Picture of Bird Full Life History Info: H�P://Nzbirdsonline.Org.Nz/Species/Li�Le-Penguin

Picture Australasian gannet (Morus serrator) of bird www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/australasian-gannet

Introducon Ecology and life history The Australasian gannet is one of only three gannet species in Normal adult weight range: 2.16-2.40 kg the world. Dense breeding colonies can be found on the cliﬀs Moult: Gannets moult their feathers gradually and beaches of headlands on the NZ mainland and on coastal over 10-14 months. islands, as well as along the south-east coast of Australia. Breeding: August to May Majority (>85%) of the breeding populaon is found in New Egg laying between August to January Zealand. Fledglings from NZ will oen migrate to Australia and Monogamous then return to their NZ home colony aer 4-7 years to breed. Incubaon 43-53 days. Gannets are mostly coastal birds and forage on the connental Age at Fledging 91-119 days shelf. They are plunge divers and can hit the water at speeds up Age at ﬁrst breeding 4-7 years. to 145km/h, therefore they do not have external nostrils. Lifespan: greater than 25 years. Instead they breath through gaps in the corner of their bills. Diet: Piscivorous

CAPTURE AND HANDLING WARNING – Gannets have very sharp and serrated bill edges and a strong neck that can cause severe injuries to humans. It is ESSENTIAL to wear eye-protecon and addional hand protecon in the form of rubber welding gloves. Two people are required for procedures on gannets: one to restrain and one to perform the procedure (e.g. feeding)

Personal protecve equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE must be worn when capturing and handling oiled wildlife to prevent exposure to oil (disposable nitrile gloves, safety glasses/goggles, protecon for clothing e.g. Tyvec suit). Capture Handling Consider the safety of both humans and birds. Use a towel to restrain wings (prevents Oiled birds may sll have the ability to fly damage to feathers and wing bones) and depending on the amount and locaon of oil restrain strong feet. Wear normal examinaon on the body. Long-handled fishing nets are gloves if not oiled. useful for capture. If the bird is on land and Gannets do not have nostrils and breath unable to fly then towels are useful for through their mouth so it is extremely capture by throwing it over the bird then important not to hold their mouth closed. gathering it up ensuring the wings are Instead, their head can be restrained with restrained in the towel and the head is fingers under the lower jaw and thumb covered. If the bird is on land then ensure gripping on top of the head (not the upper bill) that someone is standing between the bird or by holding the back of the head in the palm and the water to prevent them from entering and gripping the corners of the jaw with the it. Most birds will defecate aer being caught. fingers on one side and thumb on the other.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & shags will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness.

Transport box: Box made of plasc (NOT wood) as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and the box reused. Top-loading corflute transport boxes allow for easier access to the bird, however front-loading PetPaks can also be used. Only ONE bird per box. Flooring: Correct flooring in the transport box is important. It should (i) be so and non-abrasive in order to prevent development of bumblefoot during transport, (ii) be non-slip so that the bird can steady itself and (iii) prevent build up of faecal maer that can cause urate burns. Blue-tube rubber mang covered with blue inconnence pads or a suspended neng floor are the best opons. Folded newspaper is inappropriate as it becomes too slippery when contaminated by faeces. Shredded paper, straw, hay and seagrass should be avoided as it increases the risk of Aspergillosis

Vehicle transport: van or ute, with canopy and a separate air space from people to prevent inhalaon of oil fumes. Ideally temperature controlled (heang on cold days, cooling on hot days). Australasian gannet HUSBANDRY REQUIREMENTS Housing Keep indoors and temperature controlled at 25-27°C because oiled animals cannot thermoregulate. pre-cleaning The area must be well venlated to disperse the oil fumes. (oiled) Enclosure: • Temperature controlled rooms. • If room is very large then build temporary aviaries with a roof. Ensure walls of temporary enclosure are made of materials that can easily be cleaned of oil such as plasc or metal, not wood. Examples of suitable walls include temporary metal fencing with the walls and roof lined with shade cloth to prevent damage to feathers. Ensure metal fencing is not galvanised with zinc or lead as this could lead to heavy metal poisoning if the birds chew on the fence. • Gannets are gregarious species and therefore mulple birds can be housed together. Do not overcrowd. Enclosures should be large enough to allow birds to stretch their wings. Minimum recommended dimensions are 3m2 of floor space per bird. Height of enclosure 2.5m. • Reduce visibility of humans and noise to minimise stress. Flooring • Correct flooring is very important to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot. The best opon is fine (0.5cm) non-knoed coon neng using PVC pipe as a frame and suspended at least 15cm above floor. • Alternavely blue tube mang can be used (available at hardware stores). • Avoid oil coming into contact with a concrete floor as it is very difficult to clean. Line floor with heavy duty plasc sheets (e.g. pond liner or large garbage bags) then place neng or tube mang on top. Housing Enclosure post-cleaning Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. Large enough to allow them to stretch (no oil) their wings. Minimum recommended dimensions are 3m2 of floor space per bird. Height of enclosure 2.5m. Flooring Blue tube mang on floor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube flooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot. Gregarious species Gannets roost on land in groups and should be housed together in an aviary, but ensure that it is 2 not overcrowded and watch for bullying. Allow for floor space of 3m per bird. Perches Gannets require perches. Perches made of PVC tubing covered in blue tube mang are easy to make and clean. Diameter of piping should be appropriate for the size of their feet. Clean perches daily. Pool • Seabirds in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable in-aviary pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or children’s swimming pool or shell. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Water must be deep enough to allow birds to swim on surface without feet touching the boom. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • Heat water during winter months if ambient air temperature is below ~10-15°C. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface. Transport As per handling instrucons. Wear safety glasses. within If bird is oiled then appropriate PPE must be worn to prevent oil exposure. Use large towels for facility restraint and dispose if contaminated with oil. Idenficaon Leg band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release). Visually check leg band each day as leg bands oen get stuck at the top of the leg under the plumage. Australasian gannet NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Dosing If large numbers of birds require dosing then calculate dose based on the weight of the heaviest bird. Group animals into age and/or size class for dosing calculaons. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 75-80ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 50-60ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated, severely dehydrated or unable to hold head up: Give oral electrolyte fluids at inial stabilisaon rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon. Food Fish slurry: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add just enough isotonic preparaon (0.9% NaCl) fluid into blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Discard aer 24 hours in the refrigerator. Do not let it sit at room temperature on bench. Whole fish: Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride) to recondion salt gland: Only required if birds have been housed long- term in freshwater. Start at least 2 week before release. Give orally either as 3% saline soluon at maintenance fluid rates or 100mg/kg BW PO once daily. Gradually increase dose over four days: Day 1 give ¼ dose, Day 2 give ½ dose, Day give ¾ dose, Day 4 give full dose, then connue at full dose.

Delivery & Heat fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. device Large volumes of fluid and fish slurry are easier to deliver with a large, plasc, lamb stomach tube 16” in length and a 60ml catheter-p syringe. Force feed (FF) whole salmon head first. Unlike other birds, it is unsafe for the handler to let go of the head to allow the gannet to swallow. Keep a firm hold of the head at all mes. To assist with swallowing, the person feeding can gently massage the fish down the oesophagus. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and can cause dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: The medial metatarsal vein is the easiest to access. Brachial vein can also be used.

Common Medicaons Washing An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. Requirements for washing are very specific, such as See dose rate on page 1. water temperature, water soness and brand of detergent. Refer to the “Washing” factsheet for detailed Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an open informaon. or infected wound or known bacterial infecon and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the animal. Waterproofing To regain waterproofing, birds must be given access to a Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID pool with haulouts so that they can preen and dry off Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID between swims. Degree of waterproofing should be Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful assessed using the Waterproofing Assessment sheets condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if (hyperlink). prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the animal. Dose rates: Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) Release criteria 0.5-1 mg/kg BID Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) following criteria: 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be given 1. Fully waterproof aer 6 hours swim test (refer to twice a day “Waterproofing” guidelines).

