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Habituation and positive reinforcement procedures were successfully used for low stress blood sampling of nyala (Tragelaphus angasi) at the Denver Zoological Gardens.Four adult females and three offspring were conditioned with a food reward, to voluntarily enter a plywood crate for bimonthly blood sampling from the rear leg. Habituated and conditioned, non-sedated nyala could also be given intramuscular injections and be palpated on the udder and abdomen.• Highly palatable sliced yams and carrots were used to train the seven animals to enter the crate and allow a handler to confine each animal in it by closing a remotely controlled, vertically slide gate.• The next step was slow, careful desensitization and habituation of each animal to having its legs and body touched by a person who reached through a small hole in the side of the crate. r The animal was given yam and treats during this procedure. r The solid sides on the crate helped keep the animal calm.Successful blood sampling of an antelope.

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