Harvard Lab Investigated in Wake of Primate Deaths
A Harvard primate research lab is under investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, according to The Boston Globe.
The investigation into New England Primate Research Center was triggered last May, when six out of nine cotton-top tamarins sent to the Oregon Zoo died two days after they arrived. The cause of the deaths was undetermined at the time, though may come to light in the course of the current federal investigation.
Harvard Medical School released a statement defending the shipment.
We were deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate event at the Oregon Zoo related to the cotton top tamarins. While we typically do not comment on transports, we feel it is important to share these documents that show the animals arrived at the Oregon Zoo safely and in good condition on Thursday morning, May 22. These documents include the animal health observation log, the USDA 7020 form that acknowledges receipt of animals, and two email exchanges.
The lab did not immdeiately return a call from Boston.com seeking comment Saturday.
The Southborough center faced scrutiny before, following the deaths of four monkeys between 2010-2012. Reports of a dozen more dehydration-related deaths between 1999-2011 have also surfaced.
Harvard Medical School announced in 2013 that the center would wind down operations by 2015 due to budgeting constraints and changes in research goals. Set to close in May, it currently houses 116 animals where it once had more than 2,000.
To see the full report from The Boston Globe, click here.
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