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Simple Summary: One male adult crested porcupine was found moribund in the province of Siena (Tuscany, Central Italy), and died soon after being recovered by a wildlife rescue service. At necropsy, a rounded nodule was noted on the surface of the heart. Differential diagnoses included abscess, systemic tuberculosis, parasitic cyst, and neoplasia. Histology was performed on the lesion, revealing a cystic formation in the epicardium. The cyst was lined by stratified squamous epithelium and was filled with lamellar keratin without hair shafts. The lesion was diagnosed as an epicardial epidermoid cyst (EC). EC are most commonly found in the skin, both in human and animal patients, although rarely they can occur in various internal organs. However, cardiac EC has not been reported before in animals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of EC in a wild animal species. The crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) is present in central Italy with an estimated population of 1800 individuals. Despite the local abundance, little data are available on the diseases affecting free-ranging individuals. We describe a case of an epidermoid cyst (EC) in a male adult porcupine found in the municipality of Sovicille, province of Siena (Tuscany). At necropsy, a firm rounded nodule was noted on the left ventricle wall. Histological examination revealed a cystic formation lined by stratified squamous epithelium. The cyst was filled with lamellar keratin, while hair shafts were not present. The adjacent epicardium was infiltrated by lymphoplasmacytic cells in reaction to the rupture of the cyst with the spilling of keratinaceous debris. The lesion was diagnosed as a ruptured epicardial epidermoid cyst. EC are most commonly found in the skin, both in human and animal patients, though infrequently, they can occur in any internal organ. Cardiac EC has not been reported in domestic animals, and this is the first report of EC in a wild animal species. Clinical veterinarians should consider the possibility of similar cardiac lesions in captive subjects since the long lifespan of these rodents could allow the growth of the cyst with the compression of the adjacent tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Wild birds are at risk of death owing to human activities, including indirect human threats, such as environmental pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. This study was conducted to analyze the records of birds rescued by the Jeonbuk Wildlife Center in the Republic of Korea to identify the problems and trends in terms of injury and disease that most affect free-living wild birds. From January 2019 to February 2021, medical records, including species, date, and location of rescue, cause of hospitalization, diagnosis, and treatment records, were obtained for all admitted birds. The analysis included 1464 birds belonging to 106 species. The main admitted causes were being orphaned, window collisions, and trauma from unknown reasons. Inflammatory conditions were predominant in diagnoses mainly caused by trauma and infection. The most frequent diagnoses were dehydration, integumentary injuries, and neurological injuries. The inflammation-related diagnosis accounted for 82% of all diagnoses. Insufficient reports are available on what clinical and pathological conditions are observed in rescued free-living wild birds. This study investigated recent diagnoses of admitted wild birds based on admission causes in a southwestern area of South Korea over the past 2 years. A retrospective study was conducted on 1464 birds rescued from 2019 to February 2021. Overall, 12 admission subcategories were classified, and the diagnoses identified for each cause were analyzed. The three most frequently observed categories, general, integumentary, and musculoskeletal, each accounted for 20% of the total diagnoses. Trauma accounted for 71.4% of all diagnoses, and 81.5% featured inflammatory conditions, primarily due to trauma or infection. The proportion of birds that presented inflammatory conditions was much greater than the proportion of birds that were admitted due to trauma-related causes. This was because inflammatory diseases were identified at a high frequency, even from nontraumatic admission causes, and inflammatory conditions were not easily revealed. Suspecting an inflammatory condition in most rescued birds is advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: A decline in European hedgehog populations has been reported in several European countries over the past years. Human activities, along with global warming and infectious diseases, appear to be the main drivers of this phenomenon. The present study aimed to determine the major causes of mortality and the main pathological findings in European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) submitted to postmortem examination at two institutes of veterinary pathology, one located in Italy (Piedmont region) and one in Switzerland (Canton of Zurich). Hedgehogs were found in affected health status in the wild, mostly due to traumatic injury, poor overall condition and respiratory, gastrointestinal or neurological signs. The primary causes of death identified were infectious diseases and traumatic insults. The lungs were the most commonly affected organ, mainly displaying pneumonia, which was significantly associated with the presence of nematodes. These findings should be held in mind when treating the species presented to wildlife rescue centers and highlight the importance of proper education of the public on how to coexist and interact with hedgehog populations inhabiting urban areas. European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) are nocturnal insectivores frequently found in urban areas. In the last decades, their population has declined in various European countries and human activities have emerged as significant contributors to this trend. While the literature has mainly focused on trauma as the major cause of mortality, few authors have considered pathological findings. The present study is based on the results of full post-mortem examinations performed on 162 European hedgehogs in Italy and 109 in Switzerland. Unlike in previous studies, the main cause of mortality was infectious diseases (60.5%), followed by traumatic insults (27.7%). The lungs were the main organ affected, showing mostly lymphoplasmacytic (45.9%), granulomatous (18.1%) or suppurative (8.2%) pneumonia. Nematodes were detected in 57.2% of all lungs and were significantly associated with pneumonia (p-value < 0.001). To our knowledge, this is the first study to report infectious diseases as the main cause of hedgehog death, emphasizing the need for wildlife rescue centers to adopt appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic measures. Further research is necessary to determine the broad range of infectious agents that affect this species and elucidate their interplay with the host. Finally, citizen sensitization should be implemented to promote responsible behaviors that could reduce human-related traumatic events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Wildlife rescue centers frequently admit animals with injuries and bone fractures. Open fractures are common in birds due to their anatomy, and this can lead to complications like osteomyelitis, which implies a serious bone infection and often necrosis, or death of the affected bone tissue. Antibiotic therapy is crucial, but the rise in antimicrobial-resistant isolates in wildlife raises concerns about treatment efficacy. A study focused on isolating, identifying, and assessing antimicrobial resistance in bacteria from wounds and fractures in wild birds. Among 36 isolates, Staphylococcus spp. dominated (63.8%), with 82.6% exhibiting antimicrobial resistance, particularly to clindamycin, an antimicrobial key in the treatment of infected bone fractures. This escalating resistance poses a dual threat to wildlife—therapeutic failure and the spread of resistant bacteria in ecosystems. Injuries and bone fractures are the most frequent causes of admission at wildlife rescue centers. Wild birds