Faecal Glucocorticoids Metabolite Response in Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) in Relation to Protected Area Management Objectives in Tanzania

Giraffe females exhibit significantly higher faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (FGM) levels than males, indicating greater stress responses. Group size and age also influence FGM concentrations, while protection type and poaching risk do not show significant effects. The study used non-invasive faecal sampling to assess stress in 272 giraffe groups across the Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve, highlighting the need for conservation strategies that minimize stressful events, particularly for vulnerable young animals.

Marealle, W. N., Eggen, G. S., & Røskaft, E. (2020). Faecal Glucocorticoids Metabolite Response in Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) in Relation to Protected Area Management Objectives in Tanzania. East African Journal of Forestry and Agroforestry, 2(1), 47–58. https://doi.org/10.37284/eajfa.2.1.142