Acvated charcoal: not recommended 2. Weight within normal range (on page 1) AND Body Condion Score at least 3/5 using pectoral Problems associated with capvity muscle scoring system: ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon. Isolate any sick birds from the group.

2. Pressure sores: keel lesions, hock lesions or pododermas (bumblefoot) 3. PCV is 35-55% and TP is 30-55 g/L Best prevented with good husbandry and appropriate 4. UA <600 IU/dl floor coverings. Depending on severity the bird may 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care veterinarian and bandaging. Other things to consider: • 3. Traumac injuries Is their release habitat free from oil? • Gannets can be released on land near the shoreline Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in capvity due to excessive force used during handling or or at their colony site. issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or flippers Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Frankfurt, G. Finlayson. can get stuck). Thanks to the veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for 4. Feather damage informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a variety of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or enclosure. preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, Birds cannot be released if feather damage effects completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for a any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on how person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly to induce moult. make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy of the informaon provided. Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase. White-faced heron (Egrea novaehollandiae), Picture Herons White heron (Ardea modesta) Reef heron (Egrea sacra) of bird www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz

Introducon Ecology and life history

There are no endemic species of heron in New Zealand and Normal adult weight range: most species are actually recently self-introduced from White-faced heron 550g Australia or Asia. The species most likely to be effected by a White heron 700-1200g marine oil spill are the white-faced heron (Egrea Reef heron 400g novaehollandiae), white heron (Ardea modesta) and reef Breeding: heron (Egrea sacra) due to their presence in harbours, rocky For species informaon refer to these websites: shores and mudflats. The white-faced heron is the most www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz common species. In New Zealand, the white heron (also hp://www.teara.govt.nz/en/herons/page-1 known as the great egret) is naonally crical with only hp://www.teara.govt.nz/en/herons/page-2 150-200 birds and the reef heron is naonally endangered Diet: Mainly fish, but also consume crustaceans, with 300-500 birds. However, both species are abundant shellfish, insects and frogs. throughout their range in Asia and Australia. CAPTURE AND HANDLING WARNING – Eye-protecon is essenal during capture and handling or herons because they have a very quick neck reflex and sharp, pointed bill and will lunge at the eyes in defense causing severe injury or blinding to humans

Personal protecve equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE must be worn when capturing and handling oiled wildlife to prevent exposure to oil (disposable nitrile gloves, safety glasses/goggles, protecon for clothing e.g. Tyvec suit). Old towels or blue inconnence pads are useful to handle oiled birds as they can be discarded once soiled. Capture Handling Consider the safety of both humans and Always wear eye-protecon when handling herons. Wear normal birds. Oiled birds may sll have the ability examinaon gloves if not oiled. First restrain the head, then the wings to fly depending on the amount and by tucking them under an arm or with a towel and lastly restrain legs. locaon of oil on the body. Large long- To restrain the head, grip the bill at the handled fishing nets are useful for halfway point making sure not to cover the capture but bill and leg fractures can nares. DO NOT hold at the p of the bill as it occur. Throw a towel over the bird and can fracture. Their legs are long and thin and gather it up ensuring the head is held and are easily broken with inappropriate handling. covered and the wings and legs are Hold legs at the top of each biotarsus and restrained. Most birds will defecate aer place a finger between each leg or hold the being caught. feet together and fold legs up against the body. Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & shags will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness.

Transport box: Box made of plasc (NOT wood) as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and the box reused. Best opon is a large, top-loading corﬂute transport box to enable easier and safer removal of heron from the box. Only ONE bird per box.

Flooring: Correct ﬂooring in the transport box is important. It should (i) be so and non-abrasive in order to prevent development of bumblefoot during transport, (ii) be non-slip so that the bird can steady itself and (iii) prevent build up of faecal maer that can cause urate burns. Blue-tube rubber mang covered with blue inconnence pads or a suspended neng ﬂoor are the best opons. Folded newspaper is inappropriate as it becomes too slippery when contaminated by faeces. Shredded paper, straw, hay and seagrass should be avoided as it increases the risk of Aspergillosis.

NOTE: grey tube ﬂooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot. Solitary species Herons are generally solitary so keep only one bird in each enclosure. Perches/Shelter White-headed and white herons perch and roost high up in trees. Once clean of oil, herons can be given tree branches for shelter and to perch on. Branches should be changed every 2-3 days. Reef herons nest in dark places low to the ground, so provide hides made of plasc (upturned plasc box with semi-circle cut out and protect the sharp edge of doorway with a hose-pipe split lengthways and taped in place.)

Pool Birds in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable in-aviary pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or children’s swimming pool or shell. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Herons are waders and therefore only require water deep enough to stand in and not swim. • Use freshwater in the pool. • Heat pool qater during winter months if ambient air temperature is <10-15°C. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface. Transport As per handling instrucons. Wear safety glasses. within facility If bird is oiled then appropriate PPE must be worn to prevent oil exposure. Use large towels for restraint and dispose if contaminated with oil. Idenficaon Leg band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Australasian gannet NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 75ml/kg body weight /day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 50ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated and dehydrated: Give oral electrolyte fluids at inial stabilisaon rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon. Food Fish slurry with insecvore mix: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add preparaon just enough isotonic (0.9% NaCl) fluid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Add a few scoops of insecvore mix. Note that the amount of insecvore mix to add may need to be adjusted based on the bird’s weight gain or loss. Discard aer 24hours in the refrigerator. Whole fish: Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. To cut large whole salmon into pieces, cut on an angle (pictured). Addional food types: Herons can also be fed beef mince, and mealworms for some variety. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis.

Note: Salt supplementaon not (sodium chloride) not required for herons.

Delivery & Heat fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. Large volumes of fluid and fish slurry are easier to deliver with a device large, plasc, lamb stomach tube 16” in length and a 60ml catheter-p syringe. Force feed (FF) whole salmon head first. Unlike other birds, it is unsafe for the handler to let go of the head to allow the heron to swallow. Keep a firm hold of the head at all mes. To assist with swallowing, the person feeding can gently massage the fish down the oesophagus. Some birds may learn to self-feed from a shallow bowl or tray. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and can cause dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: The medial metatarsal vein is the easiest to access. Brachial vein can also be used.

Common Medicaons Washing Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble Requirements for washing are very specific. Refer to to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. the “Washing” factsheet for detailed informaon. Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. See dose rate on page 1. Waterproofing Herons are wading birds and do not have fully Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an open waterproof feathers like diving birds. Their feathers are or infected wound or known bacterial infecon and parally "weable”. Therefore the usual waterproofing should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer parameters cannot be used for assessment nor can the examinaon of the animal. six-hour swim test. Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID Bridey – how do you assess waterproofing in waders? Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID

Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the Release criteria animal. Dose rates: Birds should only be released if they fulﬁll ALL the Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) following criteria: 0.5-1 mg/kg BID 1. Fully waterproof aer 6 hours swim test (refer to Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) “Waterprooﬁng” guidelines). 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be given 2. Weight within normal range (on page 1) twice a day AND Body Condion Score at least 3/5 using pectoral muscle scoring system: Acvated charcoal: not recommended

Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon

1. Aspergillosis A serious, life-threatening respiratory fungal infecon. Clinical signs include noisy or difficulty breathing. Treatment involves daily nebulisaon with a specific anfungal agent only available through a veterinarian. 3. PCV is 35-55% and TP is 30-55 g/L 2. Pressure sores: keel lesions, hock lesions or 4. UA <600 IU/dl pododermas (bumblefoot) 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by Best prevented with good husbandry and appropriate veterinarian floor coverings. Depending on severity the bird may require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care Other things to consider: and bandaging. • Is their release habitat free from oil?

• 3. Traumac injuries Herons can be released on land near the shoreline.

Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in capvity due to excessive force used during handling or Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Frankfurter, G. Finlayson. Thanks to the veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or flippers Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. can get stuck). Disclaimer : This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a variety of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its 4. Feather damage preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or enclosure. completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving Birds cannot be released if feather damage effects any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for a person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on how make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy of the informaon provided. to induce moult. Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase. Large Pelagic seabirds: Picture Albatrosses, Mollymawks & Giant Petrels of bird For idenficaon and species info refer to: www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz

Introducon Ecology and life history New Zealand has the highest diversity of Normal adult weight range: Adult Buller’s mollymawks can weigh as albatrosses and mollymawks with 12 lile as 2.5kg while the Southern Royal Albatross can weigh up to species that breed on NZ's sub-antarcc 10kg. Due to the variability of normal weight ranges between species islands and 7 endemic species. It is unlikely and within species it is recommended to calculate doses based on that large numbers of these birds would be individual body weights. eﬀected during a single oil spill event Moult: Gradual, mostly during their non-breeding year but connues unless it occurs near a breeding colony. into breeding. Biennial wing moult - outer primaries one year, inner Although albatrosses are in the group primaries the next year. commonly called "tubenoses", they diﬀer Breeding: All albatross species and the grey-headed mollymawk from other tubenose families in that their produce a single young every two years. Incubang and rearing a chick tube-shaped nostrils are separated and takes 1 year and then take one year to recover. located on either side of the bill. All birds The other mollymawk species and the two giant petrel species breed in the order Procellariformes (including once a year, usually from August to May. petrels and shearwaters) have three front- Lifespan: Long-lived facing toes with webbing. Diet: Water surface scavengers

Personal protecve equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE must be worn when capturing and handling oiled wildlife to prevent exposure to oil (disposable nitrile gloves, safety glasses/goggles, protecon for clothing e.g. Tyvec suit). Old towels or blue inconnence pads are useful to handle oiled birds as they can be discarded once soiled. Capture Handling Consider the safety of both humans and birds. Wear thick protecve gloves (eg. Gardwell® Garden Masonary These large birds require a run up and winds of at gloves from Bunnings) to protect hands from sharp edges of bill. least 20km/h in order to take off and therefore These birds are in the group called "tubenoses". They have when an oiled bird is stranded on land they are external nostrils on the top surface of the bill and therefore they relavely easy to approach and capture. Ensure can breathe when their bill is closed. that someone is standing between the bird and Their bill can be restrained by grasping the water to prevent them from entering it. Birds above with fingers and below with the on land can be captured by hand using a large thumb, ensuring that the nostrils are not towel to restrain the bird's wings and cover the covered (pictured). Use a large towel to head or using a long-handled fishing net. If the restrain wings and legs and tuck the bird is sing on water use a large long-handled body under the arm while holding the net. This group of birds will oen regurgitate bill in the other hand. Handling for stomach oil as a defense mechanism. Take care feeding is best done with two people - not to get oil on feathers. one to restrain and one to feed.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. Herons, gannets & cormorants will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness. facility Transport box: made of plasc (NOT wood) as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and the box reused. Best opon is an PetPak carrier: Model PP90, XXXXXL, 77(W) x 131(L) x 85(H) cm ONE bird per box Flooring: Correct ﬂooring in the transport box is important. It should (i) be so and non-abrasive in order to prevent development of bumblefoot during transport, (ii) be non-slip so that the bird can steady itself and (iii) prevent build up of faecal maer that can cause urate burns. Blue-tube rubber mang covered with blue inconnence pads or a suspended neng ﬂoor are the best opons. Folded newspaper is inappropriate as it becomes too slippery when contaminated by faeces. Shredded paper, straw, hay and seagrass should be avoided as it increases the risk of Aspergillosis

(oiled) Enclosure: • Keep in temperature controlled rooms. • Enclosures should be large enough to allow birds to stretch their wings. Minimum recommended dimensions are 6 (length) x 3 (width) x 2 (height) meters. • If room is very large then build temporary aviaries with a roof. Ensure walls of temporary enclosure are made of materials that can easily be cleaned of oil such as plasc or metal, not wood. Examples of suitable walls include temporary metal fencing with walls and roof lined with shade cloth to prevent damage to feathers. Ensure metal fencing is not galvanised with zinc or lead as this could lead to heavy metal poisoning if the birds chew on the fence. • Only ONE bird per room/aviary as they can be very aggressive toward each other. • Reduce visibility of humans and noise to minimise stress.

Flooring • Best opon is fine (0.5cm) non-knoed coon neng using PVC pipe as a frame and suspended at least 15cm above floor. • Alternavely blue tube mang can be used (available at hardware stores) • Correct flooring is very important to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot. • Avoid oil coming into contact with a concrete floor as it is very difficult to clean. Line floor with heavy duty plasc sheets (e.g. pond liner or large garbage bags) then place neng or tube mang on top.

Housing Enclosure: post-cleaning • Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. Large enough to allow them to stretch their wings. Minimum recommended dimensions are 6 (length) x 3 (width) x 2m (height). (no oil) Flooring • Blue tube mang on ﬂoor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube ﬂooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot.

Burrows • Hides are not necessary as they do not normally burrow. Solitary • Albatrossess and mollymawks are generally solitary birds and only come together during the breeding season. Therefore they are best housed separately. Pool • Seabirds in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or plasc (non-inflatable) child’s pool. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • No need to heat pool water. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required.

Transport As per handling instrucons. within facility If bird is oiled then appropriate PPE must be worn to prevent oil exposure. Use large towels for restraint and dispose if contaminated with oil. Cover head to reduce visual smuli and stress. Idenficaon Leg band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Large pelagic seabirds NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. FOOT PROTECTION ON ARRIVAL: Large pelagic seabirds are parcularly vulnerable to pressure sores on their feet because they normally rest on water rather than land. The weight of their heavy body when dry-docked can cause pressure sores to develop within a few hours. To prevent bumblefoot, bandage both feet on arrival: 1st layer non- adherent gauze dressing on plantar surface, 2nd layer 3-5mm thick foam sheeng cut to shape of foot on plantar surface, 3rd layer soban, 4th layer vet wrap. Change bandages every 2-3 days depending on degree of soiling. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 80-100ml/kg BW/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 60-70ml/kg BW/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type Large pelagic seabirds are highly suscepble to salt gland atrophy and hyponatremia. For long term maintenance give 3% saline soluon (30g/L) OR isotonic fluids WITH salt supplements Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated and dehydrated: Give oral electrolyte fluids at ‘inial stabilisaon’ rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon or large salmon cut into pieces. Food Fish slurry: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add just enough isotonic preparaon (0.9% NaCl) fluid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Discard aer 24 in the refrigerator. Whole fish: : Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride): 3% saline soluon PO (see fluid type and rates) OR 100mg/kg BW SID PO Delivery & Warm fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. Large volumes of fluid and fish slurry are easier to deliver with a device large, plasc, lamb stomach tube 16” in length (pictured) and 60ml catheter-p syringe. Force feed (FF) whole fish head first. Some birds will learn to feed from shallow bowls or take fish by hand. Others will need the head restrained and bill opened to place fish into the back of the mouth. Once the fish is far enough to the back of the throat the bird should swallow it down – release the head at this stage to allow the animal to swallow. Feeding is most safely done with two people. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and causes dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: The medial metatarsal vein is the easiest to access. Brachial vein can also be used.

Common Medicaons Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis 1. Aspergillosis (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly A serious, life-threatening respiratory fungal infecon. recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble Clinical signs include noisy or diﬃculty breathing. to this life-threatening disease when in capvity.

Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. 2. Pressure sores: Keel lesions, Hock lesions or See dose rate on page 1. Pododermas (bumblefoot) Large pelagic seabirds are parcularly vulnerable to Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an open pressure sores because they normally rest on water or infected wound or known bacterial infecon and rather than land. The weight of their heavy body when should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer dry-docked can cause pressure sores to develop quickly. examinaon of the animal. Birds that are unable to stand are highly likely to Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID develop keel and hock lesions so it essenal to place appropriate padding, such as a rolled up towel in a U- Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID shape to help prop their body up. Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful In large pelagic birds this condion is best prevented condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if with appropriate padding, foot bandaging, good prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the husbandry and appropriate floor coverings. Depending animal. Dose rates: on severity the bird may require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care and bandaging. Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) 0.5-1 mg/kg BID 3. Traumac injuries Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be given capvity due to excessive force used during handling or twice a day issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or wings can get stuck). Acvated charcoal: not recommended 4. Feather damage Washing Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand the enclosure. Birds cannot be released if feather damage stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will remain effects waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. a natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on how to induce moult. Requirements for washing are very specific, such as water temperature, water soness and brand of Release criteria detergent. Refer to the “Washing” factsheet for detailed Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the informaon. following criteria: 1. Fully waterproof aer 6 hours swim test (refer to Waterproofing “Waterproofing” guidelines). 2. Weight within normal range for that species To regain waterproofing, birds must be given access to a (see www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz) pool with haulouts so that they can preen and dry off AND Body Condion Score ≥3/5 between swims. Degree of waterproofing should be assessed using the Waterproofing Assessment sheets

(hyperlink).

Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Frankfurter, G. Finlayson. Thanks to veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a variety of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its 3. PCV 32-40%, TP 37-60g/L preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving 4. UA <600 IU/dl any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly veterinarian make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy Other things to consider: of the informaon provided. • Is their release habitat free from oil? Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase. • Use boat to release on to water >10km from coast.

Lile Blue Penguin (Eudyptula minor) Picture of bird Full life history info: hp://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/lile-penguin

Introducon Ecology and life history The Lile Blue Penguin (also known as lile penguin, Normal adult weight range: Male 925-1650g blue penguin, fairy penguin, or kororā) is the smallest Female 765-1250g of all the penguin species in the world. They are found Moult: Synchronous moult i.e. moults all feathers at the on the main islands and coastal islands of New Zealand same me. In January-March for a 2 week duraon. and along the southern Australian coastline. Recent During this period LBPs stay in the burrow and do not go genec analysis strongly suggests that the NZ and swimming to forage for food. They can loose up to 50% of Australian lile penguins are two separate species. body weight during this period. Although they are the most common penguins in their Breeding: July to February. range, the populaon is declining due to several Monogamous. threatening processes including introduced predators Egg laying between Jul to Nov. (dogs and cats, ferrets in NZ and foxes in Australia), Incubaon 30-39 days. human disturbance or destrucon of nesng habitat Age at fledging 54-56 days. and decreased food supplies through overfishing. Age at first breeding 2-3 years. LBPs are a robust and resilient species that copes well Lifespan: up to 25 years. in the rehabilitaon environment, making them the Diet: Piscivorous ideal candidate for wash, rehabilitaon and release Conservaon status (NZ Threat Classificaon): Declining during an oil spill.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & shags will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness.

Vehicle transport: van or ute, with canopy and a separate air space from people to prevent inhalaon of oil fumes. Ideally temperature controlled (heang on cold days, cooling on hot days).

Lile Blue Penguin HUSBANDRY REQUIREMENTS Housing Keep indoors and temperature controlled at 25-27°C because oiled animals cannot thermoregulate.

pre-cleaning Enclosure (oiled) Plasc, vented bulk bins or box pallets are ideal for easy cleaning (available from www.plasc.co.nz and other plasc packaging companies) Can keep mulple birds in one crate, but do not overcrowd. Stainless steel or plasc hospital cages can be used as an alternave, but keep only one bird per cage.

Flooring Best opon is fine (0.5cm) non-knoed coon neng using PVC pipe as a frame and suspended at least 15cm from the cage floor. Alternave is blue tubing (available at hardware stores). These flooring types prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot. If using steel or plasc hospital cages then mulple layers of towels can be used on top of blue mang, but soiled towels must be changed regularly.

Covering Mesh or shade cloth on top of bulk bins/box pallets and secured with clips or weights. Cover the front of hospital cages with a towel to reduce stress.

Housing Enclosure post-cleaning Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. Can house mulple birds together. (NOT oiled) Flooring: Blue tube mang on ﬂoor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube ﬂooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot.

Burrows Hides made of plasc - upturned plasc box with semi-circle cut out. Protect the sharp edge of doorway with a hose-pipe split lengthways and taped in place. Provide one hide per bird.

Pool Penguins in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or children’s swimming pool or shell. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Minimum water depth for LBPs is 30cm. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • Heat water during winter months if ambient air temperature is below ~10-15°C. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface.

Transport As per handling instrucons. within facility If oiled, then wear appropriate PPE and encase in disposable material such blue inconnence pads. If clean, then encased in large towel. Wear gloves to prevent feather damage. Cover head to reduce visual smuli and stress.

Idenficaon Leg band or flipper band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Lile Blue Penguin NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Dosing If large numbers of birds require dosing then calculate dose based on the weight of the heaviest bird. Group animals into similar age and/or size class for dosing calculaons. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 75-80ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 50-60ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day). Food type If weak, emaciated, severely dehydrated or unable to hold head up: Only give oral electrolyte fluids at inial stabilisaon rate for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry and change to isotonic fluids. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon. Food Fish slurry: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add just enough isotonic preparaon (0.9% NaCl) fluid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Discard aer 24 in the refrigerator. Whole fish: Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. To cut large whole salmon into pieces, cut on an angle as pictured. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride) to recondion salt gland: Only required if birds have been housed long- term in freshwater. Start at least 2 week before release. Give orally either as 3% saline soluon at maintenance fluid rates or 100mg/kg BW PO once daily. Gradually increase dose over four days: Day 1 give ¼ dose, Day 2 give ½ dose, Day give ¾ dose, Day 4 give full dose, then connue at full dose.

Delivery & Warm fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. Deliver fluid and fish slurry with so crop tube, preferably silicone. device Force feed (FF) whole or pieces of fish head first. Some birds will learn to take fish by hand, others will need the head restrained and bill opened to place fish into the back of the mouth. Once the fish is far enough to the back of the throat the bird should swallow it down – release the head at this stage to allow the animal to swallow. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and causes dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: Interdigital, brachial, and medial metatarsal veins

Common Medicaons Washing Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. Requirements for washing are very specific, such as Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. water temperature, water soness and brand of See dose rate on page 1. detergent. Refer to the “Washing” factsheet for detailed informaon. Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an open or infected wound or known bacterial infecon and Waterproofing should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer To regain waterproofing, birds must be given access to a examinaon of the animal. pool with haulouts so that they can preen and dry off Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID between swims. Degree of waterproofing should be Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID assessed using the Waterproofing Assessment sheets.

Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful Lile Blue Penguins can take up to 10 days to become condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if fully waterproof. To be fit for release the bird must be prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the 100% waterproof aer 6 hours of forced swimming (no animal. Dose rates: access to haulouts). Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) 0.5-1 mg/kg BID Release criteria Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be given following criteria: twice a day 1. Fully waterproof aer 6 hours swim test (refer to “Waterproofing” guidelines). Acvated charcoal: not recommended 2. Weight within normal range (on page 1) AND Body Condion Score at least 3/5 Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon. Isolate any sick birds from the group.

2. Pressure sores: keel lesions, hock lesions or pododermas (bumblefoot) 3. PCV is 35-55% and TP is 30-55 g/L

Best prevented with good husbandry and appropriate 4. UA <600 IU/dl

floor coverings. Depending on severity the bird may 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care veterinarian and bandaging. Other things to consider: • Is their release habitat free from oil? 3. Traumac injuries • LBPs can be released on land near the shoreline. Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Finlayson. capvity due to excessive force used during handling or Thanks to veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or flippers Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. can get stuck). Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a variety 4. Feather damage of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or enclosure. completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving Birds cannot be released if feather damage effects any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for a person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on how make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy to induce moult. of the informaon provided. Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase. Picture Shags (Cormorants) of bird For idenficaon and species info refer to: www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz

Introducon Ecology and life history Shags, also known as cormorants, are Normal adult weight range: Normal adult weight varies between species. diving birds and therefore do not The Lile shag is the smallest species with weights ranging from 0.4-0.8kg, have external nostrils. Instead they while the larger species can get up to 2.5kg. Due to variaon between breath through gaps in the corner of species the doses used for feeding, fluid and medicaon should be their bills. They have four front- calculated based on the individual bird's weight. facing toes that are webbed. There Moult: Shags moult their feathers gradually over 5-10 months are 13 species found in New Zealand, Breeding: Breeding season varies between species. Most breed during the 7 of which are endemic to specific spring and summer months while other species are able to breed at islands and 1 species endemic to the anyme although in general they would only rear one clutch every 12 South Island. Shags in general do not months. The New Zealand King shag is unique in that it breeds during the migrate and remain resident in the winter months. area of their breeding site year- Diet: Mainly fish, but some species may also consume crustaceans, round. shellfish, insects and frogs.

