citation_inspection: 96

Five of the 34 primary enclosures for macaques at location 13 had perches added to them for enrichment. These extra perches (each cage had a fixed perch) were hung by four(4) chains. Two(2) chains on one end of the perch were 7 links long and the two on the other end were 13 links long. Each link was approximately one inch in length. One of the perches had been flipped over by the primate so that the chains crossed and created four triangular holes. The triangles on the 13 link side were large enough to accommodate the head of the primate. All four triangles could accommodate an appendage and might cause entrapment if the perch was flipped again. This facility had two primate deaths that appeared to be by strangulation in chains and were confirmed as asphyxiation on necropsy. Both of these deaths were reported to OLAW. The first was closed with them 15 January 2014 and the second was closed with OLAW 26 September 2014. Based on this experience, the facility took measures to remove or redesign chain structures in or on primate cages. Long chains were removed or covered in PVC pipe throughout the facility but the Five(5) perches supported by chains at location 13 were not removed or modified. Primary enclosures for non-human primates must be constructed and maintained in a manner so that they adequately protect the animals from injury. While enrichment is important for the behavioral health of primates, chains that can form loops are known to cause injury to appendages and death by strangulation. Although the facility recognized the ongoing risk of chains, they failed to identify potentially hazardous chains in all housing areas for NHPs. The facility removed all identified potentially hazardous chain devices at the time of inspection. Additionally the facility must ensure that all primary enclosures are maintained in a manner to prevent injury to the animals from this point forward. An exit interview was conducted with facility representatives and the IACUC Chair. Additional Inspectors Mcfadden Gloria, Veterinary Medical Officer