22 research outputs found
Impact of deforestation on habitat connectivity thresholds for large carnivores in tropical forests
Population demography and spatial ecology of a reintroduced lion population in the Greater Makalali Conservancy, South Africa
Many recently established small game reserves in southern Africa have introduced lion, and have had to actively manage their populations as the lion are in relatively small
Population demography and spatial ecology of a reintroduced lion population in the Greater Makalali Conservancy, South Africa
Use of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (Gn RH
Because of their size and reproductive anatomy, surgical castration is not a practical option in adult elephants. However, similar to other species in human care, the effects of gonadectomy are desired in specific situations. This may be for contraceptive purposes, or for behavioural or veterinary management of elephants in human care or wild elephants managed in small reserves. Research into non‐surgical contraceptive measures for wild and domestic animals has resulted in an array of hormonal and immunological options to downregulate gonadal function. Driven by the production‐animal industry, commercial gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) vaccines are readily and cheaply available. This immunocontraceptive is effective in both males and females as it inhibits gonadotrophic hormone release and, thus, downstream stimulation of testicles and ovaries. Here, available studies from the past 10 years on the GnRH vaccine application in male and female elephants are reviewed. Furthermore, we add our own experience gathered from the treatment of male African elephants Loxodonta africana and female Asian elephants Elephas maximus in human care. The GnRH vaccine offers a viable approach for various management purposes. It should be noted that the GnRH vaccine was not primarily designed as a reversible contraceptive. Therefore, its use must be well justified on an individual basis and the effects closely monitored.https://zslpublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/174810902020-07-01hj2020Anatomy and PhysiologyProduction Animal Studie