Welfare assessment in the Indian rhino and Asian elephant through cortisol measurement in saliva

Abstract

At Estación Biológica Terra Natura (University of Alicante, Spain), we are developing a stress assessment program in the Indian rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis) and Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) at Terra Natura’s Theme Park. We are attempting to test the effect of environmental enrichment techniques applied in their enclosures, through cortisol measurement in saliva. We obtain the saliva daily and the cortisol level is analysed using RIA (Radio Immuno Assay techniques), at the endocrinology facilities of the Hospital General Universitario de Alicante (Spain). We have detected daily variations in the cortisol level linked to activities in the Theme Park such as: opening days, number of visitors, and the influence of each animal history (some of them proceed from a circus) These results are used to decide the modifications in the management of the individuals and to improve the environmental enrichment of the exhibits. These techniques are being applied for first time to test the effects on these two species of environmental enrichment interventions.