Biomaterials

Overview
Biological samples collected by zoo biologists during their daily husbandry or veterinary routines provide a valuable resource for the researcher and the educator.  The goal of the WCS Biomaterials Program is to coordinate the collection, storage, and distribution of these resources. 
 
Biomaterials in the Zoo
Within the zoo setting there are many opportunities for veterinarians, pathologists, and animal managers to collect biological samples noninvasively from the animals housed in the collection.  Veterinarians may collect samples during routine surgical and necropsy procedures.  Keeper staff may collect fecal and urine samples, as well as hair and feathers, while performing their daily duties. 

Biomaterials in the Field
WCS international staff members also encounter many opportunities to collect samples noninvasively during the course of their fieldwork.  The biologist may come upon an animal carcass in the field, discover hair or feathers in an animal's nest, or have the opportunity to collect a fecal sample, all of which may be used for research purposes.  In addition, whenever an animal is handled by WCS field veterinarians, they collect many different samples in order to maximize the opportunity of having an animal in hand.  

WCS Biomaterials Program
The WCS has a Biomaterials Program to address the many issues involved in the collection, storage, and distribution of biomaterials.  The program is administered by the WCS Biomaterials Committee whose primary responsibilities are to review the protocols and policies of the WCS with regard to biological samples, in addition to reviewing biomaterials requests from researchers.  This Committee is composed of veterinarians and pathologists, curators, facility directors, researchers and registrars.  The WCS Biomaterials Program also works with field staff to develop protocols for the collection and storage of samples in the field, to facilitate permit acquisition and to provide information regarding the safe handling of samples in the field.  Researchers interested in obtaining biological samples from WCS animals should submit a Biomaterials Application Request and Biomaterials Release Agreement.