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Radical A, Normando S, Ponzio P, Bono L, Macchi E. The effects of the addition of two environmental enrichments on the behavior and fecal cortisol levels of three small felids species (Caracal caracal, Leptailurus serval, Leopardus pardalis) in captivity. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Vaz J, Bartley A, Hunt J. Personality matters: exploring the relationship between personality and stress physiology in captive African lions. BMC ZOOL 2022; 7:30. [PMID: 37170353 PMCID: PMC10127340 DOI: 10.1186/s40850-022-00126-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Considering animals as individuals and not as species is becoming increasingly essential to animal welfare management in captive settings. Recent studies on big cat personalities and coping strategies suggest personality can help big cats cope in their surroundings. Yet a large portion of the published literature focuses on understanding either the personality or stress physiology of big cats. Our research shows how integrating an improved understanding of the personality of big cats with stress physiology may enhance welfare, especially for endangered species like African lions. By using a wild cat personality checklist, this study compared the key personality dimensions of 22 African lions with its faecal glucocorticoids and assessed factors influencing their personality and stress physiology.
Results
We found two reliable personality dimensions for African lions (dominance and agreeableness) and identified key factors (sex, age and location) that may influence their personality. Further, on testing if these factors influenced the stress physiology through variations in glucocorticoid levels, there was no significant difference. However, there was a strong negative association between agreeableness and glucocorticoid levels. These results suggest that the behavioural traits loading positively and higher for agreeableness are associated with lower glucocorticoid stress levels, which may assist a lion to cope with stressors in its surroundings.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight this integrated approach of linking personality and stress physiology of big cats can be beneficial for caretakers. For example, during stressful veterinary procedures or in reintroduction programs, recognizing the personality of lions can help in designing or providing them with resources that will alleviate stress. Thus, there is a need for more interdisciplinary approaches that will contribute towards enhancing the individual and overall welfare of big cats.
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Fecteau KA, Giori L, Cushing A, Price JM, Zhu X. Comparison of steroid and thyroid hormone concentrations in blood serum and plasma of captive tigers. J Vet Diagn Invest 2022; 34:547-551. [PMID: 35404190 PMCID: PMC9254055 DOI: 10.1177/10406387221090538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of steroid and thyroid hormones is often performed in blood serum. Occasionally though, plasma samples are submitted in lieu of serum for exotic species such as tigers. However, blood tube anticoagulants may affect hormone values. We compared serum and heparin plasma results for 7 hormones in tigers. Serum and plasma samples were collected from 25 tigers and analyzed for progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, cortisol, androstenedione, testosterone, estradiol, and thyroxine. Using Lin concordance correlation, serum and heparin plasma measures agreed for all hormones except cortisol. However, Passing–Bablok regression only found agreement between serum and heparin plasma measures for androstenedione, testosterone, and estradiol. Median values between the 2 sample types were significantly ( p < 0.05) different for progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, cortisol, and thyroxine. Our results suggest that, for the aforementioned hormones, serum and heparin plasma values may not always be comparable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie A. Fecteau
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Luca Giori
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Andrew Cushing
- Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Joshua M. Price
- College of Veterinary Medicine, and Office of Information Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Xiaojuan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, and Office of Information Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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4
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Vaz J, McElligott AG, Narayan E. Linking the roles of personality and stress physiology for managing the welfare of captive big cats. Anim Welf 2022. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.31.1.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Animal welfare is important for the humane treatment of animals under our care. Zoos and rescue centres manage various charismatic animals, such as big cats, with limited resources. It is therefore essential for caretakers to understand the needs of an individual big cat to ensure its
welfare. However, these needs may differ due to a big cat's personality, which may be identified by its coping style in a stressful situation. In addition, stress is one of the major factors affecting animal welfare. There is limited evidence showing strong associations between personality
and stress physiology in big cats. This review focuses on the integration of personality and stress physiology of captive big cats, to highlight possible improvements in their husbandry. Our review identifies key factors that may influence big cat responses to stressors. These influencing
factors include: i) social interactions; ii) environment; iii) life history and evolutionary traits; iv) genetics; and v) health. The first two factors are relatively well covered in the literature; however, the final three are potentially very promising avenues for future research to better
