The Effect of Mixing and Translocating Juvenile Ostriches (Struthio camelus) in Botswana on the Heterophil to Lymphocyte Ratio |
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Authors: | Kamau J.M. Patrick B.T. Mushi E.Z. |
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Affiliation: | (1) Animal Science and Production Department, Botswana College of Agriculture, Private Bag 0027, Gaborone, Botswana |
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Abstract: | The possibility was investigated that translocation of juvenile ostriches from concrete-paved to sand-floored pens and mixing of batches of ostriches after such translocation constitute a stress strong enough to evoke changes in the ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes. Blood smears were obtained from 15 ostriches out of a group of 25 birds 4 and 2 days before and then 2 and 4 days after translocation. The heterophil to lymphocyte ratio changed from 0.27 and 0.37 on days 4 and 2, respectively, before mixing and translocation to 0.53 and 0.84 on days 2 and 4, respectively, after translocation. Mixing and translocating juvenile ostriches appears to constitute stress. This information is important for the on-farm management of juvenile ostriches to enhance their welfare and productivity. |
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Keywords: | dexamethasone heterophil:lymphocyte ratio mixing ostrich social bonding stress translocation |
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