The use of snowmobiles in the drug immobilization of muskoxen

• Published in: Canadian Journal of Zoology
• Main Authors: Jingfors, K., Gunn, Anne
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1989
• Subjects: Animal Science and Zoology; Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics; ovibos moschatus
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/z89-160; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/z89-160

During the early winter in 1983 and 1985 on Victoria and Banks islands, respectively, we used snowmobiles to approach and hold muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus) in tight groups, while individual animals were darted with a mixture of M99 and Rompun. We immobilized 47 muskoxen with one capture-related mortality from an accidental overdose. The effective dosage that resulted in acceptable induction and recovery times for most adult muskoxen was 7–8 mg M99 and 25–30 mg Rompun. Considerably cheaper to use than helicopters, snowmobiles also were more effective in holding muskoxen together and in reducing stress prior to immobilization. Darts could be fired at close range allowing for easier selection of individual muskoxen and for proper dart placement. Simultaneous darting and recovery of several animals in a group further reduced animal stress and increased capture efficiency.