Personal protecve equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE must be worn when capturing and handling oiled wildlife to prevent exposure to oil (disposable nitrile gloves, safety glasses/goggles, protecon for clothing e.g. Tyvec suit). Old towels or blue inconnence pads are useful to handle oiled birds as they can be discarded once soiled. Eye-protecon is essenal during capture and handling because they have a very quick neck reflex and will lunge at the eyes in defense. Capture Handling Consider the safety of both humans and Always wear eye-protecon when handling shags. Wear normal birds. examinaon gloves if not oiled to prevent feather damage. Restrain Oiled birds may sll have the ability to fly in a towel to prevent flapping and damaging of wings. Cover the depending on the amount and locaon of oil head with the towel to reduce stress. on the body. Long-handled fishing nets are Shags do not have nostrils and useful for capture. If the bird is on land and breath through their mouth so it is unable to fly then towels are useful for vitally important not to hold their capture by throwing it over the bird then mouth closed. Instead, their head gathering it up ensuring the wings are can be restrained with fingers restrained in the towel and the head is under the lower jaw and thumb covered. If the bird is on land then ensure gripping on top of the head that someone is standing between the bird (not the upper bill) or by holding the back of the head in the palm and the water to prevent them from entering and gripping the corners of the jaw with the fingers on one side and it. Most birds will defecate aer being caught. thumb on the other.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & shags will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness. Transport box: made of plasc, NOT wood or cardboard, as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and box reused. Best opon is a Corflute box. Available from A&E Karsten LTD (ph +64 9 266 2781, [email protected]) Size of the box should suit the size of the bird. Alternave opon is a plasc PetPak. Only ONE bird per box. Flooring: Correct flooring in the transport box is important. It should (i) be so and non-abrasive in order to prevent development of bumblefoot during transport, (ii) be non-slip so that the bird can steady itself and (iii) prevent build up of faecal maer that can cause urate burns. Blue-tube rubber mang covered with blue inconnence pads or a suspended neng floor are the best opons. Folded newspaper is inappropriate as it becomes too slippery when contaminated by faeces. Shredded paper, straw, hay and seagrass should be avoided as it increases the risk of Aspergillosis

Vehicle transport: van or ute, with canopy and a separate air space from people to prevent inhalaon of oil fumes. Ideally temperature controlled (heang on cold days, cooling on hot days).

Shags (cormorants) HUSBANDRY REQUIREMENTS Housing Keep indoors and temperature controlled at 25-27°C because oiled animals cannot thermoregulate.

pre-cleaning Enclosure: (oiled) • Shags need enough room to stretch their wings. • Keep in temperature controlled rooms. If room is very large then build temporary aviaries with a roof. Ensure walls of temporary enclosure are made of materials that can easily be cleaned of oil such as plasc or metal, not wood. Examples of suitable walls include temporary metal fencing with walls and roof lined with shade cloth to prevent damage to feathers. Ensure metal fencing is not galvanised with zinc or lead as this could lead to heavy metal poisoning if the birds chew on the fence. • Mulple shags of diﬀerent species can be kept in a single enclosure, but ensure that it is not overcrowded. Allow for 1.5m2 per bird. • Reduce visibility of humans and noise to minimise stress.

Flooring: • Best opon is fine (0.5cm) non-knoed coon neng using PVC pipe as a frame and suspended at least 15cm above floor. • Alternavely blue tube mang can be used (available at hardware stores) • Correct flooring is very important to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot. • Avoid oil coming into contact with a concrete floor as it is very difficult to clean. Line floor with heavy duty plasc sheets (e.g. pond liner or large garbage bags) then place neng or tube mang on top. Housing Enclosure post-cleaning Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. Large enough to allow them to stretch (no oil) their wings. Flooring Blue tube mang on floor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube flooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot.

Gregarious species Mulple shags of different species can be housed together in an aviary, but ensure that 2 it is not overcrowded and watch for bullying. Allow for 1.5m per bird. Perches Shags require perches. Long logs or tree stumps on the floor are suitable. Provide perches made of PVC tubing covered in blue tube mang suspended above the pool (pictured) or a floang ra. Diameter of piping should be appropriate for the size of their feet. Clean perches daily. Pool Seabirds in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable in-aviary pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or children’s swimming pool or shell. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Minimum water depth for shags is 50cm. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • No need to heat pool water. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface. Transport As per handling instrucons. Wear safety glasses. within facility If bird is oiled then appropriate PPE must be worn to prevent oil exposure. Use large towels for restraint and dispose if contaminated with oil. Idenficaon Leg band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Shags (cormorants) NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Dosing If large numbers of birds require dosing then calculate dose based on the weight of the heaviest bird. Group animals into similar age and/or size class for dosing calculaons. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 75-80ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 50-60ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated and dehydrated: Give oral electrolyte fluids at ‘inial stabilisaon’ rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: (i) Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline, (ii) 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline OR (iii) Vytrate®/Lectade®. Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon or large salmon cut into pieces. Food Fish slurry with insecvore mix: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add preparaon just enough isotonic (0.9% NaCl) fluid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Add a few scoops of insecvore mix. Note that the amount of insecvore mix to add may need to be adjusted based on the bird’s weight gain or loss. Discard aer 24 in the refrigerator. Whole fish: Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. To cut large whole salmon into pieces, cut on an angle as pictured. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride) to recondion salt gland: Only required if birds have been housed long- term in freshwater. Start at least 2 week before release. Give orally either as 3% saline soluon at maintenance fluid rates or 100mg/kg BW PO once daily. Gradually increase dose over four days: Day 1 give ¼ dose, Day 2 give ½ dose, Day give ¾ dose, Day 4 give full dose, then connue at full dose. Delivery & Warm fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. Large volumes of fluid and fish slurry are easier to deliver with a device large, plasc, lamb stomach tube 16” in length (pictured) and 60ml catheter-p syringe. If housed alone, some birds may learn to eat from a shallow bowl. Otherwise, force feed (FF) fish head first. Restrained head and open bill then place fish into the back of the mouth. Once the fish is far enough to the back of the throat the bird should swallow it down – release the head at this stage to allow the animal to swallow. Feeding is most safely done with two people. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and causes dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: The medial metatarsal vein is the easiest to access. Brachial vein can also be used.

