Elephant Manager, Lindsay Bronson works together with the Zoo’s Veterinary Technician Garrett Caulkins and Director of Animal Health & Conservation Dr. Jeff Wyatt to radiograph (take an X-ray) of our African elephant Genny C’s tusk and sulcus.
The sulcus is the area around the tusk. Genny C is happy to participate not only because she is well trained but because she gets lots of treats and positive reinforcement throughout the procedure.
Our elephants know about 60 behaviors, many of which are medical behaviors that allow us to do routine check ups on them. The relationship between the elephants, their keepers and the vet staff is also important when doing medical behaviors. The trust among them all helps to make the procedure go safely and smoothly.
– Gail Tabone, Assistant Zoo Director