are more susceptible to open fractures due to their anatomical structure, which can lead to osteomyelitis and necrosis. Antibiotic therapy in these cases is indispensable, but the increase of antimicrobial-resistant isolates in wildlife has become a significant concern in recent years. In this context, the likelihood of antibiotic failure and death of animals with infectious issues is high. This study aimed to isolate, identify, and assess the antimicrobial resistance pattern of bacteria in wounds and open fractures in wild birds. To this end, injured birds admitted to a wildlife rescue center were sampled, and bacterial isolation and identification were performed. Then, antimicrobial susceptibility testing was assessed according to the disk diffusion method. In total, 36 isolates were obtained from 26 different birds. The genera detected were Staphylococcus spp. (63.8%), Escherichia (13.9%), Bacillus (11.1%), Streptococcus (8.3%), and Micrococcus (2.8%). Among Staphylococcus isolates, S. lentus and S. aureus were the most frequent species. Antimicrobial resistance was detected in 82.6% of the isolates, among which clindamycin resistance stood out, and 31.6% of resistant isolates were considered multidrug-resistant. Results from this study highlight the escalating scope of antimicrobial resistance in wildlife. This level of resistance poses a dual concern for wildlife: firstly, the risk of therapeutic failure in species of significant environmental value, and, secondly, the circulation of resistant bacteria in ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We reviewed the database of a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center in Costa Rica and described the main causes of admission, the admission factors that influenced release and mortality, and the predictive factors of survival and mortality of wildlife to determine general patterns and relevant factors currently affecting wildlife in Costa Rica. The results of the study demonstrate the value of maintaining, improving, and studying databases from wildlife rehabilitation centers to lead to a better understanding of threats to wildlife and subsequent implementation of conservation actions. The evaluation of data regarding rehabilitation practices provides reference values for comparison purposes among different rehabilitation centers to critically review protocols and efficiently improve each center. The aim of the present work was to present the main causes of admission to Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center for each taxonomic group, to determine the admission factors that influenced the release and mortality, and to determine the predictive factors of release and mortality of wildlife. To this end, a retrospective study was carried out based on 5785 admissions registered in the database of Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica in 2020 and 2021. Statistical analysis consisted of sample characterization via the analysis of several categorical variables: species, order, class, age group, cause of admission, outcome, clinical classification and days in the hospital, and respective association with the mortality or release rate. Most of the rescue animals were birds (59.3%), then mammals (20.7%), reptiles (17.4%), and finally 'others' (2.6%). The main causes of admission were 'captivity' (34.9%), 'found' (23.3%), and 'trauma' (19.3%). Animals rescued due to 'captivity' and the classes 'birds' and 'reptiles' had the highest release rates. The causes of admission 'trauma' and 'orphanhood' and the class 'birds' had the highest mortality rates. In general, a greater number of days spent in the hospital and membership in the classes 'reptiles', 'juveniles', in need of 'basic care', or 'clinically healthy' were predictors of survival. In contrast, the age groups 'infant' and 'nestling' were predictors of mortality. These results demonstrate the value of maintaining, improving, and studying databases from wildlife rehabilitation centers, as they can provide useful information that can be used to enhance the allocation of economic resources, treatment methods, disease surveillance, public education, and regulatory decision-making, leading to a better understanding of threats to wildlife and subsequent implementation of conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study presents the Speaker Method as a novel approach for wildlife offspring release to facilitate their reunion with their mothers in their natural habitats, thereby avoiding the need for captive rearing. This method uses call records of the offspring to attract their mothers effectively. In this context, we aimed to prove the Speaker Method's efficacy in releasing the offspring of three mammal species that arrived at a wildlife rescue center. The study showed promising results, successfully releasing 45.8% of Hoffmann's two-toed sloths, 91.9% of brown-throated sloths, and 50% of mantled howler monkeys. These results provide empirical effectiveness for the Speaker Method as a release technique for offspring, underscoring its superiority over conventional nursery care by humans facing inherent challenges in rearing young animals separated from their maternal sources. Nowadays, wild animals are threatened by humans, with the number of species and individuals decreasing during recent years. Wildlife rescue centers play a vital role in the conservation of wildlife populations. This study aims to describe a new release technique, the Speaker Method, to rescue and facilitate the reunion of different baby mammals that arrived at a wildlife rescue center with their mothers within their natural habitat, avoiding the need for captivity. This method is based on a recorded baby's cry played on a speaker to make a "call effect" in the mother. The efficacy of the Speaker Method for babies' reunion with their mothers was 45.8% in Hoffmann's two-toed sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni) and 91.9% in brown-throated sloths (Bradypus variegatus). Among the mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata), 50% of the babies could be released using this new technique. The findings suggest that the method could be helpful in the early release of young individuals, highlighting higher release outcomes in these three species compared to traditional nursery care provided by human caretakers, who face inherent difficulties in raising young animals without their mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study assessed the efficacy of treating snowy owls naturally infected by Plasmodium relictum with atovaquone (AV) and proguanil (PH). AV/PH was administered at 10/4 mg/kg/day for three days, repeated a week later. Results showed the treatment was effective in clearing the parasite from the birds' blood, with no relapses observed. Additionally, hematological improvements were noted, suggesting recovery. No significant adverse effects were observed, indicating the safety of the treatment. This study highlights the potential of AV/PH as a treatment option for avian malaria in unconventional or endangered bird species. Avian malaria is a re-emerging threat to avian species worldwide. It is sustained by several protozoan species belonging to the genus Plasmodium, mainly Plasmodium relictum. The even wider diffusion of the disease, probably because of the increase in the areas covered by their mosquito vectors, may pose new risks for avian species lacking natural resistance (especially those from artic or sub-artic environments) or those hosted in structures like zoos and wildlife rescue centers. With that premise, this study describes the efficacy and safety of a therapeutic protocol to treat avian malaria in three snowy owls (Bubo scandiacus) hosted in a wildlife rescue center in Apulia, south of Italy, and affected by avian malaria by P. relictum. The protocol consisted of administering 10/4 mg/kg atovaquone/proguanil per os once a day for three consecutive days, repeating this seven days later. Seven days after the end of the treatment, P. relictum was not detected in the birds' blood and no adverse effects were observed during the 60 days of monitoring after the end of the treatment. Therefore, a