Salivary cortisol assessment for stress detection in the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus): A pilot study
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1992 |
Authors: |
Holger H. Dathe, Bernd Kuckelkorn, Dieter Minnemann |
Publication/Journal: |
Zoo Biology |
Publisher: |
A Wiley Company, Inc., Wiley Subscription Services |
Keywords: |
management, physiology, stress monitoring |
ISBN: |
1098-2361 |
Abstract:
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.1430110408.abs Effects of introducing an unfamiliar female into an Asian elephant herd at Tierpark Berlin were monitored by means of salivary cortisol assessment. Saliva samples were obtained from a second female for comparative purposes. The period of familiarization was characterized by an enhanced cortisol level in both animals, with a maximum on the second day after joining. Cortisol returned to normal on the following day. Manipulations of the keepers caused a transitory increase on two other days. Possibilities for the use of this noninvasive method of stress monitoring in various management situations are indicated. © 1992 Wiley-Liss Inc.