ABSTRACT
Cetaceans, polar bears (Ursus maritimus), and walrus (Odobenus rosmarus) are hand-reared infrequently, and most information about rearing them is gathered from individual records and case reports. In contrast, pinnipeds, notably harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), Northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris), and California sea lions (Zalophus californianus), are hand-reared more frequently, primarily at marine mammal rehabilitation centers; thus, an abundance of information is available for those species. Hand-rearing for sirenians (manatees and dugongs) and sea otters (Enhydra lutris) is more specialized and done routinely only at a few institutions worldwide. This chapter includes (1) recipe and preparation techniques for species-specific artificial milk formulas, (2) hand-rearing tips, and (3) weaning advice. Because hand-rearing is as much of an art as it is science, it is strongly suggested that anyone undertaking hand-rearing of any marine mammal species for the first time seek advice from colleagues with species-specific experience. This chapter includes practical advice and techniques, specific to each taxon; to assist the reader for quick reference, a list of citations and further reading is included at the end of each taxon section. Also, Box 30.1 lists commercially available products that are indicated in the recipes provided.