understand how we can improve big cat welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Vaz
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith 2751, NSW, Australia
| | - AG McElligott
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - E Narayan
- Centre for Animal Health and Welfare, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Jepsen EM, Scheun J, Dehnhard M, Kumar V, Umapathy G, Ganswindt A. Non-invasive monitoring of glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in native Indian, as well as captive and re-wilded tigers in South Africa. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 308:113783. [PMID: 33862051 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2021.113783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Over the last century, wild tiger (Panthera tigris) numbers have declined from over 100 000 individuals to fewer than 4 000, with animals now confined to less than 5% of their historic range due to habitat loss, persecution, inadequate management, and poaching. In contrast, 15 000-20 000 tigers are estimated to be housed in captivity, experiencing conditions vastly different than their wild counterparts. A total of 280 tigers are currently held at 44 different facilities within South Africa, including zoos, semi-captive 're-wilded' populations, and pets; these animals provide a unique opportunity to measure the impact of extrinsic factors, found in exotic habitats, on the adrenocortical activity of tigers. By monitoring and comparing stress-related faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations of tigers housed at different locations, and free ranging tigers in natural tiger reserves, this project aimed to get a better understanding of the impact of extrinsic factors on adrenocortical function as a measure of stress. The results of this study showed no significant difference in fGCM concentrations between captive, re-wilded, and free-ranging tigers with the exception of one site. Furthermore, factors such as sex and season were not significant drivers of fGCM concentrations. One study group had elevated fGCM concentrations, showing population variation in the stress response. This indicates that populations are able to cope with exotic environments, however, as population-specific differences in the stress response exist, we suggest management protocols be created for each population. This study offered the unique opportunity to see how well tigers are faring outside of their native range and if having re-wilded tigers in exotic locations is a potential welfare-acceptable management option for tiger conservation globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Jepsen
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Juan Scheun
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, South Africa; National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, South Africa
| | - Martin Dehnhard
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Govindhaswamy Umapathy
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad, India
| | - André Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Pretoria, South Africa
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Weaver SJ, Hynd PI, Ralph CR, Hocking Edwards JE, Burnard CL, Narayan E, Tilbrook AJ. Chronic elevation of plasma cortisol causes differential expression of predominating glucocorticoid in plasma, saliva, fecal, and wool matrices in sheep. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106503. [PMID: 32846373 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing interest in using nonblood measures of glucocorticoids to assess the physiological response to chronic stress conditions. In sheep, cortisol has been measured in various matrices including saliva, feces, and wool, but comprehensive studies of the relationship between plasma concentrations of cortisol and concentrations in these nonblood matrices are lacking. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that administration of cortisol to sheep would result in elevated concentrations of cortisol in blood, saliva, feces, and wool. Merino ewes were administered with saline or 2 mg/kg BW/d hydrocortisone acetate (HCA) by intramuscular (i.m.) injection for 28 d. This treatment was imposed to mimic circulating cortisol concentrations experienced during periods of chronic stress. Cortisol and cortisone were directly measured in plasma, saliva, and wool before, during, and after treatment with saline or HCA. A 14-d pre-treatment and a 14-d post-treatment period were used to measure time taken for glucocorticoid concentrations in each of the matrices to return to baseline levels. Cortisol was also measured in feces before, during, and after treatment. Wool growth was also measured. Before treatment, there was no difference in the concentration of cortisol or cortisone in plasma, saliva, feces, or wool in animals treated with saline or HCA. In contrast, treatment with HCA increased (P < 0.05) concentrations of both cortisol and cortisone in plasma, saliva, and wool and of cortisol in feces. In plasma, cortisol concentrations were higher than cortisone (P < 0.05), whereas saliva cortisol and cortisone concentrations did not differ significantly. In wool, the concentration of cortisone was about 19-fold higher than that of cortisol during treatment and post-treatment periods. Treatment with HCA inhibited wool growth. These results demonstrate that an increase in glucocorticoids in the blood of sheep is reflected in increases in saliva (after 7 d of treatment), feces (21 d), and wool (14 d). Therefore, measures of glucocorticoids in these matrices may provide a measure of activation of the adrenal glands over time in sheep, thereby providing a retrospective indicator of chronic stress. With respect to wool, it appears that cortisol is predominantly metabolized to cortisone in the skin or wool follicle and is stored as cortisone. Therefore wool cortisone may also provide an important measure in quantifiying chronic stress in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Weaver
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371.
