current studies
In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation will fund about 120 new and continuing studies for dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, and wildlife as well as 30 veterinary student projects.
We also have numerous studies nearing completion. You can search our current study database by species and/or disease to learn more about the studies we are funding in the areas you care most about. The results will also show you whether a study is available for sponsorship.
INSTRUCTIONS - Select a division from the left column, a disease or disorder from the middle column, and a study ID number from the right column.
D06ZO-402: “Nutritional Ecology of the Black Rhinoceros”
principal investigator: Fellow: Dr. Stephane Helary; Mentor: Dr. Norman Owen-Smith, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa
sponsorship not needed
Full Sponsor: ZuPreem ® Future Generations Fund
year: 2 of 2: $13,000.00
One of the largest and most majestic mammals in the world, the black rhinoceros is also one of the most endangered. Their populations must increase rapidly to minimize the loss of genetic diversity and provide a buffer against potential poaching losses. Despite conservation management practices, the reproductive rates of sub-populations in southern Africa vary wildly. Nutrition may play a role. These researchers will study the diets of five wild populations and determine how diet affects reproduction. What they learn may provide valuable information into how to better manage and grow the populations of these highly endangered animals both in the wild and in captivity. This training grant will provide mentoring for a postdoctoral student interested in pursuing veterinary research.
