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UP researchers discover optimum way to monitor blood oxygen levels in immobilised rhino, boosting efforts to combat poaching

New research by scientists at the University of Pretoria (UP) has shown that pulse oximeters, originally designed for humans, can be used more effectively to monitor the blood oxygen levels of rhinoceroses who are under anaesthesia and immobilised – by attaching them at an unusual site: the rhino’s ‘third eyelid’.

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How to attach a pulse oximeter to a rhino's third eyelid

UP researchers have been working on adapting the use of existing technology and testing it in the field to find an appropriate solution to mitigate complications arising from low oxygen levels during procedures like immobilisation. This new research improves our ability to provide care and ensure the well-being of rhinos in the field.

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Research shows there are more warm-bodied sharks than previously thought

New research arising from a collaboration between scientists at the University of Pretoria (UP) and Trinity College Dublin has shown there are likely more warm-bodied sharks out there than previously thought.

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UP-led study suggests declining energy efficiency of heart imposes upper limit on body size

A groundbreaking study undertaken by researchers from the University of Pretoria’s (UP) Faculty of Veterinary Science has revealed that the heart operates with declining energy efficiency as body size increases among mammals.

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New study welfare and survival of Africa's arid mammals under threat of climate change

Dr Ned Snelling, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Anatomy and Physiology and Prof Leith Meyer, Director of the Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, both from the Faculty of Veterinary Science have just published a new study on the welfare and survival of Africa’s arid-dwelling mammals under the threat of climate change.

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New study finds SA's springhare is a better hopper than Australian Kangaroos

While kangaroos are distinguished for their well-developed hindlimbs which they use to hop across the Australian outback, it seems South Africa has its own unusual hopper – the springhare.