured using cage traps or foot snares. Reversal was provided with 0.25 mg/kg atipamezole IM. Time to induction was similar between protocols (6 ± 3 min). Time to sternal recumbency for lynx anesthetized with KDM (mean = 4.3 min, range = 0-6 min) was significantly shorter than for lynx anesthetized with KD (mean = 7.9 min, range = 2-13 min). A tendency for shorter recovery time was observed in lynx anesthetized with KDM (13.7 ± 10.3 min) compared with lynx from the KD group (24.6 ± 9.0 min). Total anesthesia duration was set around 45 min for both protocols (43.5 ± 6.3 min) to allow the ketamine to be metabolized before injecting the reversal agent. No differences were observed between protocols regarding the different physiological parameters evaluated, which stayed within the accepted range throughout anesthesia. Though both protocols provided a safe and stable anesthesia, the shorter time to sternal recumbency of the KDM protocol was seen as an advantage for brief field immobilizations.
SEVERE BACTERIAL BRONCHOPNEUMONIA IN A GROUP OF ORPHANED AMERICAN BLACK BEARS () IN EASTERN TENNESSEE, USA.
Swanepoel L, McKeever JM, Lee M … +5 more , Abbott J, Sheldon J, Cushing A, Sheley WC, Knafo SE
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926253 · Publisher ↗
This case series describes six cases of severe bacterial bronchopneumonia in a mixed-sex group of 9-mon-old American black bear () cubs residing in a rehabilitation center in eastern Tennessee. Several months after initi...
This case series describes six cases of severe bacterial bronchopneumonia in a mixed-sex group of 9-mon-old American black bear () cubs residing in a rehabilitation center in eastern Tennessee. Several months after initial admittance to the rehabilitation center, six cubs were presented to a university teaching hospital with dyspnea, hyporexia, and lethargy of varying degrees of severity. Postmortem evaluation of an individual that died after a diagnostic evaluation revealed severe mucosuppurative bronchopneumonia. Culture of fresh lung tissue yielded a pure culture of . The other five orphaned cubs housed with this individual underwent a diagnostic evaluation and treatment. One bear died 2 d after initiation of treatment, and postmortem evaluation revealed severe bronchopneumonia as the cause of death. Another bear was euthanized after 2 wk of treatment because of significant dyspnea and lethargy. The three remaining bears responded well to treatment and were released back to the wild. Infectious etiologies are rarely a cause of morbidity or mortality in bears at this rehabilitation facility. has been implicated as a cause of septicemia in chickens, and as a zoonotic agent causing septicemia and endocarditis in immunosuppressed humans. The relevance of this suspected etiologic agent in wildlife is currently unknown, with sparse literature on the normal flora of American black bears or other North American carnivores. This case series is the first report of an outbreak of bacterial bronchopneumonia in the American black bear and the first reported death from a contagious disease at this rehabilitation facility since its inception 28 yr ago.
A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY IN NORTHERN FUR SEALS () IN UNITED STATES AQUARIA FROM 1976-2022.
Whalen LEW, Martony ME, Thompson LA … +5 more , Anderson ET, Joblon MJ, Schmitt TL, Hadfield CA, Tuttle AD
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2026 Mar · PMID 41926252 · Publisher ↗
Pathology of wild northern fur seals (NFS) () is well documented; however, data on NFS under professional care are limited. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate causes of morbidity and mortality in 6...
Pathology of wild northern fur seals (NFS) () is well documented; however, data on NFS under professional care are limited. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate causes of morbidity and mortality in 67 NFS housed in long-term professional care in United States aquaria from 1976-2022, including individuals born in the wild and those born in professional care. A review of necropsy and histopathology records was conducted to identify causes of morbidity and mortality, as well as associations among age, sex, and wild versus aquarium birth origin. Major causes of mortality included infectious diseases (n = 12), hemochromatosis (n = 10), undetermined (n = 10), and cardiovascular diseases (n = 8). Cause of mortality was significantly associated with sex (p = 0.015). Hemochromatosis and hepatic causes of mortality were identified exclusively in females. Infectious diseases were the most identified major cause of mortality and included septicemia (n = 7), toxoplasmosis (n = 3), leptospirosis (n = 1), and suppurative meningitis (n = 1). Of the septicemia cases, three were confirmed to be caused by sp. Hemochromatosis was the predominant cause of death in ten females from 8-25 years of age, with histopathology identifying hemochromatosis as a comorbidity in an additional male NFS. Hemosiderosis was a common finding in hepatic (n = 19), splenic (n = 15), lymph node (n = 6), ovarian (n = 3), bone marrow (n = 2), pulmonary (n = 1), and pancreatic (n = 1) tissues. In addition to hemosiderosis, the most common comorbidities affected the hepatobiliary (n = 36), urinary (n = 33), respiratory (n = 26), and lymphatic (n = 23) systems. While hemochromatosis has been previously reported in NFS, this is the first study to describe the prevalence in a professionally managed population. This study expands on the understanding of pathology in NFS to further improve medical management in professional care.
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