Which of the following can help the technologist observe the pups without disturbing the mother?

• A. Use UV light instead of regular lighting.
• B. Use clear nesting boxes.
• C. Remove all bedding.
• D. Remove the mother from the cages while observing the pups.

Answer: (B)

Observing newborns without disturbing the dam is best achieved with a transparent nesting box. The clear walls let you monitor the pups and their growth without opening the cage or handling them, so the mother can continue nursing, keeping the pups warm, and maintaining normal nesting behavior. This setup minimizes stress for both the dam and the pups while still allowing safe and effective observation.

Using UV light isn’t necessary for visibility and can stress animals or alter behavior. Removing all bedding exposes pups to cold, drafts, and injury risk, and disrupting or removing the mother from the enclosure disrupts care and can harm the pups’ survival.