Kangaroo Island: pioneering research examines health of sea lions - in pictures

For the first time, a colony of sea lions in Australia is being treated with a topical anti-parasitic and monitored for health and survival. The research, led by Dr Rachael Gray, from the School of Veterinary Science at the University of Sydney, is investigating the effects of hookworm, environmental pollutants and human-associated bacteria on the mortality of sea lions in the first 18 months of their lives. Photographer Louise Cooper accompanied the team as they set up the trial on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. 'Populations will continue to decline if we don't do something to save these charismatic and iconic marine mammals,' says Gray. Continue reading...