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Genetic distances among five of the most important Italian native sheep breeds were estimated by using gene frequencies of four blood group and seven blood protein loci and by three different computing methods. The values of the three distance matrices were highly correlated. Genetic distances were found within the range values reported in the literature for local breeds. Shorter distances fitted the historical evidence of migrations.

The long-acting neuroleptics perphenazine enanthate and pipothiazine palmitate were found to be effective for the long-term tranquilization of newly-captured and captive impala (Aepyceros melampus). Perphenazine enanthate (1.5 to 5.7 mg kg-1) produced a favourable state of tranquilization with a maximum effect lasting up to 7 d. Pipothiazine palmitate (4.5 mg kg-1) produced tranquilization lasting 16 d. The animals accepted humans inside their pens, at a distance of 0.5 to 4 m, without showing any excitement. No untoward side-effects were observed.

Twenty ostrich chicks (Struthio camelus) up to 8 weeks of age were fed isocaloric diets containing protein levels of 14%, 16%, 18% and 20%. The highest mean body weight gain was obtained from feeding the 20% protein diet; however, this result was not significantly different at the 0.05 level of probability. Feed conversion favoured the 18% protein group. During the seventh and eighth week of the experimental period some chicks developed leg deformities. Clinical signs, radiological findings and response to calcium supplementation suggested an insufficient amount of calcium in the experimental diets.