Faecal Cortisol Levels in Captive Asian Elephants: Associations with Facility Features, Physical Attributes and Foot Disorders
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/ijvsbt.22.2.19Keywords:
Captive Asian elephants, Faecal cortisol, Foot disorders, Stress.Abstract
Captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) are often subjected to chronic stress due to restricted movement, limited exercise, monotonous routines and confinement, all of which can compromise their health and welfare. Assessing stress through non-invasive biomarkers such as faecal cortisol provides valuable insights into their physiological well-being under different management systems. This study evaluated faecal cortisol concentrations in 46 captive elephants maintained under various management systems across Tamil Nadu, India. Physical parameters, body condition scores, housing facilities and foot disorders were recorded. Foot disorders were classified into nail, cuticle, sole, pad lesions and structural deformities. Faecal cortisol concentrations were estimated using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography. The mean faecal cortisol level was 243.96 ± 17.08 ng/g, ranging from 85.14 to 553.24 ng/g. Cortisol concentrations varied significantly between locations, with elephants from Tirunelveli showing higher levels (317.91 ± 50.0 ng/g) compared to those from Trichy and Thanjavur (193.79 ± 34.78 ng/g). A significant negative correlation was observed between faecal cortisol and body condition score, while no correlation was found with age or body weight. Elephants with structural deformities exhibited significantly higher cortisol concentrations (413.33 ± 69.80 ng/g; p<0.01) than those without. The findings suggest that chronic foot disorders, suboptimal housing and inadequate management practices contribute to elevated stress levels in captive elephants. Regular monitoring of faecal cortisol, combined with improved husbandry and foot care, can enhance welfare and inform targeted management strategies for captive elephant conservation in India.Downloads
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