Abelenda, M., M.P.Nava, A. Fernández, J.A. Alonso, J.C. Alonso, R. Muñoz-Pulido, L.M. Bautista, and M.L. Puerta. 1993. Blood values of common cranes by age and season. Compar. Biochem. Physiol. 104: 575-578.

ABSTRACT. We studied the blood composition of common cranes (Grus grus) along the wintering period (October-March). 2.- Plasma proteins decreased along the winter period whereas plasma urea increased. Both parameters were highly correlated. 3.- Plasma levels of uric acid, triglycerides and cholesterol did not change during the winter. Young birds showed higher levels of plasma triglycerides. 4. - Red blood cell number, hematocrit and blood hemoglobin content were similar in young and adult birds. Lower values of hematocrit and red cell number were recorded in early autumn. 5. - Total white blood cell number did not change during the winter, young birds showing higher numbers than adults. Lymphocyte number decreased from November to March while heterophil counts increased.       


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