Sidedoor Zoo's Clues
May 14, 2025
In this fascinating conversation, Kali Holder, an anatomic pathologist at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, shares her insights into the mysteries of animal health. She dives into intriguing cases, like the dizzy kudu and a rhino with an unexplained skin disease. Kali describes her work in the necropsy lab, revealing the emotional and scientific challenges faced in animal healthcare. She also touches on the complex social dynamics of naked mole rats and the interconnectedness of ecosystem health and wildlife conservation. Get ready for a deep dive into veterinary forensics!
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Naba's Mysterious Symptoms
- Naba, a 19-year-old lion, had unusual chewing issues that worsened with weight loss.
- After euthanasia, necropsy revealed a brain lesion and an intestinal tumor explaining her symptoms.
Kudu Brain Damage From Worms
- Stumbling kudu had brain and spinal cord lesions caused by nematode worms.
- Dead worms in the brain cause damaging inflammation, complicating treatment.
Wildlife Interaction Spreads Worms
- The kudu enclosure's proximity to wildlife allowed deer nematodes to enter via slugs or runoff.
- P. tenuous worm affects deer harmlessly but is deadly to kudu brain tissue.