| | - P I Hynd
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371
| | - C R Ralph
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371; South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371
| | - J E Hocking Edwards
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Struan Research Centre, Naracoorte, South Australia, Australia 5271
| | - C L Burnard
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371
| | - E Narayan
- School of Health and Science, Western Sydney University, Richmond, New South Wales, Australia 2753
| | - A J Tilbrook
- South Australian Research and Development Institute, Roseworthy, South Australia, Australia 5371
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Clayton M, Shrock T. Making a Tiger's Day: Free-Operant Assessment and Environmental Enrichment to Improve the Daily Lives of Captive Bengal Tigers ( Panthera tigris tigris). Behav Anal Pract 2020; 13:883-893. [PMID: 33269198 DOI: 10.1007/s40617-020-00478-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There are more captive tigers in the United States than there are wild tigers in the entire world. Many animals under human care engage in problem behaviors such as excessive grooming and aggression, although the origin of these behaviors is typically unknown. Environmental enrichment may mitigate these issues in captive animals of all kinds. In order to individualize enrichment experiences, the current study used a free-operant assessment procedure to establish a menu of most preferred play items and scents among 7 Bengal tigers (Panthera tigris tigris) housed at a sanctuary in southwest Missouri. Each tiger was tested 3 times with scents (cinnamon and Calvin Klein Obsession perfume) and play items (boxes, balls, leaves, and pumpkins). The importance of rigorous assessment of presumed reinforcers among captive wild animals, as well as the difficulty of effectively assessing tigers while ensuring the safety of both the participants and researchers, is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Clayton
- Department of Psychology, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897 USA
| | - Trista Shrock
- Department of Psychology, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897 USA
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Scherpenhuizen JM, Narayan EJ, Quinn JC. Timed environmental exposure indicates sample stability for reliable noninvasive measurement of fecal cortisol metabolite concentrations in sheep. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2020; 72:106423. [PMID: 32272317 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2019.106423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The use of noninvasive techniques to evaluate stress responses in animals has become an increasingly popular method of animal welfare assessment in both production animals and wildlife. In particular, using fecal samples to measure fecal cortisol metabolites (FCMs) as a quantitative measure has proven ideal as samples can be collected remote to the animal after defecation without the need for invasive procedures. Colorimetric enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) have been shown to have a high level of selectivity and sensitivity for FCM concentration analysis, equivalent to the traditionally used radioimmunoassay. Regardless of the assay system used, species- and sample-specific validation must be undertaken to ensure the reliability of results, particularly where sampling is undertaken in a novel species or where environmental conditions might impact FCM stability in the fecal sample. To determine the limit of environmental exposure acceptable for analysis of FCM concentrations in ovine scat samples collected from a paddock under conditions of stable heat and humidity, this study quantified FCMs in ovine feces shortly after defecation (2-7 h) and after timed environmental exposure (1-9 d). Samples were determined to show stable FCM concentrations for up to 5 d by this analysis. Understanding the impacts of environmental exposure, and therefore the viability of remote fecal collection methods for quantitative analysis of FCM by EIA, is important to assess the utility of noninvasive measures of endocrine status in animals where the exact timing of defecation may not be known.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Scherpenhuizen
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (Charles Sturt University and NSW Department of Primary Industries), Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2560, Australia.
