-
Purchase
of Aloka 500V ultrasound machine and 5 MHz convex array probe
(or new probe for current Aloka 210 machine) to facilitate monitoring
of rhinos for impending ovulation and planned introductions.
Ultrasound will prove to be a useful tool to assist in timed-breeding,
pregnancy detection, and for documentation of ovulation, luteal
function and pathology.
-
Establish
in-house serum progesterone assay capability to facilitate timely
decisions regarding stage of female estrous cycle.
-
Establish
phone, Fax and e-mail service for staff at Sungai Dusun to improve
work and communication efficiency.
-
Provide
additional training for Dr. Aidi Mohamad in the techniques and
application of ultrasonography in the rhinoceros via organization
of an internship for Aidi at Fossil Rim.
-
Prioritize
female breeding schedule according to the following estimate
of highest to lowest fertility:
Minah
Mas
Merah
Rima
Seputeh
Panjang
-
Improve
condition score of Minah by evaluation of nutritional program
at Sungai Dusun under the direction of Dr. Ellen Dierenfeld.
-
Evaluate
male reproductive function via vaginal sperm recovery from a
post-copulatory female (Roth et. al., 2001) to evaluate semen
for motility, concentration and morphology. Evaluate alternative
semen collection techniques in Sumatran rhinos.
-
Design,
plan and implement Sumatran Rhino Workshop for the simulation,
production and dissemination of basic knowledge on the biology
and conservation of Sumatran rhinos.
-
Future
development of advanced reproductive techniques to assist captive
breeding efforts. Techniques need to be developed for male collection,
semen extension and standard evaluation protocols, female insemination,
and semen cryopreservation.
-
Annual
visit by Radcliffe/Citino/Roth rhino reproductive health team.
-
Make improvements to Sungai Dusun rhino conservation barn to
facilitate these recommendations. The rhino barn would benefit
from having a dry room (air-conditioned) for fruit and grain
storage to preclude dangerous fungal growth of pelleted feed.
In addition, a work area could be built into this room providing
a sink and counter for laboratory use needed for medical and
research procedures.
