Large animal darting

[matt_hooks]

I've put a post up in the training section but I'd like some advice specifically from vets and those who might get to use darting and live capture equipment more regularly so thought I'd post here.

I've just started working at a zoo that has several cat 1 species in its collection. I will be joining the firearms team and am looking at updating the live capture capabilities, both for escape and for veterinary inspections etc. What are people recommending in terms of live capture/darting equipment? At the moment they use a pistol, which seems a little inadequate given the size of the animals and the potential ranges required (happy to be told I'm wrong on that). I'm an experienced shooter, but have limited experience with dart guns and darting. I did a training course years ago but can't remember any of it and ended up never using it so I'm basically a beginner so any and all advice gratefully received.

 

[finnbear270]

Jelen would be a first call for me.

 

[bowji john]

Hi Matt

I used to be Group Safety Adviser to Longleat

We put in similar training for their team

I can't remember who provided the training but i do know that

1. It will be the zoo's responsibility to provide you with suitable training

2. All of these parks and zoos in the UK are happy to share info - so a quick email to Longleat's Wild life Head of Section should give you the info you seek

 

[monarman]

Get in touch with jelen/pws/animal capture uk.... they are running a course at the end of the month!!....it has been updated from previous courses.
They will teach and advise you on anything you need to know

 

[Buchan]

wildpharm is an excellent resource plus Jonathan Cracknells book

 

[Hell Toupee]

If you have a choice of dart gun I would strongly advise getting a CO2 based one rather than anything that uses .22 blanks. The CO2 ones are plenty powerful enough for any species, but can also be dialled back much more then the blank powered guns. I have fist hand experience of smaller animals being killed by what is essentially a low velocity .50 round if the blank guns are used at close ranges.

Have a look at the Dan Inject catalogue (I think you can access it online).

(I appreciate this may be a little late!)