Veterinary staff at Perth Zoo work with other scientists to research animal diseases, nutrition and reproduction.
Our veterinarians are currently supervising student research into parasites in captive and wild African Painted Dogs and the health of wild Quokkas. Researching animal health at the Zoo can also benefit animals in the wild.
Another current research project is investigating declining populations of Woylies in the wild. Woylies, or Brush-tailed Bettongs, are small, kangaroo-like marsupials. They were once widespread across southern Australia but are now restricted to just a few sites in Western Australia and South Australia. Woylie populations at these locations are now in decline and scientists suspect this is because a disease is making them vulnerable to predators.
Perth Zoo is collaborating with the Department of Environment and Conservation, Murdoch University and community groups to research diseases of Woylies that may be involved in population declines. In this project, the veterinary department assists with assessing disease risk, developing protocols, implementing specific studies and treating any sick or injured Woylies that are found in the wild.
Very little is known about diseases which affect much of Australia’s wildlife including what the diseases are and their effects and patterns, so any information obtained from the investigation is extremely valuable.
More information on health and disease research at Perth Zoo.
Potential research projects are available at Perth Zoo for university students.
