Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
leagues, or consult with marker manufacturers or merchants. Limited guid-
ance also is available through guidelines published by scientific journals (Ani-
mal Behavior Society/Animal Society for Animal Behavior 1986) and govern-
ment agencies (Canadian Council on Animal Care 1980; Canadian Wildlife
Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 1996) and in general references
(Day et al. 1980; Friend et al. 1994; Heyer et al. 1994; Nietfeld et al. 1994;
Wilson et al. 1996). In addition, several professional zoological societies
(American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, American Fisheries
Society, American Institute of Fisheries Biologists, Herpetologists' League,
Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, American Ornithologists'
Union, and American Society of Mammalogists) have published guidelines for
the use of animals in field research. In general, these societies suggest that
markers incur as little pain as possible and not restrict excessively behavior,
physiology, and survival of study animals. We provide a brief overview of some
current recommendations provided by zoological societies (see Animal Behav-
ior Society 1986; American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, et al.
1987a, 1987b; Ad Hoc Committee 1988; Animal Care and Use Committee
1998).
Tagging and mutilation
Tags used on fish, reptiles and amphibians should be of appropriate size and
shape, but the use of tags that protrude from the body or are brightly colored
is discouraged. It is recommended that for birds all bands be of appropriate
size, but the use of nasal disks, saddles, patagial markers, dyes, and ultraviolet
markers is discouraged.
Fin clipping is suggested as having minimal impact on survival and social
structure of fish, and it is recommended as an appropriate technique if the spe-
cific fins to be clipped are expendable by the target species. Free-ranging rep-
tiles and amphibians should not be toe-clipped unless the technique has been
shown not to impair normal activity in the target species or a close relative,
whereas for mammals it is recommended that all types of mutilations be
avoided. Although birds are occasionally marked via mutilation (i.e., nail clip-
ping, web-punching, feather clipping), no guidelines for use of this technique
have been provided.
Marking fish, reptiles, and amphibians using techniques such as tissue
removal, branding, freeze branding, and electrocauterization is generally
acceptable, but the use of tattoos and paint is less desirable because of prob-
lems associated with dye visibility and legibility. Although fish can be marked
