Developing an Early Pregnancy Test for Species Conservation

Few tools exist to confirm pregnancy across wild mammal species. The majority of these tests are species-specific and limited to later in gestation, or require lengthy repeated testing. Early pregnancy diagnosis would provide a better understanding of gestation times and improve managed care for conservation populations. Researchers will investigate a fecal marker for its value as an early indicator of pregnancy and use this new information to develop a pregnancy test for African lions, dama gazelle and maned wolf. This new test could be adapted for use in other species and will enhance assisted-reproductive techniques for vulnerable and endangered animals, critical for wildlife welfare and conservation.