Variation of Hematochemical Profile and Vitamin E Status in Feral Giara Horses From Free Grazing in the Wild to Hay Feeding During Captivity.

This research investigates the changes in metabolic profile, particularly vitamin E levels, in a group of wild Giara horses when shifted from their natural environment to captivity. The consumption of their diet was also analyzed from free grazing in the wild to hay feeding in captivity, providing insights into adjusting feedstuffs for captive wildlife to maintain their health and natural behavior.

Background

• The study emphasizes the importance of wildlife protection and management for biodiversity preservation and landscape identity.
• The researchers note that feeding practices of animals during temporary captivity are crucial to their health and natural behavior.
• The correct provision of feedstuff, relative to the species’ natural diet, is necessary for best practices in animal management.

Research Focus

• The research focused on the variation of the metabolic profile in Giara horses as they moved from free grazing in the wild to a hay-based diet in captivity.
• These variations were scrutinized through selected metabolite levels alongside their circulating levels.
• Particular focus was given to serum alpha-tocopherol (α-TOH) concentration, a significant component of vitamin E.

Methodology and Findings

• Six Giara horses were captured for the study, all subjected to a uniform hay-based diet in a wildlife rescue center for four weeks.
• The investigation tracked changes in various metabolites such as liver enzymes, total protein and fractions, cholesterol, triglycerides, and macrominerals and trace elements. The concentration of α-TOH was also measured.
• The quality and composition of feces were evaluated for comparison purposes. Additionally, the horses were tested for equine infectious anemia (EIA), all returning negative results.
• The analysis revealed that α-TOH levels were consistently below the established adequacy for domestic horses, both prior to and after captivity, with a further significant decrease recorded after four weeks of captivity.
• While alterations in vitamin E status and ALT levels were observed during captivity, no significant variations were detected in serum protein fractions.

Conclusion and Recommendations

• The research concluded that maintaining adequate feeding practices during captivity is necessary to prevent potential vitamin E deficiency or excessive depletion.
• The authors suggest regular monitoring of vitamin E status in wild and feral herbivores during captivity to preserve their health and natural behavior.