Physiological stress in volcano rabbit Romerolagus diazi populations inhabiting contrasting zones at the Corredor Biologico Chichinautzin, Mexico

Abstract

Changes in the environment are a common factor as human populations continue to increase. Wild mammals face these changes even in those places where they live under protection because protected areas borders are not hermetic. Measurements of faecal cortisol metabolites have become a useful tool for monitoring animal physiological status as they reflect stressful situations. In this study we measured faecal cortisol metabolites in volcano rabbits, Romerolagus diazi, inhabiting a natural protected area. Concentrations were compared between animals inhabiting disturbed vs. more natural sites within the general zone. Not only were faecal cortisol metabolites levels significantly higher in animals from the disturbed sites indicating potentially higher physiological stress intensities, but there was larger variation between the concentrations measured in those samples as well. These inter-individual cortisol metabolites concentrations are a potential indicator of physiological health for wildlife.