Housing

Twelve Ultimate Reptile Suppliers (URS) polyethylene, seamless, stackable, small reptile vivariums (400x650x665mm) were arranged in a 4x3 bank on wheels for easy rear access.

Each unit has a 50-watt Heat Glo infrared basking spot lamp mounted into the ceiling with small flat ceramic batten (plastic fittings will melt). Both are connected to a Thermofilm model THAT 040, thermostat set at 30 ° C. The heat and thermostat probe are located on one side of the vivarium to provide a heat gradient.

A Reptistar UV tube (18 inch) and aquarium lighting-reflector hood are set into the rear vent allowing 72% of UVA and UVB. The tube is connected to a timer set for natural photoperiods.

A 200mm diameter terra cotta pot-plant saucer is used as a water dish and to provide adequate humidity inside the vivarium.

Nebuliser

Omron Ultrasonic nebuliser model NE-U14 or Allersearch Rapid nebulizer was used to deliver micro-particles (1 to 8 micrometres) of distilled water into a hospital box with a Perspex front, for approximately 10 minutes. The Perspex had a hole cut into it and a bracket fitted to hold the nebuliser safely in position. It was necessary to keep the nebuliser unit outside to prevent moisture entering the unit causing corrosion of the electrical/battery points.

Due to the numbers of bobtails treated (20 –25/day), a 4-x chamber manifold was connected to 4x 100mm diameter PVC pipes on a stand to hold each lizard during their nebuliser treatment.

Conclusion

Although an upper respiratory disease has devastated bobtail populations in the Western Australia, success rates are high if it is treated early. Veterinary care, good husbandry and rehabilitation methods are essential to the survival of this lizard and its live-born young. Ecological studies are being carried out by a Curtin University PhD student, to determine current numbers of bobtails and their conservation needs.

By Ruth Haight - Registered Veterinary Nurse/Wildlife Carer
Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre Inc
Perth W.A.