Haematological and serum biochemical reference intervals of free‐ranging Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi)

Abstract

Background Reference intervals for haematology and serum biochemistry parameters were developed for free‐ranging Lumholtz's tree‐kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) using 35 samples from 12 female and 15 male free‐ranging animals. Captive tree‐kangaroos (n = 12) were also sampled for comparison. Differences were found between free‐ranging and captive animals in white blood cell and neutrophil counts, and levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, creatine kinase, phosphate, triglycerides and lipase. These differences may be attributed to diet, activity, capture methods or age group. Reference intervals generated may be used for both free‐ranging and captive Lumholtz'..