Anaemia Kidney funcon Birds exposed to oil can quickly become anaemic Uric acid (UA) levels in birds are a measure of kidney (decreased red blood cells) due to the toxic affects of oil funcon. Elevated UA levels >600 IU/dl indicate that the and starvaon. As a minimum, packed cell volume (PCV) kidneys are failing or the animal is severely dehydrated, and serum total protein (TP) should be measured at both of which commonly occur in oiled birds. (1) intake (2) pre-wash (3) post-wash (4) pre-release. Treatment: IV or PO isotonic fluids at twice maintenance Severely anaemic (PCV<15-20) birds require blood rates (100ml/kg/24 hours) transfusion. Birds should not be released unl their UA levels return Birds should not be: to within the normal range (<600 IU/dl). If UA levels • washed unl PCV ≥30% and TP ≥25g/L remain elevated despite treatment then the bird likely • released unl their PCV and TP levels return to within has irreversible kidney failure and should be euthanised the normal range for shags = PCV 35-55%, TP 30-50g/L. on humane grounds. Shags (cormorants) Common Medicaons Washing An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. Requirements for washing are very specific. Refer to Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. the “Washing” factsheet for detailed informaon. See dose rate on page 1. Waterproofing Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an Shags are unique amongst diving birds in that their open or infected wound or known bacterial infecon feathers are parally "weable". All shags (except and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian Bounty Is shags) will stand with wings spread aer diving aer examinaon of the animal. in order to dry the wet feathers. The structure of their Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID feathers is quite different to other diving birds. The outer region of the feathers are loosely connected and Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID become water logged while the central core is highly Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful resistant to water penetraon. This facilitates a balance condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if between buoyancy and thermoregulaon while diving. prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the These structural differences in the feathers have animal. Dose rates: implicaons for waterproofing assessment: (1) surface Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) weness is not an appropriate measure (2) the body 0.5-1 mg/kg BID normally sits low in the water and therefore this feature Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) cannot be used as an indicator of waterproofing. The 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be recommended indicaon of waterproofing status for given twice a day shags is to assess the level of "wet to skin" and birds can Acvated charcoal: not recommended be considered waterproof once there are no areas of "wet to skin”. Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon Release criteria Isolate any sick birds from the group. Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the following criteria: 1. Aspergillosis 1. Waterproof (based on objecve scoring system) A serious, life-threatening respiratory fungal infecon. 2. Weight within normal range for that species Clinical signs include noisy or difficulty breathing. (see www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz) AND Body Condion Score at least 3/5 2. Pressure sores: keel lesions, hock lesions or pododermas (bumblefoot) The condion is best prevented with good husbandry and appropriate floor coverings. Depending on severity the bird may require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care and bandaging.

3. Traumac injuries

Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in 3. PCV 35-55%, TP 30-50/L capvity due to excessive force used during handling or 4. UA <600 IU/dl issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or wings can 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by get stuck). veterinarian

Other things to consider: 4. Feather damage • Is their release habitat free from oil? Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or • Can be released on the shoreline. enclosure. Birds cannot be released if feather damage eﬀects waterprooﬁng. If it is the wrong me of year for Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a variety a natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its how to induce moult. preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for any Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Frankfurter, G. Finlayson. loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any person Thanks to veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly make and Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy of the Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase. informaon provided.

Small Pelagic seabirds: Picture Fulmarine petrels, prions, shearwaters, of bird storm petrels & diving petrels For idenﬁcaon and species info refer to: www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz

Introducon Ecology and life history This group of pelagic birds represent the Normal adult weight range: varies greatly between species, ranging true seabirds spending most of their lives on from 35g storm petrels to 5kg giant petrels (included in Large Pelagic the open ocean, only coming onto land to factsheet). See www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz for species weight ranges. nest. The group is commonly known as Moult: Most of the birds in these families have a simple, gradual "tube-nosed" as their nares (nostrils) form a moult over 2-5 months, usually during the non-breeding season, pair of tubes on the top surface of the upper with some species connuing moult into the start of the breeding bill. The families in this group consist of season. There is some evidence that diving petrels may undergo a fulmarine petrels, prions, shearwaters, synchronous moult of wing and tail feathers storm petrels and diving petrels. New Breeding: Birds that breed in New Zealand waters usually do so Zealand waters have the highest biodiversity during the southern hemisphere’s spring and summer (Sep to Mar of this group of birds and 12 out of the 60 generally). species in New Zealand are endemic. Some Diet: Fish, crustaceans, squid, insects species migrate to the northern hemisphere Fulmarine and storm petrels: water surface scavengers while others, like the broad-billed prion, Prions: plankton ﬁlter feeders remain locally year-round in waters near Shearwaters: on the wing or shallow dives their breeding grounds. Diving petrels: diving

Personal protecve equipment (PPE): Appropriate PPE must be worn when capturing and handling oiled wildlife to prevent exposure to oil (disposable nitrile gloves, safety glasses/goggles, protecon for clothing e.g. Tyvec suit). Old towels or blue inconnence pads are useful to handle oiled birds as they can be discarded once soiled. Capture Handling Consider the safety of both humans and birds. Wear normal examinaon gloves if not oiled to prevent Oiled birds may sll have the ability to fly depending on feather damage. Small birds can be held in the palm of the amount and locaon of oil on the body. Long- one hand and head restrained with the thumb and first handled fishing nets are useful for capture. If the bird is finger. on land and unable to fly then towels are useful for Larger birds are best restrained in a capture by throwing it over the bird then gathering it up towel to prevent flapping and damaging ensuring the wings are restrained in the towel and the of wings. Cover the head with the towel head is covered. If the bird is on land then ensure that to reduce stress. someone is standing between the bird and the water to Bing can be prevented by holding the bill with the first prevent them from entering it. This group of birds will finger on top and the thumb underneath ensuring that oen regurgitate stomach oil as a defense mechanism. the nostrils are clear to allow breathing. Alternavely, Take care not to get oil on feathers. the head can be held from behind.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & cormorants will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness.

Transport box: made of plasc, NOT wood or cardboard, as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and box reused. Best opon is a Corflute box (pictured). Available from A&E Karsten LTD (ph +64 9 266 2781, [email protected]) Size of the box should suit the size of the bird. Alternave opon is a plasc PetPak. Only ONE bird per box. Flooring: Correct flooring in the transport box is important. It should (i) be so and non-abrasive in order to prevent development of bumblefoot during transport, (ii) be non-slip so that the bird can steady itself and (iii) prevent build up of faecal maer that can cause urate burns. Blue-tube rubber mang covered with blue inconnence pads or a suspended neng floor are the best opons. Folded newspaper is inappropriate as it becomes too slippery when contaminated by faeces. Shredded paper, straw, hay and seagrass should be avoided as it increases the risk of Aspergillosis

Vehicle transport: van or ute, with canopy and a separate air space from people to prevent inhalaon of oil fumes. Ideally temperature controlled (heang on cold days, cooling on hot days).

Small pelagic seabirds HUSBANDRY REQUIREMENTS Housing Keep indoors and temperature controlled at 25-27°C because oiled animals cannot thermoregulate.

pre-cleaning Enclosure: Plasc vented bulk bins or box pallets are the best for easy cleaning. (oiled) (available from www.plasc.co.nz and other plasc packaging companies). Some species may be housed in groups while other species need to be on their own. It is highly recommended to seek informaon regarding behavioural characteriscs of each species at www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz. If using steel or plasc hospital cages: • cages must be high enough for the bird to stand and stretch its neck and wings. • Keep only one bird per cage.

Flooring: Best opon is fine (0.5cm) non-knoed coon neng using PVC pipe as a frame and suspended at least 15cm from the cage floor. Alternave is blue tubing (available at hardware stores). These flooring types prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot. If using steel or plasc hospital cages then mulple layers of towels can be used on top of blue mang, but soiled towels must be changed regularly.

