Capturing wild animals for research, translocation, and veterinary care requires methods that minimise stress and injury.
Wild animal capture for conservation, research, or veterinary intervention causes acute welfare harm even when necessary. Chemical immobilisation carries significant mortality risk and requires highly trained veterinary oversight. Trap-induced stress causes physiological changes that can compromise the data being collected. The welfare cost of capture must be justified by the conservation or welfare benefit. Non-invasive alternatives should always be considered first. When capture is necessary, rapid procedures with experienced personnel and immediate monitoring minimise welfare costs.