Effects of gavage feeding and Extended Post-operative Care on Sea Ducks after Implantation of Satellite Transmitters

Project Number: 128

Year Funded: 2010

Lead Institution(s): Avian Specialty Veterinary Services

Project Lead: Scott Ford

Email:

Collaborator(s): Matt Perry (USGS), Alicia Berlin (USGS), Glenn Olsen (USGS)

Location: North America

Focal Species: Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis), Black Scoter (Melanitta americana)

Project Description: Our objective has been to investigate methods for reducing stress and improving the condition of wild-caught long-tailed ducks (LTDU) and black scoters (BLSC) undergoing implantation of intracoelomic platform transmitting terminals (PTTs). LTDU and BLSC were studied in conjunction with other satellite transmitter projects in Nantucket (November, 2009) and Cape Cod, MA (March, 2010) and in the Bay of Chaleur, New Brunswick (May, 2010). General methodology involved collection of serum and fecal corticosterone samples and blood samples for complete blood counts (CBC) to document physiological effects of stress. Body mass and feather condition were also tracked. Treatments included subcutaneous fluid administration, tube-feeding an elemental diet, keeping the ducks in net-bottomed kennels, and providing opportunities to bathe in water for short periods of time.