Do-it-yourself remote chemical immobilization equipment

Abstract

A do-it-yourself method for the assembly of remote chemical immobilization equipment is described. The dart syringes are basically made up of components from conventional 2,5 ml capacity disposable plastic syringes. A blow-pipe made of metal, plastic or glass with suitable dimensions is used as a propelling apparatus for the dart syringe. The accuracy obtain- ed over 5 m by practically all people, novices included, makes this technique ideally suited for all caged animals and animals with limited escape range. Further merits accredited to this system were inexpensiveness, wide scope for improvization, simple construction, easy to use, reliability and consistency in operation, gentle impact and minimal tissue damage. Minimal disturbance was invariably caused to the subject animals.