The Use of Drugs in Conservation

Abstract

For successful game management and research, immobilising drugs, which make it possible to handle even rhinos and elephants, are essential. The latest drugs, in the discovery and use of which Dr. Harthoorn, of the University College in Nairobi, has played a leading part, make it possible to drug an animal sufficiently for it to be docile but at the same time able to get to its feet and walk unaided. Simple and safe, they have proved their value, for example, in the removal of over 100 square-lipped rhino from Natal without a single casualty due to drug effects.