Effects of translocation on hematologic parameters of free-ranging black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli) in Kenya

摘要

Haematological data obtained during routine translocation of 74 free ranging black rhinoceros in Kenya between 1991 and 1995 were examined, and subsets of data from 43 rhinoceros that were translocated to different regions of Kenya were compared. All animals showed an increase in total blood protein. Animals transported for longer periods and to lower altitude zones with higher ambient temperatures and trypanosomiasis developed anaemia and showed neutrophilia, lymphopenia (males) and eosinopenia. The changes in packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin and neutrophils were more marked in females, and the PCV drop was more significant in subadults. The red cell changes were most probably pathological, involving the loss of red cells from circulation through sequestration or haemorrhage. The changes in white cell parameters are consistent with the effect of endogenous corticosteroids as a result of stress. It is suggested that transport and confinement stress might lead to gastric ulceration with haemorrhage. In many animals, exposure to trypanosomes contributes to anaemia.