Noninvasive estimation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system activity in the Far East leopard.

Abstract

The Far East leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is the rarest subspecies of cats (Felidae) on Earth. Its his� toric range embraces the northeast of China, the Korean Peninsula, and the southern part of Primorskii krai of Russia [1]. At the present time, only a small population of Far East leopard has retained in the southwest of Primorye and in adjacent regions of China. Although the population of this subspecies has remained relatively stable throughout several decades [2], very small numbers (20–40 individuals) and a low genetic diversity [3] make this species extremely vul� nerable. In addition, Far East leopard dwells in the most densely inhabited regions of Primorye and undergoes a strong impact related not only to illegal hunt for the predator and its prey, but also to the rec� reation load and disturbance because of a dense net� work of motor roads. For successful preservation of Far East leopard, detailed data on the state of its population and data on the impact of environmental factors on the physiolog� ical state of animals in nature are needed. One of approaches to the characteristic of the physiological state of animals is assessment of their hormonal status, mainly the level of glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoid hormones (cortisol and corticoster� one) play the leading role in the maintenance of homeostasis and in the energy exchange in mammals. An increase in the level of glucocorticoids leads to an increase in the concentration of glucose and triggers processes of gluconeogenesis and catabolism of pro� teins. This enables the animal to mobilize body resources in situations related to seasonal changes in the behavior of animals (for instance, at the onset of the reproductive season) and food accessibility, and to