| | - E J Narayan
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia
| | - J C Quinn
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (Charles Sturt University and NSW Department of Primary Industries), Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2560, Australia
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The Effect of Behind-The-Scenes Encounters and Interactive Presentations on the Welfare of Captive Servals ( Leptailurus serval). Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040743. [PMID: 32344609 PMCID: PMC7222754 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Live animal encounter programs are an increasingly popular occurrence in the modern zoo. The effects of such encounters on program animal welfare have not been studied extensively to date. The aim of this study was, therefore, to explore animal welfare effects associated with encounter programs in a small felid, the serval, which is commonly involved as a program animal in zoos. Specifically, this study investigated how serval behaviour and adrenocortical activity (level of faecal cortisol metabolites) were affected by short-term variations in encounter frequency. Over the course of the study, the frequency of encounters was manipulated so that servals alternated between four different treatments, involving interactive presentations, behind-the-scenes encounters, both activities combined, or no interaction at all. The cats exhibited a significant reduction in stereotypic pacing on weeks when participating in interactive presentations, or the two activities combined. However, behavioural diversity (total number of behaviours exhibited) was strongly reduced on weeks when cats participated in both activities. Adrenocortical activity did not vary significantly between treatments. The reduction in stereotypic pacing suggests that involvement in an encounter program may exert a positive short-term welfare effect on the individual servals. A reduction in behavioural diversity, which was not considered a negative welfare effect in the short term, may, however, warrant some need for caution if a more frequent encounter program was to be implemented long-term. These findings contribute to the current knowledge of visitor–animal interaction in zoo-housed felids, which is very limited to date, and could also provide valuable guidance to zoo professionals that are currently engaging in an encounter program with servals or planning on implementing such a program in the future. Abstract The serval (Leptailurus serval) is a small African felid that is well represented in zoos and often serves as an animal ambassador in encounter programs with zoo visitors. The impact on serval welfare in relation to such programs has not been investigated to date, and the aim of this study was to assess short-term welfare effects of varying levels of visitor interaction in two captive servals. Weekly blocks of four different treatments were imposed three times on each animal over 12 weeks, and the treatments involved (1) Presentations (serval undertaking a routine training session in a designated presentation space, typically attracting high visitor numbers), (2) Behind-the-scenes (BTS, a close encounter allowing a small group of visitors to interact closely with the cat in its enclosure), (3) Presentations and BTS combined, and (4) No visitor interaction. Serval activity budgets as well as behavioural diversity were created from behaviours observed from Close Circuit Television (CCTV) footage during four daily recording sessions per animal over three consecutive days per treatment, using instantaneous scan sampling every 60 s. Individual faecal samples were collected daily to monitor changes in faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (FGM) concentration. Results indicate that the mean number of scans with stereotypic pacing was significantly reduced (p = 0.01) during Treatments 1 and 3, when cats participated in presentations only, or the two activities combined. Conversely, a significant reduction in behavioural diversity (p < 0.001) was observed when cats participated in Treatment 3, i.e., cats expressed fewer behaviours when interaction with visitors was more frequent. FGM concentrations did not vary significantly with treatment (p > 0.05). Given the reduction in stereotypic pacing, these findings suggest that involvement in an encounter program appears to exert an overall positive short-term welfare effect on the individual servals in this study. Although a reduction in behavioural diversity was not considered a negative welfare effect in the short term, potential long-term negative welfare effects resulting from a more frequent encounter program could not be ruled out in the present study.
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Proverbio D, Perego R, Baggiani L, Ravasio G, Giambellini D, Spada E. Serum Protein Gel Agarose Electrophoresis in Captive Tigers. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:E716. [PMID: 32325948 PMCID: PMC7222745 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the endangered status of tigers (Panthera tigris), the health of each individual is important and any data on blood chemistry values can provide valuable information alongside the assessment of physical condition. The nature of tigers in the wild makes it is extremely difficult to obtain biological samples from free-living subjects, therefore the values obtained from captive tigers provide very useful data. Serum protein electrophoresis is a useful tool in the diagnosis and monitoring of a number of diseases. In this study, we evaluated agarose gel serum protein electrophoresis on samples from 11 healthy captive tigers. Serum electrophoresis on all 11 tiger samples successfully separated proteins into albumin, α1, α2, β1, β2 and γ globulin fractions as in other mammals. Electrophoretic patterns were comparable in all tigers. Mean± standard deviation or median and range values obtained for each protein fraction in healthy tigers were, respectively: 3.6 ± 0.2, 0.21 (0.2-0.23), 1.2 ± 0.2, 10.7 ± 0.2, 0.4 (0.3-0.6), 1.2 (1-1.8) gr/dL. The results of this preliminary study provide the first data on serum electrophoretic patterns in tigers and may be a useful diagnostic tool in the health assessment of this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Proverbio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Roberta Perego
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | - Giuliano Ravasio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
| | | | - Eva Spada
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (DIMEVET), University of Milan, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (L.B.); (G.R.); (E.S.)