therapeutic regimen of 10/4 mg/kg/day may be considered safe and effective in a valuable and endangered species such as B. scandiacus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The illegal wildlife trade is a significant threat to biodiversity, with animals being taken from the wild and sold illegally. Often, species with the greatest demand are those that are already threatened, with illegal trade placing even more pressure on these populations. Knowing where traded animals or animal parts have come from is critically important for enforcement, education, and conservation actions. Using three highly traded Philippine species, the Palawan forest turtle, the Philippine cockatoo, and the Philippine pangolin, we developed a novel method of determining the geographic origin of animals or animal parts using a portable X-ray fluorescence device. This method can make significant contributions to combating the illegal wildlife trade through providing a rapid, non-destructive, cost-effective method for identifying the source of traded animals. End users of this tool include enforcement agencies, border force officials, wildlife rescue centres, and conservation researchers. The illegal wildlife trade is a significant threat to global biodiversity, often targeting already threatened species. In combating the trade, it is critical to know the provenance of the traded animal or part to facilitate targeted conservation actions, such as education and enforcement. Here, we present and compare two methods, portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and stable isotope analysis (SIA), to determine both the geographic and source provenance (captive or wild) of traded animals and their parts. Using three critically endangered, frequently illegally traded Philippine species, the Palawan forest turtle (Siebenrockiella leytensis), the Philippine cockatoo (Cacatua haematuropygia), and the Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensisis), we demonstrate that using these methods, we can more accurately assign provenance using pXRF data ( x ¯   = 83%) than SIA data ( x ¯   = 47%). Our results indicate that these methods provide a valuable forensic tool that can be used in combating the illegal wildlife trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The scientific community has recently turned its interest to wildlife, including birds, as a potential marker of environmental antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this work was to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility of 100 commensal Escherichia coli strains isolated from wild birds admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Perugia (Central Italy) and the possible presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli and Salmonella spp. Antimicrobials have been selected on the basis of their relevance for public health. The majority of the birds investigated were nocturnal and diurnal raptors and came from "WildUmbria", a wildlife rescue centre in Central Italy. The initial clinical assessment revealed injuries mainly due to traumatic events. The E. coli isolates displayed significant resistance (p < 0.001) to ampicillin (85%) and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (47%), which are widely used in veterinary and human medicine. Resistance to ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime, and ceftazidime showed values of 18%, 17% and 15%, respectively. Eight out of the hundred E. coli isolates (8%) were ESBL and seven displayed a multidrug resistance profile. Salmonella spp. was not isolated. Resistance to beta-lactams in all multidrug-resistant E. coli, including the presence of third-generation cephalosporins, highlights the need to increase wildlife monitoring studies to assess the potential risk to public health. The role of wildlife, including birds, in antimicrobial resistance is nowadays a speculative topic for the scientific community as they could be spreaders/sources of antimicrobial resistance genes. In this respect, we aimed to investigate the antimicrobial susceptibility of 100 commensal Escherichia coli strains, isolated from wild birds from an Umbrian rescue centre and admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Perugia (Central Italy) mainly for traumatic injuries. The possible presence of Salmonella spp. and ESBL-producing E. coli was also estimated. The highest prevalence of resistance was observed for ampicillin (85%) and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (47%), probably due to their extensive use in human and veterinary medicine. Seventeen out of the one hundred E. coli isolates (17%) displayed a multidrug-resistance profile, including the beta-lactam category, with the most common resistance patterns to three or four classes of antibiotics. Resistance to ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime and ceftazidime exhibited values of 18%, 17% and 15%, respectively. Eight out of the hundred E. coli isolates (8%) were ESBL and seven showed multidrug resistance profiles. Salmonella spp. was not isolated. Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins, also detected in long-distance migratory birds, suggests the need for monitoring studies to define the role of wild birds in antimicrobial resistance circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Wildlife rescue centers play a key role for crested porcupine rescue and conservation. There is a lack of guidelines for management and liberation, which is a crucial issue, especially for porcupettes to ensure a suitable behavioral development for wildlife. In this work, preliminary data on the post-liberation behavior and survival of rescued porcupines under different management and liberation strategies were collected, providing the first useful knowledge base and fulfilling the urgency to develop official guidelines. The crested porcupine is a frequent host species in wildlife rescue centers and no guidelines for its management, liberation and post-liberation monitoring are yet available. Here, captive-grown porcupines' behavior and survival in the wild after liberation were investigated and described for the first time. Management strategies adopted at the centers could affect porcupine adaptation to the natural environment. The detention of porcupettes in single cages and fed only human-supplied food may not ensure ethological welfare, nor a suitable behavioral development compatible with wildlife. The liberation of captive-grown porcupines should also be carefully planned to promote and increase the possibility of post-liberation success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Wildlife may be zoonotic carriers of pathogens. The aim of this paper was to investigate the presence of Campylobacter (C.) jejuni and C. coli, which are responsible for enteric syndromes and sometimes extraintestinal diseases in humans, in wild birds housed at a wildlife rescue centre. Sensitivity to antibiotics was also investigated in the detected strains. Two hundred and nine birds belonging to 33 different species were considered in the study. Campylobacter was found in 52 birds (24.88%), mainly in omnivorous species. In terms of housing conditions, the infection rate was higher in birds housed in indoor (57.14%) than in outdoor aviaries (31.74%). Interestingly, Campylobacter was not detected in some species whose mean temperature body was below 40 °C or higher than 42.2 °C. All detected strains were C. jejuni except for three C. coli that were identified in Long-eared Owls. The most commonly found antibiotic resistance was against drugs such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin. Multi-drug resistance against two or more antibiotics was also detected. The findings of the study highlight the relevance of increasing biosecurity measures at the wildlife rescue centres to reduce health risks to staff involved in wildlife management. Climate change, excessive exploitation of agricultural land which reduces natural habitats, wildlife shooting, and the use of pesticides all cause difficulties for wildlife, with considerable numbers of animals being brought to wildlife rescue centres. Although the efforts of staff