engleski

VARIATION IN COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS IN GRIFFON VULTURE UPON ADMISSION TO THE RESCUE CENTRE FOR GRIFFON VULTURE ON THE ISLAND CRES IN CROATIA

Griffon vultures (GF) play important roles in food chain in the maintaining of the whole ecosystem. However, their population is endangered being on the threshold of extinction. Laboratory and field investigations are crucial for their rehabilitation and preservation. This study aimed to investigate variation in complete blood count (CBC) and biochemical parameters in GF upon admission to the Rescue Centre for Griffon Vulture on the island Cres in Croatia. Blood samples were obtained from 36 GF (12 female, 16 males, 8 not determined ; one nestling, 25 immature, 1 adult and 9 not determined) upon the admission to the Rescue Centre. In collected samples, CBC and biochemical parameters were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using statistical software IBM SPSS Statistics 21® (IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, USA). Significant differences in the means of some haematological parameters were found compared to the literature data, e.i. PCV, haemoglobin, MCV, MCH, MCHC, total WBC and a differential blood count. Particularly, decreased lymphocyte count could be a consequence of endogenous glucocorticoid release due to stressful conditions upon arrival to the centre. Monocytosis in our birds might suggest inflammatory response. Higher relative eosinophil and basophil counts in our population could point out to immune response. Additionally, there was an increase in polychromatophils in two immature vultures indicating regenerative anaemia. Significant differences in the means of glucose, total proteins, albumin, triglyceride, calcium, urea, creatinine, ALT and AST were observed as well. Increased AST and ALT in almost all birds may be due to muscle injury during falling from cliffs or manipulation. Obtained results showed variation in some laboratory parameters suggesting alteration in physiological condition and health status. Our results will benefit understanding of pathophysiological variations of blood parameters, facilitating better preservation of this species.

griffon vulture, complete blood count, blood cell morphology, blood biochemistry, species preservation

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