Plasma chemistry reference values in the gyr falcon (Falco rusticolus)

Abstract

Blood samples were collected from 102 clinically healthy gyr falcons (Falco rusticolus) over a time period of approximately 3 years as part of routine examination proce- dures. Standard blood chemistry analyses were carried out to establish normal reference values for the species. Plasma chemistry analyses included alkaline phosphatase (ALP), am- ylase, blood urea nitrogen, bile acids, calcium, cholesterol, creatinine, creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), lactate dehydroge- nase (LDH), glucose, phosphate, iron, total protein, total bilirubin, and uric acid. Reference intervals were determined using a quantile approach with 90 % confidence intervals of the limits. Juveniles and adults differ in ALT, creatinine, AST, glucose, LDH, and uric acid. Sexes differ in ALP, CK, AST, and phosphorus. This study provides valuable information on the plasma biochemistry values for gyr falcons that may help in the medical managementof this endangeredand commonly used falconry species.