Covering: Mesh or shade cloth on top of bulk bins/box pallets and secured with clips or weights. Cover the front of hospital cages with a towel to reduce stress. Housing Enclosure: post-cleaning Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. (no oil) Flooring Blue tube mang on floor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube flooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot. Burrows Hides made of plasc - upturned plasc box with semi-circle cut out. Protect the sharp edge of doorway with a hose-pipe split lengthways and taped in place. PVC tubing can be used as shelters for the smaller species. Provide one hide per bird. Social or Solitary • Some species are highly social and can be housed in groups e.g. all prion species, some petrel and shearwater species. Do not overcrowd and allow at least 1.5m2 per bird. If there is only one bird from a social species then place mirrors in enclosure. • Other species are generally solitary and only come together during the breeding season e.g. most storm petrel species, some petrel and shearwater species. It is highly recommended to seek informaon regarding behavioural characteriscs of each species at www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz. Pool • Seabirds in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or children’s swimming pool or shell. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Minimum water depth for small pelagic birds is 30cm. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • Heat water during winter months if ambient air temperature is below ~10-15°C. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface. Transport As per handling instrucons. Cover head to reduce visual smuli and stress. within facility If oiled, then wear appropriate PPE and encase in disposable material such blue inconnence pads. If clean, then encased in towel. Wear gloves to prevent feather damage. Idenficaon Leg band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Small pelagic seabirds NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Dosing If large numbers of birds require dosing then calculate dose based on the weight of the heaviest bird. Group animals into age and/or size class for dosing calculaons. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 80ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 60ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid types For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated and dehydrated: Give oral electrolyte fluids at ‘inial stabilisaon’ rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of fish slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small whole salmon or large salmon cut into pieces. Food Fish slurry with insecvore mix: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add just preparaon enough isotonic (0.9% NaCl) fluid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Add a few scoops of insecvore mix. Note that the amount of insecvore mix to add may need to be adjusted based on the bird’s weight gain or loss. Discard aer 24 in the refrigerator. Whole fish: Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. To cut large whole salmon into pieces, cut on an angle (pic). Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride) to recondion salt gland: Only required if birds have been housed long-term with freshwater pools. Start at least 2 week before release. Give orally either as 3% saline soluon at maintenance fluid rates or 100mg/kg BW PO once daily. Gradually increase dose over four days: Day 1 give ¼ dose, Day 2 give ½ dose, Day give ¾ dose, Day 4 give full dose, then connue at full dose.

Delivery & Warm fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. Deliver fluid and fish slurry with so crop tube, preferably silicone. device Force feed (FF) whole or pieces of fish head first. Some birds will learn to take fish by hand, others will need the head restrained and bill opened to place fish into the back of the mouth. Once the fish is far enough to the back of the throat the bird should swallow it down – release the head at this stage to allow the animal to swallow. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and causes dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: The medial metatarsal vein is the easiest to access.

Common Medicaons Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis Isolate any sick birds from the group. An-fungals: (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly 1. Aspergillosis recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble A serious, life-threatening respiratory fungal infecon. to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. Clinical signs include noisy or difficulty breathing. Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. See dose rate on page 1. 2. Pressure sores: Keel lesions, Hock lesions or Pododermas (bumblefoot) Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an Pelagic seabirds are parcularly vulnerable to pressure open or infected wound or known bacterial infecon sores because they normally rest on water rather than and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian on their feet on land. Birds that are unable to stand are aer examinaon of the animal. highly likely to develop keel and hock lesions so it Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID essenal to place appropriate padding, such as a rolled Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID up towel in a U- shape to help prop their body up. The condion is best prevented with good husbandry Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful and appropriate floor coverings. Depending on severity condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if the bird may require surgery. Treatment involves prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the specific wound care and bandaging. animal. Dose rates: Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) 3. Traumac injuries 0.5-1 mg/kg BID Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) capvity due to excessive force used during handling or 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or wings can get stuck). given twice a day 4. Feather damage Acvated charcoal: not recommended Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or enclosure. Birds cannot be released if feather damage Washing effects waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand a natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will how to induce moult. remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. Release criteria Requirements for washing are very specific, such as Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the water temperature, water soness and brand of following criteria: detergent. Refer to the “Washing” factsheet for detailed 1. Waterproof (based on objecve scoring system) informaon. 2. Weight within normal range for that species (see www.nzbirdsonline.org.nz) Waterproofing AND Body Condion Score at lease 3/5 To regain waterproofing, birds must be given access to a pool with haulouts so that they can preen and dry off between swims. Degree of waterproofing should be assessed using the Waterproofing Assessment sheets (hyperlink).

Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Frankfurter, G. Finlayson. Thanks to veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase

Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a 3. PCV 30-55%, TP 40-60g/L variety of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in 4. UA <600 IU/dl its preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable veterinarian for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any Other things to consider: person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy • Is their release habitat free from oil? of the informaon provided. • Use boat to release on to water >10km from coast. Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase.

Yellow-eyed penguin (Megadyptes anpodes) Picture of bird Full life history info: hp://nzbirdsonline.org.nz/species/yellow-eyed-penguin

Introducon Ecology and life history The yellow-eyed penguin (YEP) is endemic to New Normal adult weight range: Zealand and is the largest species of penguin that 5-6kg but get to 7-8kg pre-moult breeds on the mainland. Breeding colonies are found Moult: Synchronous moult i.e. moults all feathers at the on the southwest coast of the South Island as well as same me. In April for a 3-4 week duraon. the subantarcc on Auckland and Campbell Islands. During this period YEPs stay on land and do not go The mainland and subantarcc populaons are swimming to forage for food. genecally disnct. Breeding: August to April. There are approximately 1700 breeding pairs and Monogamous. the species is considered naonally vulnerable. Egg laying between September to October. Chicks are suscepble to predaon by introduced Two eggs laid over 2-3 days predators such dogs, cats, ferrets and stoats. Incubaon 39-51 days. There is a great deal of inter-annual variaon in Age at fledging 98-120 days. breeding success which is thought to be due to Age at first breeding 2.6 years. variaons in food supply. Lifespan: 20+ years Disease in an important threat to the mainland Diet: Fish and squid populaon. Outbreaks of diphtheric stomas or Conservaon status (NZ Threat Classificaon): bill deformies in growing chicks occur intermiently Naonally vulnerable but no specific causave agents have been idenfied.

Transport to WARNING – NEVER place your eyes close to holes in transport boxes. facility Herons, gannets & cormorants will lunge at eyes causing serious injury or blindness.

Transport box: Made of plasc (NOT wood) as oil contaminaon can be cleaned and the box reused. Best opon is an PetPak carrier: XXL Model No. PP60, 74(H) x 62(W) x 95(L)cm. YEP must be able to stand up or lie ﬂat inside cage (average YEP height approx 65cm) Only ONE bird per box.

pre-cleaning Enclosure (oiled) • Keep in temperature controlled rooms. YEPs are too large to be kept in standard hospital cages. • If room is very large then build temporary enclosures. Ensure walls of temporary enclosure are made of materials that can easily be cleaned of oil such as plasc or metal, not wood. Examples of suitable walls include temporary metal fencing lined with shade cloth (to prevent feather damage) or plasc traﬃc barriers without holes. Ensure metal fencing is not galvanised with zinc or lead as this could lead to heavy metal poisoning if the birds chew on the fence. • Mulple birds can be housed together. Do not overcrowd. • Reduce visibility of humans and noise to minimise stress.

Flooring Avoid oil coming into contact with a concrete floor as it is very difficult to clean. Line floor with heavy duty plasc sheets (e.g. pond liner or large garbage bags) then place blue tube mang on top (available at hardware stores). Correct flooring is very important to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup which can cause feather damage and bumblefoot.

Covering Cover over the enclosure is not required.

Housing Enclosure post-cleaning Outdoor aviary with shade cloth covering the roof and walls. Can house mulple birds together but do not overcrowd. (NOT oiled) Flooring: Blue tube mang on ﬂoor to prevent uric acid and faecal buildup and bumblefoot. NOTE: grey tube ﬂooring is harder than the blue version which increases risk of bumblefoot.

Burrows Large hides made of plasc - upturned plasc box with arch cut out. Protect the sharp edge of doorway with a hose-pipe split lengthways and taped in place. Provide one hide per bird.

Pool Penguins in the rehabilitaon phase need access to water in their enclosure to aid waterproofing. • Suitable pool types: built-in, large plasc containers or plasc (non-inflatable) child’s pool. • Non-slip ramps to allow easy access and exit of water. • Preferably use seawater, but freshwater can be used. If using freshwater then provide birds with a salt supplement in order to maintain salt glands (see “Supplements” secon). • No need to heat the pool water. YEPs are large, robust and come from a cold water climate. • Connuous flow of water is required to prevent buildup of fish oil and faeces on the surface of the water which inhibits the waterproofing process. This is most easily achieved by placing a hose above the pool allowing the running water to break the surface of the pool water and leng it overflow. Good drainage around the pool is required. • Surface skimmer is useful for removing oil, food and faeces floang on the surface.

