NPR

Tilapia-Skin Bandages Heal Burns On Black Bears Caught In California's Thomas Fire

The younger bear rests in her holding enclosure after her treatment is finished. The outer wrapping on her feet (made of corn husks) will delay her efforts to chew off the tilapia skin bandages underneath. (Karin Higgins/UC Davis)

Two black bears in Southern California have been released back into the wild after they were badly burned in last year’s deadly Thomas Fire. When wildlife officials found them in the Los Padres National Forest, the skin on their feet had been destroyed by third-degree burns. A team of veterinarians used an unorthodox treatment: bandages made of tilapia skin.

Here & Now‘s Peter O’Dowd learns more from , chief of the integrative medicine service at UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
How Much Should I Spend On A Wedding Present? Life Kit's Tips Of The Month
Our April roundup of expert advice includes a nifty negotiation tactic, guidance on how to prevent digital eye strain and why you should travel during 'shoulder season.'
NPR2 min read
Military Families In Hawaii Spark Trial Over 2021 Jet Fuel Leak That Tainted Water
A trial for a mass environmental injury case begins in Hawaii on Monday, more than two years after a U.S. military facility poisoned thousands of people when it leaked jet fuel into drinking water.
NPR6 min read
8 Tracks: Beyond The Grave, Johnny Cash Still Shows Us How To Make Music
A new Johnny Cash song got NPR Music producer Lars Gotrich thinking about music released after a beloved artist dies. Check out "Well Alright," plus new music by Arooj Aftab and Tems on 8 Tracks.

Related Books & Audiobooks