Abstract:
Hyperthermia is described as the major cause of morbidity and mortality associated with
capture, immobilization and restraint of wild animals. Therefore, accurately determining the core body temperature of wild animals during capture is crucial for monitoring hyperthermia
and the efficacy of cooling procedures. We investigated if microchip thermometry can
accurately reflect core body temperature changes during capture and cooling interventions in
the springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), a medium-sized antelope. Subcutaneous temperature
measured with a temperature-sensitive microchip was a weak predictor of core body
temperature measured by temperature-sensitive data loggers in the abdominal cavity
(R2=0.32, bias >2 °C). Temperature-sensitive microchips in the gluteus muscle, however,
provided an accurate estimate of core body temperature (R2=0.76, bias=0.012 °C). Microchips
inserted into muscle therefore provide a convenient and accurate method to measure body
temperature continuously in captured antelope, allowing detection of hyperthermia and the
efficacy of cooling procedures.
