Chemical Aversion Conditioning of Polar and Black Bears

January 1, 1980

Chemical Aversion Conditioning of Polar and Black Bears

Emetine hydrochloride (EHCl), alpha-naphthyl-thiourea (ANTU), and lithium chloride (LiCl) were tested as aversion-conditioning chemicals on black bears (Ursus americanus Pallas) and on polar bears (U. maritimus Phipps) from 1975 to 1977. Captive black bears were fed varying doses of EHCl and LiCl to establish effective dose levels of these chemicals. Four cow kills, treated with LiCl and ANTU, showed an apparent 50 percent increase over controls in the times taken by free-ranging black bears to consume the carcasses. ANTU, EHCl, and LiCl reduced the consumption of Gainesburger baits by free-ranging polar and black bears. Approximate effective dosages of each chemical (orally administered and based on body weight) are 25 mg/kg for ANTU, 100-350 mg/kg for LiCl, and 2.0-4.0 mg/kg for EHCl.

Author(s) Donald R. Wooldridge
Volume 4
Issue
Pages 167-173
Publication Date 1 January 1980
DOI 10.2307/3872863
File Size 269.72 KB
Download

We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land, sea and waters, of the area that we live, work and research across the earth. We recognise their continued custodianship and connection to the land, waters and community. We respect and honor Elders past, present and emerging. Our hope is that we move forward with open minds listening and learning from their wisdom and knowledge.