Minimising mortalities in capturing wildlife: refinement of helicopter darting of chital deer (Axis axis) in Australia

摘要: Abstract Context Helicopter darting has been used to capture wild deer, but this method never for chital deer (Axis axis). Aim The aims of study were develop, assess and refine a helicopter technique in northern Australia by quantifying: (1) reliable pharmacological doses immobilisation; (2) the efficacy (including duration procedures); (3) frequency adverse animal welfare events. Methods was conducted three stages: an initial protocol (n = 25 captured) July−August 2018; refined second implemented June 2019 (n = 12 captured); further third captured). Parameters estimate procedures measured several events during quantified: mortality (at time within 14 days capture), hyperthermia, hypoxaemia, dart inaccuracy manual restraint. Finally, GPS location collars with mortality-sensing function monitor post-release mortality. Results Mortality 40% first stage, 25% stage 17% stage. Considerable refinement occurred between stages consultation Animal Ethics Committee. One-third all 15 mortalities at attributed ballistic trauma from impact acute myopathy. majority (n = 10) mortalities, however, only detected collars. These Conclusions poses risks, these can be minimised through selection most appropriate agents attempts preventing factors such as hyperthermia hypoxaemia that contribute development Further research into protocols is needed helicopter-based immobilisation deer. Fitting animals enabled mortality, which significant, evaluated.