involved in wildlife management at these centres usually focus on therapeutic treatments to reintroduce them into the wild, the monitoring of pathogens that may be transmitted to humans is of relevance. Campylobacter (C.) jejuni and C. coli are frequently carried by animals without inducing clinical signs and are responsible for enteric disorders and more rarely extra-intestinal disease in humans. Farm species and poultry, in particular, are the main reservoirs of C. jejuni and C. coli, but wild animals may also be carriers. The aim of this paper was to investigate the presence of C. jejuni and C. coli in wild birds housed at a wildlife rescue centre and to evaluate the sensitivity of the detected strains to antibiotics. Campylobacter was found in 52 out of 209 (24.88%) birds from 33 different species. C. jejuni was more prevalent, while C. coli was only detected in three Long-eared Owls (Asio otus). The incidence of the infection was particularly high (72.22%) among omnivorous species. Infection rates were higher in birds housed indoors (57.14%) than outdoors (31.74%). Moreover, Campylobacter was not detected in species whose mean temperature body is below 40 °C or higher than 42.2 °C. The most common antibiotic resistance in the tested strains was against trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin. In addition, multi-drug resistance was also found. The results highlight the need to increase biosecurity measures at rescue centres so as to reduce health-related risks to workers involved in wildlife management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Eye examination is crucial for therapeutic plans and rehabilitation of birds in wildlife rehabilitation centers. However, fundus examination using classical direct or indirect ophthalmoscopy techniques can be challenging in those species. The aim of the study was to assess the use of a smartphone-based retinal imaging system in birds. Fundus examination was feasible in most bird species examined in this study. The difficulties of carrying out the examination seem to be related to the form of the globe, the color of the iris, and the quality of pupil dilation. Further investigations are necessary to confirm these findings. Ophthalmic examination is essential in the avian triage process in order to apply prompt therapeutic plans and evaluate rehabilitation potential. Fundoscopy is traditionally performed by direct or indirect ophthalmoscopy. Recent technological developments have enabled the design of a small-sized and affordable retinal imaging system to examine the fundus. We investigate the use of a smartphone-based device to realize fundus examination through a prospective cross-sectional observational study. Seventy-seven eyes of 39 birds of 15 different species were evaluated using the smartphone-based device in a rescue wildlife center. Pupil dilation was achieved prior to examination via rocuronium topical application. Assessment of fundus by the smartphone was classified as satisfactory, moderately satisfactory, and unsatisfactory. Fundus examination was also performed with a 20D, 30D, or 78D lens for comparison. Pupillary dilation was satisfactory, moderately satisfactory, or absent in 17, 32, and 28 eyes, respectively. Fundus examination with the smartphone-based device was satisfactory, moderately satisfactory, or unsatisfactory in 44, 15, and 18 eyes, respectively. The feasibility of the fundus examination was affected by the form of the globe; by the quality of pupil dilation; by the color of the iris (images could not be obtained from species with an orange, bright iris); and by the species, with owls (Strigiformes) being the easiest to observe. Based on these findings, fundus examination was feasible in most bird species examined in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Little is known about how exposure to novel stimuli during rescue and rehabilitation could affect the physiology of native wildlife. We investigated this question in a species commonly rescued for rehabilitation, the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). Glucocorticoids (major hormones involved in stress responses) are metabolised in the body and excreted in the form of faecal glucocorticoid metabolites, which can be measured as a way of evaluating the response of animals to potential stressors. Comparing five enzyme immunoassay options, we found that the 11-oxoaetiocholanolone (abbreviation: 72a) EIA was the most suitable for measuring these metabolites in brushtail possums. This assay was then used to measure faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in 20 possums during rehabilitation. The probability of a physiological "stress" response occurring within five days of a potentially stressful event was about 50%, regardless of the type of event. There was a high level of variation in hormone profiles between possums. Our study has demonstrated that injured and orphaned possums show detectable changes in faecal glucocorticoid metabolites during captivity and rehabilitation, and has identified events that can induce a physiological response in some individuals. This is the first step toward understanding the relationship between these responses during rehabilitation and survival. Volunteer wildlife rehabilitators rescue and rehabilitate thousands of native animals every year in Australia. However, there is little known about how exposure to novel stimuli during rehabilitation could affect the physiology of wildlife. We investigated this question in a species that commonly enters rehabilitation, the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula). We evaluated five enzyme immunoassays (EIA) to determine the most suitable for measuring faecal glucocorticoid metabolites (FGM) as a proxy for evaluating the response of brushtail possums to potential stressors during rehabilitation. An adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH) challenge was conducted on wild-caught possums to determine the best-performing EIA based on the successful detection of FGM peaks in at least two of three possums. While a number of assays met these criteria, the 11-oxoaetiocholanolone (abbreviation: 72a) EIA was selected as it had the largest amplitude of change in response to the ACTH challenge. This assay was then used to measure FGM concentrations in 20 possums during rehabilitation. There was high variation in baseline FGM concentrations and response to captivity between possums. Significant changes in FGM levels were detected in most possums during captivity, but were not reliably associated with potentially stressful events that were identified by rehabilitators. The probability of an FGM peak occurring within five days of a potentially stressful event was about 50%, regardless of the type of event. Our study has demonstrated that injured and orphaned possums show changes in FGMs during captivity and rehabilitation and has identified events that can induce a physiological response in some individuals. We recommend that research now focus on the relationship between these responses during rehabilitation and pre- and post-release survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Slow lorises are nocturnal primates native to south-east Asia. All the species of slow loris have been listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). It is difficult to artificially detect the slow loris due to its nocturnal habit and venomous bite. This article investigates the feasibility of computer vision for slow loris detection and proposes an improved YOLOv5 algorithm that contributes to formulating an available model for behavior recognition of this endangered taxon. The slow loris (Genus Nycticebus) is a group of small, nocturnal and venomous primates with a distinctive locomotion mode. The detection of slow loris plays an important role in the subsequent individual identification and behavioral recognition and thus contributes to formulating targeted conservation strategies, particularly in reintroduction and post-release monitoring. However, fewer studies have been conducted on efficient and accurate detection methods of this endangered taxa. The traditional methods to detect the slow loris