Animal research contributes greatly to medical progress that helps both animals and humans to live longer and healthier lives. Share our information about the important contributions research animals make to life-saving medical breakthroughs. These animals were crucial to the development of vaccines, as well as effective treatments for…
A rhesus macaque mom climbs into a hammock with her infant at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Females reach puberty at around age three, while males are sexually mature by age four. Gestation is five and a half months, with one infant born at a time and often a…
Environmental enrichment is an important part of caring for research animals. Research animals are provided with several types of enrichment to stimulate species-typical behaviors. These juvenile rhesus macaques are enjoying mini marshmallow treats. Interactions with their caregiver give them social and intellectual stimulation, while strengthening their bonds with…
Rhesus monkeys getting treats from their caregiver at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Healthy treats can include peanuts, grapes, apple slices, etc. Positive reinforcement is used to train the monkeys to move to transport boxes. These boxes safely carry monkeys to procedure rooms for blood draws, ultrasounds, TB…
Researchers perform a fetal ultrasound on a pregnant rhesus monkey to study the link between the Zika virus and birth defects. They are trying to learn how, when and where the virus infects the fetus and causes disease. When an adult male is infected, the virus is cleared…
These are common marmosets in the lobby of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Dried fruit, grapes, peanuts and other "pocket treats" are provided by their caretakers. This helps provide enrichment and also facilitates the ability to do health checks and other routine care procedures.
A family of research monkeys enjoy some Halloween pumpkins. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are provided both as nutrition and as enrichment. The monkeys like to break apart the pumpkins and pick out the seeds. It is a delicious and fun treat.