Methods for the Effective Care and Rehabilitation of Captive Lumholtz’s Tree-kangaroos
Class Year
2015
Document Type
Student Research Paper
Date of Creation
Spring 2014
Department 1
Center for Global Education
Abstract
Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo, Dendrolagus lumholtzi, is one of only two kangaroo species endemic to Australia’s rainforests. However, studies concerning the species are limited, and public knowledge of the species is close to non-existent (Tisdell & Wilson, 2003). Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo is slowly making its way into Australia’s zoos and into the public eye, but lack of formally presented information pertaining to its care has made maintenance of captive populations difficult. With an increasing number of Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos coming into care due to dog attacks and motor vehicle accidents, the need for formalized husbandry information is becoming ever greater (Tree-Kangaroo and Mammal Group, 2000). This study recorded the care methods used by the world’s only tree-kangaroo rehabilitation organization, Tree Roo Rescue and Conservation Centre Ltd. Through daily observations of routine procedures and rehabilitation practices, this study was able to effectively describe current methods for housing, feeding, and management of Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos. In addition, comparisons against the most recent care manual highlight key differences in care between tree-kangaroo species. While more research is needed, especially pertaining to nutritional requirements, presentation of these methods is the first step in the creation of a husbandry manual tailored to the requirements of Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo.
Copyright Note
This is the author's version of the work. This publication appears in Gettysburg College's institutional repository by permission of the copyright owner for personal use, not for redistribution.
Recommended Citation
Lessiak, Aden E., "Methods for the Effective Care and Rehabilitation of Captive Lumholtz’s Tree-kangaroos" (2014). Student Publications. 240.
https://cupola.gettysburg.edu/student_scholarship/240
Required Publisher's Statement
Original version is available from SIT Graduate Institute - Study Abroad Program at: http://digitalcollections.sit.edu/isp_collection/1753/
Comments
This paper was written during the author's study abroad experience as part of the SIT Graduate Institute - Study Abroad Program. It is part of the Independent Study Project Collection.