involve long-term observation or watching surveillance video repeatedly, which would involve manpower and be time consuming. Because humans cannot maintain a high degree of attention for a long time, they are also prone to making missed detections or false detections. Due to these observational challenges, using computer vision to detect slow loris presence and activity is desirable. This article establishes a novel target detection dataset based on monitoring videos of captive Bengal slow loris (N. bengalensis) from the wildlife rescue centers in Xishuangbanna and Pu'er, Yunnan, China. The dataset is used to test two improvement schemes based on the YOLOv5 network: (1) YOLOv5-CBAM + TC, the attention mechanism and deconvolution are introduced; (2) YOLOv5-SD, the small object detection layer is added. The results demonstrate that the YOLOv5-CBAM + TC effectively improves the detection effect. At the cost of increasing the model size by 0.6 MB, the precision rate, the recall rate and the mean average precision (mAP) are increased by 2.9%, 3.7% and 3.5%, respectively. The YOLOv5-CBAM + TC model can be used as an effective method to detect individual slow loris in a captive environment, which helps to realize slow loris face and posture recognition based on computer vision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Koala populations in southeast Queensland are under threat from many factors, particularly habitat loss, dog attack, vehicle trauma and disease. Animals not killed from these impacts are often rescued and taken into care for rehabilitation, and eventual release back to the wild if deemed to be healthy. This study investigated current rescue, rehabilitation and release data for koalas admitted to the four major wildlife hospitals in southeast Queensland (Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital (AZWH), Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Hospital (CWH), Moggill Koala Hospital (MKH) and the Royal Society for the Prevention Against Cruelty to Animals Wildlife Hospital atWacol (RSPCA)), and suggests aspects of the practice that may be changed to improve its contribution to the preservation of the species. It concluded that: (a) the main threats to koalas across southeast Queensland were related to urbanization (vehicle collisions, domestic animal attacks and the disease chlamydiosis); (b) case outcomes varied amongst hospitals, including time spent in care, euthanasia and release rates; and (c) the majority (66.5%) of rescued koalas were either euthanized or died in care with only 27% released back to the wild. The results from this study have important implications for further research into koala rescue and rehabilitation to gain a better understanding of its effectiveness as a conservation strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The genus Circovirus groups some of the smallest viruses capable of autonomous replication, including some notable swine and avian pathogens. Among domestic and wild birds, circoviruses are often associated with immunosuppression and integumental disorders, but, despite their relevance, nothing is known about their circulation in birds of prey. By conducting molecular analyses on samples from birds of prey recovered by a wildlife rescue centre in Italy, we identified a new viral species in the spleen of a tawny owl (Strix aluco). However, there is contrasting evidence regarding its definitive host. On one hand, the virus was discovered to be phylogenetically closer to mammalian rather than avian circoviruses, which allows speculations on its host being a micromammal preyed by the tawny owl, rather than the bird itself. On the other hand, its detection in the spleen, a lymphoid organ in which other avian circoviruses are often detected, supports the tawny owl being its actual host, perhaps following a spillover event associated with predation. Adding to the growing number of circoviruses found in recent years in a diverse range of hosts, this discovery represents another step forward in the characterization of this genus of remarkable veterinary importance. Thanks to recent developments in molecular methods, many new species have been discovered within the genus Circovirus, which comprises viruses of veterinary relevance found in a broad range of hosts. In particular, several circoviruses are known to infect birds, often causing immunosuppression and feathering disorders. Nonetheless, nothing is known about their circulation in birds of prey. In this study, samples from 61 birds of prey representing ten different species, recovered by a wildlife rescue centre in Southern Italy, were taken at necropsy and analysed by PCR with pan-Circovirus primers. Only one sample, collected from a tawny owl (Strix aluco), tested positive. Its genome, sequenced by primer walking, displays the typical features of circoviruses. Based on demarcation criteria, the detected strain qualifies as a novel species, which was named "tawny owl-associated circovirus" (ToCV). Phylogenetically, ToCV clustered with mammalian rather than avian circoviruses, and its closeness to a rodent circovirus suggests that its host may have been a micromammal eaten by the tawny owl. On the other hand, its detection in the spleen fits with the tropism of other avian circoviruses. Little can be therefore said on its biology and pathogenicity, and further efforts are needed to better characterize its epidemiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Roe deer, whose populations are increasing and expanding throughout Europe, are suitable hosts for the maintenance of a variety of infectious tick-vectored microorganisms, that can infect both animals and humans. In this study the presence of tick-transmitted pathogens was investigated in roe deer recovered by a wildlife rescue center based in Italy. This kind of samples represents a convenient material for investigations under several aspects for both animals and researchers. Notably, no live trapping or killing are required to obtain samples, as they are collected in the context of the rescue activities and aimed to frame the health status of the animal. The investigated blood samples showed high positive rates to typical roe deer-related microorganisms (such as Babesia capreoli), and to the zoonotic agent Babesia venatorum. Roe deer were also positive to Anaplasma phagocytophilum strains mainly considered apathogenic or limited to wild ungulates. The obtained results underline the importance of a constant investigation on circulating tick-borne pathogens in roe deer, and generally speaking, in wild animal species, due to their potential role as a key factor in the endemic cycle of important infectious agents for domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. Babesia ssp. and Anaplasma spp. are tick-borne microorganisms representing a possible health risk for domestic and wild animals, as well as humans. Roe deer serve as a suitable reservoir host for some species ascribed to Babesia spp. and Anaplasma phagocytophilum taxa, also due to its important role in the maintenance of large populations of Ixodes ricinus, the main tick vector of these pathogens in Europe. Roe deer populations have been recently expanding throughout Europe, namely in Italy. However, the collection of samples from free-ranging wild animals for diagnostic investigations often includes several practical issues. This problem can be overcome using samples provided by wildlife rescue centers making them available for investigations following routine analyses. The presence of Babesia spp. and Anaplasma spp. in blood samples of 43 roe deer rescued by a wildlife rescue center in Emilia-Romagna region (Italy) was molecularly investigated. PCR screening revealed the presence of at least one pathogen in 86.05% of the animals, while co-infection occurred in 18.92% of the tested individuals. Zoonotic Babesia venatorum was found in 6.98% of the samples, while Babesia capreoli and Anaplasma phagocytophilum were detected in 74.42% and in 20.93%, respectively. No hematological signs compatible with clinical anaplasmosis or piroplasmosis, as well as absence of intracellular circulating microorganisms in blood smears, were