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Seltmann MW, Ukonaho S, Reichert S, Dos Santos D, Nyein UK, Htut W, Lummaa V. Faecal Glucocorticoid Metabolites and H/L Ratio are Related Markers of Stress in Semi-Captive Asian Timber Elephants. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10010094. [PMID: 31935980 PMCID: PMC7023510 DOI: 10.3390/ani10010094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animals are kept in captivity for various reasons worldwide. Throughout its range countries, the Asian elephant is used for various purposes, with a significant proportion of the remaining population working as draft and transport animals in the timber industry. However, captivity can also lead to compromises in welfare that need to be quantified for successful intervention. A key way of assessing an animal’s well-being in wildlife and zoo biology is to measure its stress. Previous studies have found positive, negative, or no relationship between two commonly used measures of stress: stress hormones and the ratio of two types of white blood cells—heterophils to lymphocytes. Our study is one of the first to show a positive and consistent link between these two measures in semi-captive Asian elephants from Myanmar, irrespective of sex, age, or environmental context. Our results show that using the heterophil/lymphocyte ratio from blood smears on-site may offer a potentially cheaper and faster way to determine stress than measuring faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in the laboratory. Abstract Animals are kept in captivity for various reasons, but species with a slower pace of life may adapt to captive environments less easily, leading to welfare concerns and the need to assess stress reliably in order to develop effective interventions. Our aim was to assess welfare of semi-captive timber elephants from Myanmar by investigating the relationship between two physiological markers of stress commonly used as proxies for welfare, faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations (FGM) and heterophil/lymphocyte ratios (H/L), and link these measures to changes in body condition (determined by body weight). We further assessed how robustly these two markers of stress performed in animals of different age or sex, or in different ecological contexts. We measured FGM concentrations and H/L ratios between 2016 and 2018 from 316 samples of 75 females and 49 males ranging in age from 4 to 68. We found a positive and consistent link between FGMs and H/L ratios in Asian elephants, irrespective of their sex, age, or ecological context. Our results will help to inform managers of (semi-) captive elephants about using heterophil/lymphocyte ratio data from blood smears on site as a potentially cheaper and faster alternative to determining stress than measuring faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in the laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin W. Seltmann
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland; (S.U.); (S.R.); (D.D.S.); (V.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Susanna Ukonaho
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland; (S.U.); (S.R.); (D.D.S.); (V.L.)
| | - Sophie Reichert
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland; (S.U.); (S.R.); (D.D.S.); (V.L.)
| | - Diogo Dos Santos
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland; (S.U.); (S.R.); (D.D.S.); (V.L.)
| | - U Kyaw Nyein
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Gyogone Forest Compound, Bayint Naung Road, Insein Township, Yangon, Myanmar; (U.K.N.); (W.H.)
| | - Win Htut
- Myanma Timber Enterprise, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Conservation, Gyogone Forest Compound, Bayint Naung Road, Insein Township, Yangon, Myanmar; (U.K.N.); (W.H.)
| | - Virpi Lummaa
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, FIN-20014 Turku, Finland; (S.U.); (S.R.); (D.D.S.); (V.L.)
