New Method Aids Snow Leopard Conservation: Quick Stress Hormone Testing
A groundbreaking method has been developed to quickly and accurately measure stress hormones in snow leopards, aiding conservation efforts for these vulnerable cats. The new technique, created by researcher Christina R. K. Hardarson, uses simple, portable equipment and can be employed by researchers, rangers, and zookeepers alike.
Snow leopards, listed as 'vulnerable', face numerous threats including poaching, climate change, and habitat loss. Stress, which can impact their reproductive function, is another significant challenge. The new method addresses this by enabling rapid and accurate detection of stress hormones using immunochromatography test strips and a smartphone app.
The technique involves extracting hormones from snow leopard faeces using ethanol and simple hand shaking. This process eliminates the need for bulky equipment or special expertise. The hormone analyzed is not species-specific, making the method applicable to various animals. However, further testing is needed to ensure its reliability across different species.
The new method, confirmed accurate through comparison with conventional lab methods on captive snow leopard samples, is particularly valuable given the challenging mountainous regions where snow leopards reside. It offers a quick and easy way to assess stress status, providing crucial data for conservation strategies and improving the welfare of these magnificent cats.
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