engleski

Hematological and blood chemistry values of griffon vultures (gyps fulvus) in Croatia.

Background: The Griffon Vulture is one of the largest bird species in the world and the largest bird of prey in Croatia being at considerable risk of extinction. Hematology and blood chemistry values are very useful in determining the general health status of these animals. To rehabilitate individual vultures or to breed and release endangered birds, knowledge of their normal values of blood parameters is essential. Objective: This study aimed to investigate hematological and biochemical parameters in Griffon Vultures in Croatia. Methods: Blood samples of twelve Griffon Vultures (one nestling, nine immature and two adults) were obtained at the Beli Visitor and Rescue Centre for Griffon Vultures on the island of Cres, Croatia. In collected blood, complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry panel were analysed. Results: There was a considerable range in the values of some parameters, including the total WBC (3.21-9.54 x 103/μl), eosinophils (0.04– 0.67 x 103/μl) and lymphocytes (0.06–0.95 x 103/μl). Furthermore, a wide renges of glucose (10.69– 20.26 mmol/L), total proteins (32–55 g/L), ALT (17–55 U/L), ALP (62–350 U/L), CK (187–823 U/L) and LDH (191–1111 U/L) were obtained. Conclusions: The results of this study provide essential data that could be useful for evaluating the general health and pathologic conditions of these birds of prey. However, further studies are still needed to asess the physiological range of blood parameters in Griffon Vulture population in Croatia.

griffon vultures, hematology, biochemistry, wildlife conservation

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