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12
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Franchini M, Prandi A, Filacorda S, Pezzin EN, Fanin Y, Comin A. Cortisol in hair: a comparison between wild and feral cats in the north-eastern Alps. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-019-1330-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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13
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Krone O, Bailey LD, Jähnig S, Lauth T, Dehnhard M. Monitoring corticoid metabolites in urine of white-tailed sea eagles: Negative effects of road proximity on breeding pairs. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 283:113223. [PMID: 31323229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.113223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The white-tailed sea eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) is known to be sensitive to disturbance. To better understand potential stressors, we measured corticosterone metabolite levels in H. albicilla excreta and recorded the nest success of breeding pairs. We tested the ability of four enzyme immunoassays (EIA) to measure urinary glucocorticoid metabolites (uGM) in the excreta of one adult female eagle subjected to a controlled physiological stress treatment. We identified corticosterone-21-HS to be the most sensitive EIA to changes in uGM concentration. To exclude a sex bias, we confirmed the assay's applicability with samples collected from similar stress treatments in two juvenile males. We used the identified EIA to measure uGM in wild breeding pairs and tested effects of disturbance. Breeding pairs nesting closer to roads and paths had higher uGM concentrations (p = 0.02), which is likely an effect of human recreational activity and disturbance. There was no difference in uGM concentrations between failed and successful nests. Our results highlight the potential impact of road and path proximity on white-tailed sea eagles, with potential importance for species management and conservation, particularly with respect to nest protection zone legislation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Krone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Liam D Bailey
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Jähnig
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Martin Dehnhard
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Strasse 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany
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Tyagi A, Kumar V, Kittur S, Reddy M, Naidenko S, Ganswindt A, Umapathy G. Physiological stress responses of tigers due to anthropogenic disturbance especially tourism in two central Indian tiger reserves. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz045. [PMID: 31321036 PMCID: PMC6626984 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Tigers continue to face unprecedented threats to their existence due to poaching, habitat loss, habitat fragmentation and anthropogenic disturbances. The present study examines the physiological stress response of tigers due to anthropogenic activities including wildlife tourism in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and Kanha Tiger Reserve using faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) measurement. We collected a total of 341 faecal samples from both reserves during tourism and non-tourism periods. Data on various anthropogenic disturbances including tourism activities like number of vehicles and visitors were also collected. We ascertained the species identity and sex of all the samples collected using genetic markers. fGCMs were extracted using a previously reported procedure, and fGCM concentrations were subsequently determined using an established enzyme immunoassay. There was no significant difference in overall mean fGCM concentrations between the two tiger reserves, but within each reserve, concentrations were significantly higher in tigers during the tourism period as compared to the non-tourism period. We also found that the number of tourist vehicles and disturbance level significantly correlated with fGCM concentrations. This study further supports the assumption that unbridled tourism associated with high anthropogenic disturbance can be related to perceived stress and consequently may have an impact on the reproductive fitness of tigers and long-term survival of isolated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Tyagi
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sagar Kittur
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Mahender Reddy
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Sergey Naidenko
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Leninsky, pr. 33, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andre Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield, South Africa
| | - Govindhaswamy Umapathy
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research—Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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15
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Zito S, Walker J, Gates MC, Dale A. A Preliminary Description of Companion Cat, Managed Stray Cat, and Unmanaged Stray Cat Welfare in Auckland, New Zealand Using a 5-Component Assessment Scale. Front Vet Sci 2019; 6:40. [PMID: 30854376 PMCID: PMC6396406 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2019.00040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-roaming cats are a polarizing issue in New Zealand and there is strong need for a comprehensive evaluation of their welfare to better inform population management decisions. In this study, a 5-component visual health-related welfare assessment scale was developed and piloted on a convenience sample of 213 free-roaming companion cats (CC), 210 managed stray cats (MS), and 253 unmanaged stray cats (UMS) from various locations in Auckland, New Zealand. The welfare assessment was performed through distance observation and consisted of body condition score (BCS); coat condition score; nose and eye discharge score; ear crusting score; and injury score. The majority of cats in all groups appeared generally healthy with no nose or eye discharge, ear crusting, or injuries. Although there were no appreciable differences in the apparent welfare of CC and MS cats, future studies with more robust sampling designs are needed to draw accurate inferences. The scale also requires further validation by comparing the visual observations against more detailed physical examination and biochemical data. Nonetheless, the results from this study provide preliminary information about assessing the health and welfare of stray cats as well as considerations for developing and implementing robust assessment scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Zito
