UP researcher finds ways to improve the well-being of wildlife

Abstract

Although wild animals have been captured and chemically immobilised for years (by using a form of anaesthesia induced by drugs in a dart), very little is known about the short- and long-term consequences of capture and the effects of immobilising drugs on wild animals. Dr Leith Meyer, Veterinary Sciences Pharmacology researcher at the University of Pretoria, is committed to finding solutions to improve the well-being of wild animals. The results of his research will help wildlife veterinarians and other conservation practitioners to ensure that the best methods of capture are practised and optimal immobilising drug cocktails and treatments are used. Meyer’s research attention is focused on three broad areas of work, namely the consequences of wildlife capture, the improvement of chemical immobilisation and the eco-physiological study of unique and rarely studied animals like the aardvark.