Blood chemistry and haematocrit of the Black vulture (Aegypius monachus)

Abstract

We determined the values of haematocrit and blood chemistry of the black vulture (Aegypius monachus) inExtremadura (Spain). We analysed 57 nestlings, five feral adults, seven captive individuals in their first year and fivecaptive adults. Free-living adults had a higher haematocrit and lower calcium and alkaline phosphatases concentrationsthan captive birds. There were differences in haematocrit and in the concentrations of glucose, uric acid, total proteins,alkaline phosphatases, phosphorus and aspartate aminotransferase between nestlings and young in their first year andadults. The estimated age of the nestlings was significantly correlated with haematocrit, plasma glucose and total proteinconcentrations. The physical condition of nestlings was significantly correlated with plasma alkaline phosphatases levels.