- Animal Welfare Science and Education Department, Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jessica Walker
- New Zealand Companion Animal Council, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - M Carolyn Gates
- School of Veterinary Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Arnja Dale
- Animal Welfare Science and Education Department, Royal New Zealand Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty, Auckland, New Zealand
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16
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Le Roux A, Botha H, Dalerum F, Ganswindt A. Non-invasive measurement of adrenocortical activity in a myrmecophageous mammal, the bat-eared fox. AFRICAN ZOOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/15627020.2016.1145071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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17
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Parnell T, Narayan EJ, Nicolson V, Martin-Vegue P, Mucci A, Hero JM. Maximizing the reliability of non-invasive endocrine sampling in the tiger (Panthera tigris): environmental decay and intra-sample variation in faecal glucocorticoid metabolites. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2015; 3:cov053. [PMID: 27293737 PMCID: PMC4778480 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cov053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Evaluation of physiological stress in the tiger (Panthera tigris) using faecal cortisol metabolite (FCM) enzyme immunoassays (EIAs) provides a powerful conservation physiology tool for the species. However, it is important to validate non-invasive endocrine sampling techniques in field conditions to ensure that the method provides a reliable parameter of physiological stress in the species. This is because endocrine measurements are highly species specific and FCM concentrations can be influenced by environmental factors. Here, we studied the impact of the decay rate of FCMs and intra-sample variation of FCMs using a previously validated EIA. To determine the decay rate of FCMs, we measured FCMs in freshly deposited tiger faeces (n = 8 tigers and 48 scats) that were randomly exposed to the natural environment (dry conditions with no rainfall) for up to 192 h. To determine intra-sample variation in FCMs, we used 10 scats from 10 tigers, divided each sample into four sections and each section into four sub-sections and measured FCMs in each section and sub-section. The results of this decay-rate experiment showed that FCMs in tiger faeces began to decay after 48 h exposure to the environmental conditions available. Thus, FCMs within freshly deposited tiger faeces are influenced by available environmental conditions. Changes in weather conditions (e.g. increased rainfall and humidity) could influence the stability of FCMs. The results of the intra-sample variation study showed that inter-variation among scats accounted for 52% of the variations in FCMs, while intra-sample variation between sections (32%) was greater than the sub-sample variation (16%). Intra-sample variation can be reduced by homogenizing the entire lyophilized faecal sample prior to the EIA. In conclusion, careful evaluation of decay rate and complete homogenization of faeces prior to EIA analysis will increase the reliability of FCMs as a non-invasive index of physiological stress in the tiger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tempe Parnell
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Edward J. Narayan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation & School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Vere Nicolson
- Life Sciences, Dreamworld, Parkway Coomera, Queensland 4209, Australia
| | | | - Al Mucci
- Life Sciences, Dreamworld, Parkway Coomera, Queensland 4209, Australia
| | - Jean-Marc Hero
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
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18
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Bhattacharjee S, Kumar V, Chandrasekhar M, Malviya M, Ganswindt A, Ramesh K, Sankar K, Umapathy G. Glucocorticoid Stress Responses of Reintroduced Tigers in Relation to Anthropogenic Disturbance in Sariska Tiger Reserve in India. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127626. [PMID: 26061171 PMCID: PMC4465644 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tiger (Panthera tigris), an endangered species, is under severe threat from poaching, habitat loss, prey depletion and habitat disturbance. Such factors have been reported causing local extermination of tiger populations including in one of the most important reserves in India, namely Sariska Tiger Reserve (STR) in northwestern India. Consequently, tigers were reintroduced in STR between 2008 and 2010, but inadequate breeding success was observed over the years, thus invoking an investigation to ascertain physiological correlates. In the present study, we report glucocorticoid stress responses of the reintroduced tigers in relation to anthropogenic disturbance in the STR from 2011 to 2013. We found anthropogenic disturbance such as encounter rates of livestock and humans, distance to roads and efforts to kill domestic livestock associated with an elevation in fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations in the monitored tigers. In this regard, female tigers seem more sensitive to such disturbance than males. It was possible to discern that tiger’s fGCM levels were significantly positively related to the time spent in disturbed areas. Resulting management recommendations include relocation of villages from core areas and restriction of all anthropogenic activities in the entire STR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vinod Kumar
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES), CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Mithileshwari Chandrasekhar
