Reducing Stress and Improving Supportive Care during Capture of Wildlife

Monitoring and managing the health and population status of wild animals is critical to their conservation. These activities often require capture of animals in order take samples and place tracking collars. Researchers will collect and analyze data on the effect of low-dose tranquilizers and supportive care in netgun captured animals, specifically looking at physiological and stress parameters in captured deer and bighorn sheep. After release, the animals also will be monitored with GPS tracking devices. Findings will help guide the use of drugs and supportive treatments to further improve animal welfare during capture.