COMPARISON OF 2 METHODS FOR THE CAPTURE OF BOMA-CONFINED IMPALA

Two methods of catching boma-confined impala Aepyceros melampus for we ighing and collection of blood samples are described and compared in t erms of effects on body mass and physiological responses of the animal s to the procedures involved. Two trials were carried out: one in whic h the animals were caught by being chased into a net (Method 1) and th e other in which capture was achieved using a drop-net system (Method 2). Method 1 resulted in significantly increased concentrations of the blood variables lactate, glucose, cortisol, osmolality and haematocri t. Method 2 produced significantly elevated levels of lactate, cortiso l and osmolality. Concentrations of the variables measured were lower for the group caught by Method 2 than for those caught by Method 1, an d in most cases this difference was significant (p < 0,05). It is sugg ested that Method 2 can be regarded as the more favourable technique i n view of the smaller increase in blood variables measured, and a shor ter capture and handling time for each capture session.