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Immunocontraception in Eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis): morphologic changes in reproductive organs.

Murali Pai¹, R Bruner, Donald H Schlafer

¹North Slope Borough Department of Wildlife Management, P.O. Box 69, Barrow, Alaska 99723, USA. ecovetpai@yahoo.com

Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine : Official Publication of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians

|December 30, 2011

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The immunocontraceptive GonaCon caused testicular atrophy and reduced sperm in male Eastern gray squirrels (EGS). This vaccine shows potential for EGS population control, though further study is needed for females.

Area of Science:

Wildlife biology
Veterinary immunology
Reproductive biology

Background:

Eastern gray squirrels (EGS) cause tree damage through bark stripping and gnawing.
Urban EGS populations can reach high densities, exacerbating damage.
Contraceptive methods are sought for wildlife population management.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the effects of the immunocontraceptive GonaCon on EGS reproductive organs.
To assess the histological impact of GonaCon on male and female EGS reproductive tissues.
To determine the efficacy of GonaCon as a potential tool for EGS population control.

Main Methods:

Free-ranging urban EGS were vaccinated with GonaCon or a saline control.
Vaccinations were administered via intramuscular injection to EGS aged 6 months or older.

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Necropsies were performed on treated and control EGS to examine testes, ovaries, and pituitary glands histologically.

Main Results:

Treated male EGS exhibited testicular, prostatic, and epididymal atrophy.
Atrophy of seminiferous tubules and prostatic lumens was observed in treated males.
No sperm cells were found in the epididymal lumen of treated males; no significant histological changes were noted in females.
No significant differences in testosterone or progesterone levels were found between groups.

Conclusions:

GonaCon induced significant histological changes in the reproductive organs of male EGS.
The vaccine demonstrated potential for EGS population control, particularly in males.
Further research is recommended to determine optimal timing for female EGS assessment and long-term effects.