Animal Welfare Decisions In An Amphibian Rescue
This brief article describes how rescuers used paper towels in amphibian tubs during the rescue of a large number of animals from an exotic animal dealer. There was not time to research the needs of so many different species, even where such information existed. The paper flooring may have contributed to stresses the animals were already under due to indifferent and inappropriate care, as mortality rates dropped, and normal behaviors improved, when a more natural flooring was provided. The author calls for research to better understand the needs of amphibians in captivity.
[Conference Abstract]
“Providing suitable environments for amphibians in captivity can sometimes be difficult to achieve. One key element of a suitable environment is proper substrate. Appropriate substrate encourages naturalistic behaviors and, in turn, lowers stress levels and reduces susceptibility of contracting disease or illness. In 2009, the Detroit Zoological Society participated in the largest exotic non-human animal seizure in history, with numbers reaching over 27,000. Many of these were amphibians. The species confiscated were unknown, and research of natural history was unable to be done prior to arrival. Initially, quick techniques were employed, such as plastic storage tubs with paper towel bases, for short-term housing. Housing and husbandry were progressively improved over the course of the following months to create more appropriate environments. High mortality rates occurred initially, while the animals were kept on paper towels. As substrates improved over time, mortality also improved. As a natural environment was provided, animals began to exhibit normal behaviors, such as calling and reproduction. Basic husbandry factors, like substrate choice, have a small influence on well being. However, it is the combination of many environmental and husbandry elements that determine survival. Unfortunately, many of the animals had long-term health problems prior to confiscation and might not have recovered even if they had survived the first few months. Working with animals from circumstances such as these offered the opportunity to learn more about behavioral requirements and highlighted the need for further studies on amphibian husbandry.”
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