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Serum biochemical and hematological values in Griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus) before and after rehabilitation at the Beli Visitor and Rescue Centre, Cres, Croatia

The Griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus) is endangered and the largest bird of prey in Croatia being at considerable risk of extinction. Hematology and blood chemistry values are important diagnostic tools providing useful information on the general health and pathological conditions of the individuals. In order to asses health status and pathological conditions of individual vultures, knowledge of their normal range of blood parameters is essential.The aim of this study was to evaluate blood parameters of Griffon vultures before and after rehabilitation. Four Griffon vultures (three immature and one adult) admitted to the Beli Visitor and Rescue Centre for Griffon Vultures were included in the study. After the clinical examination, blood samples were collected twice, immediately upon arrival and after rehabilitation. In collected samples, complete blood count (CBC) and serum biochemical profiles (GLU, total protein, albumin, globulins, TG, CHOL, BIL, urea, creatinine, Ca, AST, ALT, ALP, CK and LDH) were analysed. Upon arrival, two birds had lower PCV (23 and 30%, respectively) than after rehabilitation (both birds 48%). Two birds had lower glucose level upon arrival (13.51 and 13.79 mmol/L) than after rehabilitation (17.4 and 19.89 mmol/L). One bird had higher urea concentration upon arrival (5.1 mmol/L) then after rehabilitation (0.9 mmol/L). Additionaly, there were significant variation in enzyme ALT, AST, ALP, CK and LDH activities in several birds upon arrival than after rehabilitation. Upon arrival we found a considerable variation in some parameters suggesting pathological conditions in some individuals. However, after rehabilitation, majority of parameters were within the reference range indicating a proper treatment and care of the animals. Since data of hematology and blood chemistry baseline values of Griffon Vultures are still scarce, our results contribute to better evaluation of health status and pathological conditions in this endangered species.

griffon vultures, hematology, biochemistry, wildlife conservation

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