Using Dietary Supplements to Manage Iron Overload in Black Rhinos

Captive black rhino populations show significant organ damage that indicates a very high prevalence of chronic iron toxicity. Iron toxicity causes permanent damage to organs and maintains animals in a constant state of oxidative stress. This study evaluates the use of an iron-binding dietary supplement for reducing iron absorption in this endangered species. The investigators will determine iron status and absorption measurements in black rhinos given and not given the supplement. If this treatment is effective, it would have immediate positive effects on the black rhino population. By increasing dietary iron elimination, the supplement could be safely administered to captive rhinos to prevent and treat iron overload disorder.