observed, suggesting asymptomatic infection in the tested animals. These results confirm the usefulness of wild rescued animals as convenient source of biological samples for tick-borne pathogens investigation and the role of roe deer as a key factor in the endemic cycle of Babesia species and A. phagocytophilum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The European hedgehog is a very common animal in Europe. This animal usually lives in woods but often it is possible to find it in gardens and parks in urban areas. Few studies describe parasites infecting the European hedgehog in Italy. In the present study, endoparasite infections and associated lesions were investigated in hedgehogs from two different regions of central Italy (Latium and Tuscany), where no investigations had been performed before. Several helminth and protozoan species were identified in the intestine and respiratory tract of the animals analyzed. The presence of the respiratory worm Crenosoma striatum was found to be associated with bronchial lesions. This study contributed to the knowledge of parasitic infections of the European hedgehog, the most frequently hospitalized animal in wildlife rescue centers. The European hedgehog is a synanthropic mammal, widely distributed in Europe. This species usually inhabits the edges of deciduous or mixed woods, but it is also very common in private gardens and public parks. Despite its popularity and frequency of contacts both with humans and with wild and domestic animals, few studies have examined the endoparasitic fauna of the hedgehog in Italy. In the present study, endoparasites of naturally deceased hedgehogs (n = 40) from central Italy (Latium and Tuscany regions) were investigated, along with concurrent gross and histopathological lesions. The most prevalent identified endoparasites were Crenosoma striatum (45%), Capillaria erinacei (42.5%) and Brachylaemus erinacei (22.5%), in accordance with previous reports from hedgehogs in southern Italy. In few subjects, Physaloptera clausa, Acanthocephalans and Cystoisospora rastegaeivae coccidia were also identified. The infection by the lungworm C. striatum was found to be significantly associated (p < 0.01) with bronchial hyperplasia and peribronchiolitis upon histopathological examination. Awareness of the most common parasitic infections in the hedgehog and of their effects on the health of these animals is extremely important, especially in wildlife rescue centers, where European hedgehog represents the most frequently hospitalized mammal species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Animal-vehicle collisions are the major cause of rescue and need for hospitalization in wildlife referral centers. Radiography is used to assess the traumatized animal and is a rapid means to evaluate various traumatic pathologies. Clinicians can exploit radiography when making rapid decisions about whether to euthanize or treat an animal. We evaluated data (reasons for rescue, diagnosed lesions, and outcome) from a population of hospitalized wildlife ungulates and we investigated the benefits of using radiography as a diagnostic tool. Animal-vehicle collisions are the major cause of rescue and need for hospitalization in wildlife referral centers. Clinicians need easy-to-use tools to make rapid decisions about whether to euthanize or treat injured animals. The aim of the study was to evaluate the data (reasons for rescue, diagnosed lesions, and outcome) from a hospitalized population of wildlife ungulates and investigate the benefits of using radiography as a diagnostic tool. Data were collected from three wildlife referral centers in Tuscany (Italy). The following information was collected for each animal: reason for hospitalization, clinical examination, radiographic examination, definitive diagnosis, and outcome. A chi-squared test was used to assess the benefits of radiography in detecting different traumatic lesions. Prevalence was reported according to the reason for hospitalization, definitive diagnosis, radiographic diagnosis, and outcome. The main reason for hospitalization was traumatic lesions due to vehicle collisions and 71.1% of the animals did not survive. Radiography was more useful in patients with traumatic axial skeletal lesions and/or multiple traumas with respect to traumatic appendicular skeleton lesions. Our results show that radiography is a useful diagnostic technique for assessing wildlife emergencies and it could help the clinician in making medical decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Koala populations in Australia are declining and the species is vulnerable to extinction. In the past decade, grazing livestock emerged anecdotally as a threat to koala survival; cattle and horses were reported to have trampled koalas to death when encountered on the ground. In this study, we investigated the scale, frequency, and outcome of livestock-inflicted incidents to koalas via an online survey, and analysed koala admission records from Queensland wildlife hospitals and a wildlife rescue group (Wildlife Victoria) in Victoria. The results provide evidence of both livestock-inflicted injuries and deaths to koalas, especially as these have been confirmed by witness statements. The outcomes for the koala victims of the incidents were severe, which had a 75% death rate. The reported frequency of livestock–koala incidents was low but increasing, with 72 cases (0.14% out of 50,873 admissions) in Queensland wildlife hospitals during 1997–2019, and 59 cases (0.8% of 7017 rescue records) in Wildlife Victoria during 2007–2019, but it is recognised that this was likely to be under-reported. Future research is encouraged to explore the causes of livestock–koala incidents and to develop management strategies to minimise the livestock threat to koalas. Koala populations in Australia are declining due to threats such as chlamydiosis, wild dog predation and vehicle collision. In the last decade, grazing livestock emerged anecdotally as a threat to koala survival in areas where koala habitat and livestock grazing land overlap. This is the first study investigating the significance of livestock-inflicted injuries and deaths in koala populations over a large spatial and temporal scale. We investigated the outcome, scale, and frequency of livestock–koala incidents via an online survey and analysed koala admission records in Queensland wildlife hospitals and a wildlife rescue group (Wildlife Victoria) in Victoria. The results provide evidence of both livestock-inflicted injuries and deaths to koalas, especially as these have been confirmed by witness statements. The outcomes for the koala victims of the incidents were severe with a 75% mortality rate. The reported frequency of livestock–koala incidents was low but increasing, with 72 cases (0.14% out of 50,873 admissions) in Queensland wildlife hospitals during 1997–2019, and 59 cases (0.8% of 7017 rescue records) in Wildlife Victoria during 2007–2019. These incidents were likely to be under-reported due to the remoteness of the incident location, possible mis-diagnoses by veterinarians and the possible reluctance of farmers to report them. Future research is encouraged to explore the mechanics and causes of livestock–koala incidents and to develop management strategies to minimise the livestock threat to koalas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of non-typhoidal Salmonella in the turtles housed in a regional wildlife rescue centre of Apulia, in southern Italy, to assess the presence of Salmonella serovars that may represent a risk for operators involved in wildlife management. Sixty-nine tortoises, of which 36 were males and 33 were females, belonging to different species (Testudo hermanni hermanni, T. h. boettgeri, T. graeca, and T. marginata) were tested. All the turtles were adults (34 between 6 and 10 years of age and 35 more than 10 years of age). Salmonella was statistically detected more frequently in T. hermanni hermanni. No differences of the infection prevalence related to animal gender or age were found. Two different species, S. enterica and S. bongori, three S. enterica subspecies (enterica, diarizonae, salamae), and five different