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES), CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
| | - Manjari Malviya
- Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Andre Ganswindt
- Endocrine Research Laboratory, Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | | | | | - Govindhaswamy Umapathy
- Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES), CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, India
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Parnell T, Narayan EJ, Magrath MJL, Roe S, Clark G, Nicolson V, Martin-Vegue P, Mucci A, Hero JM. Evaluating physiological stress in Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris ssp. sumatrae) managed in Australian zoos. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 2:cou038. [PMID: 27293659 PMCID: PMC4732480 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cou038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 07/27/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoid quantification using non-invasive methods provides a powerful tool for assessing the health and welfare of wildlife in zoo-based programmes. In this study, we provide baseline data on faecal-based glucocorticoid (cortisol) monitoring of Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigris ssp. sumatrae) managed at the Melbourne Zoo in Victoria, Australia. We sampled five tigers daily for 60 days. Faecal cortisol metabolites (FCMs) in tiger faecal extracts were quantified using enzyme immunoassays that were successfully validated using parallelism and accuracy recovery checks. Two female tigers had significantly higher mean FCM levels than the two males and another female, suggesting that females may have higher FCM levels. A significant elevation was noted in the FCM levels for one female 2 days after she was darted and anaesthetized; however, the FCM levels returned to baseline levels within 3 days after the event. Comparative analysis of FCM levels of tigers sampled at Melbourne Zoo with tigers sampled earlier at two other Australian Zoos (Dreamworld Themepark and Australia Zoo) showed that FCM levels varied between zoos. Differences in the enclosure characteristics, timing of sampling, size and composition of groupings and training procedures could all contribute to this variation. Overall, we recommend the use of non-invasive sampling for the assessment of adrenocortical activity of felids managed in zoos in Australia and internationally in order to improve the welfare of these charismatic big cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tempe Parnell
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Edward J. Narayan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
| | - Michael J. L. Magrath
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, PO Box 74, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Sheila Roe
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, PO Box 74, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Giles Clark
- Australia Zoo, Steve Irwin Way, Beerwah, Queensland 4519, Australia
| | - Vere Nicolson
- Dreamworld, Parkway Coomera, Queensland 4209, Australia
| | | | - Al Mucci
- Dreamworld, Parkway Coomera, Queensland 4209, Australia
| | - Jean-Marc Hero
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment, Griffith University, Gold Coast campus, Queensland 4222, Australia
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20
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Hing S, Narayan E, Thompson RCA, Godfrey S. A review of factors influencing the stress response in Australian marsupials. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 2:cou027. [PMID: 27293648 PMCID: PMC4732483 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/cou027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Many Australian marsupials are threatened species. In order to manage in situ and ex situ populations effectively, it is important to understand how marsupials respond to threats. Stress physiology (the study of the response of animals to challenging stimuli), a key approach in conservation physiology, can be used to characterize the physiological response of wildlife to threats. We reviewed the literature on the measurement of glucocorticoids (GCs), endocrine indicators of stress, in order to understand the stress response to conservation-relevant stressors in Australian marsupials and identified 29 studies. These studies employed a range of methods to measure GCs, with faecal glucocorticoid metabolite enzyme immunoassay being the most common method. The main stressors considered in studies of marsupials were capture and handling. To date, the benefits of stress physiology have yet to be harnessed fully in marsupial conservation. Despite a theoretical base dating back to the 1960s, GCs have only been used to understand how 21 of the 142 extant species of Australian marsupial respond to stressors. These studies include merely six of the 60 marsupial species of conservation concern (IUCN Near Threatened to Critically Endangered). Furthermore, the fitness consequences of stress for Australian marsupials are rarely examined. Individual and species differences in the physiological stress response also require further investigation, because significant species-specific variations in GC levels in response to stressors can shed light on why some individuals or species are more vulnerable to stress factors while others appear more resilient. This review summarizes trends, knowledge gaps and future research directions for stress physiology research in Australian marsupial conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Hing
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Edward Narayan
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, Griffith School of Environment, Griffith University, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - R. C. Andrew Thompson
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Stephanie Godfrey
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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21
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Narayan EJ, Evans N, Hero JM. Monitoring physiological stress in semi-free ranging populations of an endangered Australian marsupial, the Greater Bilby (Macrotis lagotis). EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-014-0842-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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