Transport As per handling instrucons. within facility If oiled, then encase in disposable material such as blue inconnence pads. If clean, then encase in large towel. Must wear gloves to prevent feather damage. Cover head to reduce visual smuli and stress.

Idenficaon Leg band or flipper band (temporary idenficaon to be removed before release) Yellow-eyed penguin NUTRITION, SUPPLEMENTS and FLUIDS At admission Triage assessment: physical examinaon by trained personnel (preferably a veterinarian) Record cloacal temperature. Give fluids at inial stabilisaon rates below. Dosing If large numbers of birds require dosing then calculate dose based on the weight of the heaviest bird. Group animals into similar age and/or size class for dosing calculaons. Fluid rate Inial stabilisaon: 80-100ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Once hydrated: 60ml/kg body weight/day divided into two doses PO Fluid type For long term maintenance use either isotonic saline (0.9%) or Vytrate®/Lectade® Amount Feed 10% of body weight (BW) TWICE a day. (i.e. 20% of body weight total each day) Food type If weak, emaciated and dehydrated: Give oral electrolyte fluids at ‘inial stabilisaon’ rate listed above for 24 hours to rehydrate gut. Use either: Equal parts (50:50) Hartmann’s soluon and 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline 5% dextrose in 0.9% saline or Vytrate®/Lectade®

Once gut is hydrated, then start with small amounts of ﬁsh slurry. If able to take solids: human grade small to medium whole salmon. Food Fish slurry: Place human grade salmon in heavy duty blender and blend. Add just enough isotonic preparaon (0.9% NaCl) ﬂuid to blender to achieve a smooth consistency. Sieve slurry using a metal sieve to remove any chunks that may clog the feeding tube. Discard aer 24 in the refrigerator.

Whole fish: : Ideally defrost covered in refrigerator to retain nutrional quality. However, if large amounts of food are required then fish can be defrosted under cold running water immediately before feeding so long as vitamin supplements are given. Supplements ① Mazuri seabird vitamins: 1 tablet per 225g fish. (Available at Carlyle Vet Clinic, Napier 06 835 1096). ② Itraconazole (Sporonox): 5mg/kg BW PO once daily via so crop tube to prevent Aspergillosis. ③ Salt (sodium chloride) to recondion salt gland: Only required if birds have been housed long- term in freshwater. Start at least 2 week before release. Give orally either as 3% saline soluon at maintenance fluid rates or 100mg/kg BW PO once daily. Gradually increase dose over four days: Day 1 give ¼ dose, Day 2 give ½ dose, Day give ¾ dose, Day 4 give full dose, then connue at full dose. Delivery & Warm fluids and slurry to 38-40°C. device Large volumes of fluid and fish slurry are easier to deliver with a large, plasc, lamb stomach tube 16” in length (pictured) and 60ml catheter-p syringe. Force feed (FF) whole fish head first. Some birds will learn to take fish by hand, others will need the head restrained and bill opened to place fish into the back of the mouth. Once the fish is far enough to the back of the throat the bird should swallow it down – release the head at this stage to allow the animal to swallow. Avoid geng fish juices on the skin and feathers at the corner of the mouth as this disrupts waterproofing and causes dermas. If fish juice/oil gets onto skin or feathers DO NOT ATTEMPT TO WIPE OFF. Rinse area with a large syringe of water and allow bird to preen. HEALTH SCREENING Venepuncture sites: Interdigital, brachial, and medial metatarsal veins

Anaemia Kidney funcon Birds exposed to oil can quickly become anaemic Uric acid (UA) levels in birds are a measure of kidney (decreased red blood cells) due to the toxic affects of oil funcon. Elevated UA levels >600 IU/dl indicate that the and starvaon. As a minimum, packed cell volume (PCV) kidneys are failing or the animal is severely dehydrated, and serum total protein (TP) should be measured at both of which commonly occur in oiled birds. (1) intake (2) pre-wash (3) post-wash (4) pre-release. Treatment: IV or PO isotonic fluids at twice maintenance Severely anaemic (PCV<15-20%) birds require blood rates (100ml/kg/24 hours) transfusion. Birds should not be released unl their UA levels return Birds should not be: to within the normal range (<600 IU/dl). If UA levels • washed unl PCV ≥30% and TP ≥25g/L remain elevated despite treatment then the bird likely • released unl their PCV and TP levels return to within has irreversible kidney failure and should be euthanised the normal range for YEPs = PCV 30-55%, TP 40-60 g/L. on humane grounds. Yellow-eyed penguin Common Medicaons Washing Birds must be stable and strong enough to withstand An-fungals: Preventave treatment of Aspergillosis the stress of washing. This may mean that a bird will (a severe respiratory fungal infecon) is highly remain oiled for several days unl it has been stabilised. recommended as these birds are extremely suscepble to this life-threatening disease when in capvity. Requirements for washing are very specific, such as Itraconazole available only by veterinary prescripon. water temperature, water soness and brand of See dose rate on page 1. detergent. Refer to the “Washing” factsheet for detailed informaon. Anbiocs: are only required if the animal has an open or infected wound or known bacterial infecon and Waterproofing should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer To regain waterproofing, birds must be given access to examinaon of the animal. a pool with haulouts so that they can preen and dry off Dose rates: Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid 125mg/kg PO BID between swims. Degree of waterproofing should be Enrofloxacin 5-10mg/kg PO BID assessed using the Waterproofing Assessment sheets (hyperlink). Pain relief: is only required if the animal has a painful condion (e.g. open wound) and should only be given if prescribed by a veterinarian aer examinaon of the Release criteria animal. Dose rates: Birds should only be released if they fulfill ALL the Meloxicam (for mild to moderate so ssue pain) following criteria: i0.5-1 mg/kg BID 1. Fully waterproof aer 6 hours swim test (refer to Butorphanol (for moderate to severe bone pain) “Waterproofing” guidelines). 5mg/kg IM ideally every 2-3hours but can be given 2. Weight within normal range (on page 1) twice a day AND Body Condion Score at least 3/5 using pectoral muscle scoring system: Acvated charcoal: not recommended

Problems associated with capvity ALL secondary complicaons require veterinary aenon. Isolate any sick birds from the group.

2. Pressure sores: keel lesions, hock lesions or 3. PCV is 35-55% and TP is 30-55 g/L 4. UA <600 IU/dl pododermas (bumblefoot) 5. Secondary complicaons resolved and checked by Best prevented with good husbandry and appropriate veterinarian floor coverings. Depending on severity the bird may require surgery. Treatment involves specific wound care Other things to consider: and bandaging. • Is their release habitat free from oil? 3. Traumac injuries • YEPs can be released on land near the shoreline. Traumac injuries such as bone fractures can occur in capvity due to excessive force used during handling or Authors: S. Finlayson, B. White, L. Chilvers, G. Finlayson. Thanks to veterinary technicians and veterinary residents in the Wildbase issues in the enclosure (eg. gaps where legs or flippers Hospital and to others for their input, feedback and photos. can get stuck). Disclaimer: This fact sheet is managed by Wildbase Oil Response (WOR) for informaon purposes only. Informaon contained in it is drawn from a 4. Feather damage variety of sources external to WOR. Although reasonable care was taken in its preparaon, WOR does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, reliability, Usually occurs from inappropriate handling or enclosure. completeness, or currency of the informaon or its usefulness in achieving Birds cannot be released if feather damage effects any purpose. To the fullest extent permied by law, WOR will not be liable for any loss, damage, cost or expense incurred in or arising by reason of any waterproofing. If it is the wrong me of year for a person relying on informaon in this fact sheet. Persons should accordingly natural moult, please seek advice from Wildbase on how make and rely on their own assessments and enquiries to verify the accuracy to induce moult. of the informaon provided. Pictures: Unless otherwise credited, all pictures are copyright of Wildbase.