Hematological parameters of free-ranging moose Alces alces (Linnaeus 1758) (Ruminantia, Cervidae)

Abstract

Comparative studies that feature the physiology of wild and domestic animals replenish the fundamental knowledge in the field of biology and adaptive potential, thus increasing the efficiency of domestication. Semi-free conditions and artificial environment create prerequisites for epidemics and stress. However, early detection can prevent critical situations. This research provides new data on moose biology and physiology by establishing age and sex hematological parameters. The study featured moose blood samples (n = 55) obtained in the Kirov Region in the northeast of European Russia. Hematological tests relied on a veterinary version of a MicroCC-20 Plus automatic analyzer (High Technology). This research was the first of its kind to introduce a comparative hematological analysis of local European moose according to age and sex. Adults and calves demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05) in red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean concentration hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, platelet distribution width, red blood cell distribution width, platelet crit, platelets, leukocytes, and eosinophils. Females and males also had significant differences (p < 0.05) in red blood cells, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width, platelet distribution width, platelets, and eosinophil content. The single- and multivariate analysis made it possible to establish the effect of physiological factors on the blood parameters in moose. The hematological values were in line with the most indicators reported in other publications on wild artiodactyls. The existing differences in blood parameters depended on the species, habitat, food supply, age, and sex.