An innovative approach to wildlife health monitoring is making waves! Veterinarians are using Apple Watches to track the heart rate of sedated lions during medical procedures. This discovery by Dr. Chloe Buiting, an Australian wildlife veterinarian (who goes by “jungle_doctor” on Instagram), highlights the unexpected applications of technology in conservation.
The secret lies in the Apple Watch’s heart rate sensor. By strategically placing the watch on the lion’s tongue (think of a high-tech lollipop!), vets can get real-time readings, ensuring the animal’s safety during anesthesia. This method is particularly valuable because traditional monitoring equipment often isn’t designed for large animals or struggles with fur and scales.
This creative solution isn’t limited to lions. Dr. Buiting also shared success stories using the Apple Watch on elephants,taping it to their ears for accurate readings.
This “off-label” use of the Apple Watch signifies a broader trend: technology bridging the gap for wildlife conservationists. It’s a testament to human ingenuity and a reminder that sometimes, the most effective tools might already be in our pockets.
While Apple hasn’t commented on this innovative use, the story highlights the potential for everyday tech to make a big difference in animal care.
