Comparison of Serum Protein Electrophoresis Values in Wild and Captive Whooping Cranes ( Grus americana )

Wild whooping cranes exhibit distinct serum protein profiles compared to their captive counterparts, reflecting differences in immune stimulation and natural history. Research found that wild juveniles had significantly lower concentrations of most protein fractions than both wild adults and captive juveniles, except for prealbumin and γ globulins. Wild adults also showed higher γ globulin levels than captive adults, likely due to increased antigenic exposure. Captive juveniles displayed lower prealbumin, albumin concentrations, and albumin:globulin ratios compared to captive adults. The study utilized serum samples from wild cranes at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (adults) and Wood Buffalo National Park (juveniles), alongside captive crane samples from the International Crane Foundation. This research provides reference intervals for serum protein electrophoresis in captive adult whooping cranes, offering insights into their health and immune response.

Hausmann, J. C., Cray, C., & Hartup, B. K. (2015). Comparison of Serum Protein Electrophoresis Values in Wild and Captive Whooping Cranes ( Grus americana ). Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery, 29(3), 192–199. https://doi.org/10.1647/2014-046