The multipurpose stick: A complete and low-cost technique for remote sample collection in pinnipeds

The recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 among southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) in Argentine Patagonia, resulting in the deaths of thousands of animals, highlights the urgent need for health monitoring strategies among free-ranging pinnipeds. Traditional sampling methods that rely on chemical immobilization pose significant risks to animal welfare and increase operational complexity. In this study, we developed and validated a novel telescopic sampling device that can collect nasal mucosal samples from wild pinnipeds without the need for sedation or capture. This device's innovation lies in (1) its low cost and easy sourcing of the telescopic support; (2) its purpose-designed, open-source mounting hardware that standardises tool orientation and attachment; and (3) its fully documented workflow (including printing notes, assembly, and the sampling protocol). The device incorporates 3D-printed, interchangeable attachments for swabs and Petri dishes, enabling sample collection at a safe distance. Field tests were conducted on southern elephant seals in breeding colonies in Chubut, Argentina. Samples from fifteen individuals were successfully collected and processed using Gram staining, revealing microbial growth in all cases. The detected microorganisms included Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi. The bacteria were morphologically consistent with cocci, bacilli and streptococci. The device demonstrated high operational efficiency, enabling safe and effective sampling under field conditions. This non-invasive approach significantly reduces stress for the animals and logistical burdens for researchers. It is an ideal tool for monitoring the health of wild pinniped populations and has promising applications for the early detection of outbreaks, surveillance of zoonotic diseases, and assessment of ecosystem health.