serovars (Hermannswerder, Abony, Ferruch, Richmond, Vancouver) within the group S. enterica subspecies enterica were identified. Two Salmonella types with different combinations were simultaneously found in specimens of T. h. hermanni. Most of the detected Salmonella types may represent a potential risk for operators in wildlife rescue centres. Monitoring of infections that may be transmitted to humans by animals in wildlife rescue centres is very important in order to protect the staff engaged in rehabilitation practices. Salmonella may be a natural inhabitant of the intestinal tract of turtles, rarely causing disease. This may represent a potential risk for humans, increasing the sanitary risk for operators in wildlife rescue centres. In this paper, the occurrence of non-typhoidal Salmonella among terrestrial turtles housed in a wildlife rescue centre in Southern Italy was investigated, in order to assess the serovars more frequently carried by turtles and identify those that may represent a risk for operators involved in wildlife management. Sixty-nine adult turtles (Testudo hermanni hermanni, T. h. boettgeri, T. graeca, and T. marginata) were tested. Detection and serotyping of Salmonella strains were performed according to ISO 6579-1 and ISO/TR 6579-3:2013, respectively. The distribution of Salmonella spp. was significantly higher in T. hermanni hermanni than in other species, independent of the age and gender of the animals. Two different Salmonella species, S. enterica and S. bongori, three S. enterica subspecies (enterica, diarizonae, salamae), and five different serovars (Hermannswerder, Abony, Ferruch, Richmond, Vancouver) within the group S. enterica subspecies enterica were identified. Different combinations of Salmonella types were simultaneously found in specimens of T. h. hermanni. Most of detected Salmonella types may represent a potential risk for public health. Adopting correct animal husbandry procedures and informing on potential sanitary risks may be useful for minimising the risk of transmission of Salmonella to workers involved in wildlife management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ill or injured wildlife species are been rescued, treated and or rehabilitated usually at the wildlife rescued centers, zoos clinic facilities and or wildlife conservation centers. The false gharial also known as Malayan gharial is a crocodile species native to Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo and Indonesia with extirpation in Singapore, Vietnam and Thailand. The false gharial is facing a threat of extinction due to habitat destruction and hunting Policies were implemented to conserve this species through the establishment of Ex-Situ Conservation centers, as such to maintain the health and welfare status of this species while in captivity, understanding its normal Haematology and serum biochemistry values becomes necessary to save the false gharial from extinction. The involvement of veterinary medicine in wildlife research has played an important role in understanding the health status of various wildlife species. Health status is a very important aspect of species conservation. However, it requires a widely employed knowledge of veterinary clinical pathology, as a diagnostic tool in diagnosing the various disease conditions of wildlife species. Notwithstanding, a gap exists in the literature about the clinical pathology of the false gharial, due to the lack of normal reference values for hematological and serum biochemical analysis. The present study investigated the normal blood profile of 10 healthy false gharials, from two different zoos, and wildlife conservation centers located in three different states of Peninsular Malaysia. Blood samples were collected from the lateral caudal vein and divided into a vacutainer without anticoagulant for biochemical analysis, and a lithium heparin vacutainer (containing sodium heparin) for hematological studies. The results of the study indicated that the false gharial has a smaller erythrocyte dimension compared to other crocodilian species. At the same time the study revealed that the false gharial in a natural captive pond showed more leukocytes than false gharial kept in zoos, hence, habitat and environmental factors significantly affect hematological values. The biochemistry values also showed differences between the false gharial in different environmental conditions. Total protein, albumin (Alb), globulin (Glob), and Alb: Glob ratio were higher in false gharials kept in wildlife conservation centers than in false gharials kept in zoos. The values obtained in this study provide baseline data of hematological and serum biochemical values of the false gharial for future research and routine clinical diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Macaques are regularly kept as pets in Vietnam, although the practice is illegal. This is substantially damaging to the individuals involved. In this article, we present the available data on the number of confiscations and releases of macaques throughout Vietnam over a five-year period (2015–2019). We examine this information alongside the data provided by Education for Nature Vietnam in a recent report on macaque possession cases. We also present insights from two key Animals Asia (a non-governmental organization) colleagues who work on the front lines of the macaque issue in Vietnam. In this article, we attempt to characterize the widespread trade in pet macaques in Vietnam. Data on confiscations as well as surrenders, releases, and individuals housed at rescue centers across Vietnam for 2015–2019 were opportunistically recorded. Data comparisons between Education for Nature Vietnam and three government-run wildlife rescue centers show that at least 1254 cases of macaque keeping occurred during the study period, including a minimum of 32 Assamese macaques (Macaca assamensis), 158 long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), 291 Northern pig-tailed macaques (Macaca leonina), 65 rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta), and 110 stump-tailed macaques (Macaca arctoides). A minimum of 423 individuals were confiscated, and at least 490 individual macaques were released. Three semi-structured interviews were conducted with two key Animals Asia (a non-governmental organization) colleagues and their insights are presented. Although we recognize that the data included are limited and can serve only as a baseline for the scale of the macaque pet trade in Vietnam, we believe that they support our concern that the problem is significant and must be addressed. We stress the need for organizations and authorities to work together to better understand the issue. The keeping of macaques as pets is the cause of serious welfare and conservation issues in Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Stress evaluation in wildlife is valuable tool for rehabilitation and injury prevention. This pilot study investigated categories of stress in rescued birds. We determined three categories of stressors (preliminary, primary and secondary) using clinical data of rescued birds from Adelaide, South Australia. It was discovered that birds are highly susceptible to impact injuries (e.g., flying into a building window) and vehicle-related injuries as preliminary stressors, which often result in hospitalisation of birds. Immobility and abnormal behaviour represented the most common primary stressor, while the most common secondary stressors included trauma and fracture. Furthermore, the most common outcome in clinics due to exposure of birds to these three stressor categories was euthanasia. Urbanisation exposes avian wildlife to an array of environmental stressors that result in clinical admission and hospitalisation. The aim of this pilot study was to conduct a retrospective analysis of clinical data and characterise this based on categories of stress experienced by avian wildlife patients. The results from this study indicated that impact injuries (n = 33, 25%) and vehicle-related injuries (n = 33, 25%) were the most common occurring preliminary stressors that resulted in the hospitalisation of avian wildlife. The most common outcome