Wildlife Health Program - Biodiversity Research Institute

“Wildlife Health” is more than just the presence or absence of disease—it is the ability of wildlife to thrive in a changing environment. The health and resiliency of wildlife is influenced by many factors such as genetics, physiological capacity, disease status, exposure to environmental threats and pollution, interactions with human populations, and climate change. A broad perspective is needed to understand the interactions of these social and environmental factors when assessing and managing the health of wildlife.

Why Wildlife Health Matters

A healthy environment that includes thriving, resilient wildlife populations is, in turn, fundamental to the health and socioeconomic well being of humans. Environment, wildlife, and human health are interconnected and intimately influence each other. Wildlife is thought to be responsible for many of the emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) around the world. EIDs, introduced diseases, climate change, and pollution continue to impact conservation, public health, and economies. At a time of unprecedented environmental change, safeguarding the health of wildlife is increasingly important.

Consulting Program Director
Tristan Burgess, B.V.Sc., PhD

BRI’s Wildlife Health Program: One Health in Practice

Addressing these emerging issues in wildlife health requires a progressive organization capable of crossing geographic, taxonomic, and disciplinary barriers to implement a “One Health” approach. One Health is the integrative effort of multiple disciplines working together locally, nationally, and globally to attain optimal health for people, animals, and the environment. BRI’s wildlife veterinarians operate at the interface of these three components, collaborating with a wide range of professionals to provide veterinary expertise in support of governmental and non-governmental organizations, universities, and research facilities.