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On 25th October
Colobus Trust darted and captured for captive care an adult female
colobus. It had been reported as having tremors and, unusual for a
colobus, it stayed close to the ground, not climbing into the canopy.
Upon closer examination at the Trust, it was found to have abrasions in
the hands and feet. It was definite they were from friction of some
kind rather than burns caused by grasping an electrical wire. Once the
anaesthetic wore off and she started to move around, it was also
realised that she had locomotion and balance problems.
No definite diagnosis was made
but it appeared to be neurological perhaps from a bacterial infection or
parasitic infestation of the brain. It stayed under captive care for
five days before being released. She was treated with antibiotics,
steroids and Vitamin B therapy. By the day of release, the tremors had
reduced completely although they were not completely gone. She was
monitored for five days after release, during which time she was seen to
climb higher and move further than before receiving medical attention.
As for all Colobus, treatment in
captivity is difficult due to their specialised dietary requirements.
The Colobus was given at least seven species of wild foods, five times a
day to help maintain appropriate digestive tract flora and fauna. She
was released as soon as possible to minimise side effects from captive
diets.
Although no explanation for the
symptoms was found, the antibiotics, steroids,
vitamin B and rest improved her condition.
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| Physical
examination |
Abrasions on
hand |
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