Abstract
In this study, we evaluated a non-invasive method for measuring glucocorticoid metabolites (GCM) in the Mountain hare (Lepus timidus). An adrenocorticotrophic hormone challenge test was performed in order to select an appropriate enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to measure faecal GCM. Finally, an 11-oxoaetiocholanolone EIA and a 5α-pregnane-3β,11β,21-triol-20-one EIA were chosen. Both assays showed small fluctuations in baseline values and a clear response after stimulation of the adrenocortical activity. To test the stability of faecal metabolites under field conditions, the effects of different storage conditions and periods on GCM concentrations were examined. The assays revealed low fluctuations in metabolite concentrations within the storage period of 12, 24, 48 and 72 h, both at ambient temperatures of 10°C and 25°C, respectively. A washing-out effect of water was found for both assays, which must be taken into account in field studies. The results indicate that this non-invasive method can be used to evaluate glucocorticoid levels of free-ranging Mountain hares.
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