of avian patients that suffered from vehicle-related injuries was euthanasia (n = 15, 45%), as was avian patients that suffered from impact injuries (n = 16, 48%). Immobility (n = 105, 61%) and abnormal behaviour (n = 24, 14%) were the most commonly occurring primary stressors of avian patients. Finally, trauma (n = 51, 32%) and fractures (n = 44, 27%) were the most common occurring secondary stressors in avian patients. The most common outcome of all these stressors was euthanasia. This study provided further evidence towards the notion that human- and urbanisation-related stressors are the main causes of hospitalisation of avian wildlife, but also indicated that birds admitted as a result of human-related stressors are more likely to be euthanised than released. This study also provided a categorisation system for the stressors identified in avian wildlife patients (preliminary, primary and secondary) that may be used to monitor the stress categories of wildlife patients and gain a deeper understanding of the complex notion of stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Populations of the European hedgehog, Erinaceus europaeus, are declining in the UK. This small mammal is frequently admitted to rescue centres in the UK to be treated for a variety of illnesses or injuries. With many spending the winter in captivity, clear guidelines about how to look after hedgehogs during their hibernation would be very useful. We studied 35 hedgehogs over two winters to learn about their sleeping behaviour and how they change weight. We measured the total length of hibernation and the periods during hibernation when hedgehogs are more active (called spontaneous arousals). There were three main results. (1) The longer the hibernation, the more weight was lost. (2) Previous studies show that arousal is energetically expensive. Despite this, weight-loss was more related to the amount of time spent sleeping than to the number of times the hedgehog woke up, perhaps because they could easily feed each time they woke up. (3) Larger hedgehogs lost proportionally less weight per day, perhaps because they woke up and fed more often than did smaller hedgehogs. Behaviour by hibernating hedgehogs in captivity differs from that in the wild. Patterns revealed in this study are used to make some recommendations for guidelines that can be adapted for individual hedgehogs according to their size and behaviour during hibernation. The European hedgehog, Erinaceus europaeus, is frequently admitted to rescue centres in the UK. With many overwintering in captivity, there is cause to investigate hibernation patterns in order to inform and improve husbandry and monitoring protocols. Thirty-five hedgehogs were studied over two winters. Weight change during hibernation for the first winter was used to test for effects of disturbance on different aspects of hibernation, including total duration, frequency and duration of spontaneous arousals. There was no significant difference between the two winters for any of the four aspects studied. Significant positive correlations demonstrated that weight-loss increased with the duration of the hibernation period and with percent of nights spent asleep, but not with the number of arousal events. Thus, weight-loss appears more strongly associated with the proportion of time spent asleep than with the number of arousal events. This was surprising given the assumed energetic expense of repeated arousal and was potentially due to availability of food during arousals. In contrast with previous studies, larger hedgehogs lost less weight per day than did smaller hedgehogs. They also woke up more often (i.e., had more opportunities to feed), which may explain the unexpected pattern of weight-loss. Hibernatory behaviour in captivity differs from that in the wild, likely because of non-natural conditions in hutches and the immediate availability of food. This study provides a basis for further research into the monitoring and husbandry of hedgehogs such that it can be adapted for each individual according to pre-hibernation weight and behaviour during hibernation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This paper describes an easy-to-build box for the noninvasive collection of feces from wild birds or small wild animals (up to 1 kg), including a plastic storage box, a plastic tray, and a vinyl-coated hardware cloth. This method could minimize potential contamination and allow for cross-study comparisons on gut microbiomes for wildlife medicine, conservation, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Gut microbial communities play important roles in host health, modulating development, nutrient acquisition, immune and metabolic regulation, behavior and diseases. Wildlife microbiome studies and host–microbe interaction and exploration might be an important goal for evolutionary biology, conservation, and ecology. Therefore, collection and sampling methods must be considered before choosing a microbiome-based research plan. Since the fecal microbial community reflects the true gut community better than that of cloacal swab samples and only few nondestructive methods have been described, we propose an easy-to-build box for a noninvasive fecal collection method. The main components of the collection box include a plastic storage box, a plastic tray, a vinyl-coated hardware cloth, and a 10% bleach solution. In the plastic box, the tray is positioned under the raised grate, where the bird is placed, to reduce the risk of contamination of the fecal samples. This procedure could simplify handling and processing phases in wild birds or other animals. It might represent a cheap and useful method for research studies, wildlife rescue center activities, veterinary practices, and conservation practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Roe deer are among the most frequent wild animals admitted to rescue centers in Italy. Reasons for admission include trauma, predation, starvation, and imprinting, with the final aim of hospitalization being full recovery and release into the wild for all cases. An accurate triage procedure is vital for predicting the outcome, to avoid unnecessary time spent in captivity, and an excessive allocation of time and resources on animals with a minimal chance of recovery. Since lactacidosis is often associated with death in hospitalized animals, and has been associated with poor prognosis in humans and domestic animals, we proposed an evaluation of blood L-lactate using a rapid whole blood test in order to predict the outcome of hospitalized roe deer. A cut-off of 10.2 mmol/L was identified as the best, in order distinguish animals with minimal chance of surviving and release. For these animals, humane euthanasia should be considered as an option. Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) are among the most frequent patients of rescue centers in Italy. Three outcomes are possible: natural death, euthanasia, or treatment and release. The aim of the present study is to propose blood L-lactate concentration as a possible prognostic biomarker that may assist veterinarians in the decision-making process. Sixty-three roe deer, admitted to one rescue center in the period between July 2018 and July 2019, were sampled and divided into 4 groups according to their outcome: (1) spontaneous death (17 cases), (2) humanely euthanized (13 cases), (3) fully recovered and released (13 cases), and (4) euthanized being unsuitable for release (20 cases). In addition, blood samples from 14 hunted roe deer were analyzed as controls. Whole blood lactate concentrations were measured with a point of care lactate meter. Differences among groups were close to statistical significance (p = 0.51). A cut-off value of 10.2 mmol/L was identified: all the animals with higher values died or were humanely euthanized. The results suggest that roe deer with lactatemia higher than 10.2 mmol/L at admission, have a reduced prognosis for survival during the rehabilitation period, regardless of the reason for hospitalization and the injuries reported. Therefore, humane euthanasia should be considered for these animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]