The Effect of Blood Sampling on Plasma Cortisol in Female Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus L)

Abstract

A major response of the body to stress is the secretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) by the adenohypophysis resulting in increased blood Cortisol levels. Corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) controls the release of ACTH, mediating a direct effect at the level of the pituitary (Guillame et al. 1992). An animal's perception of a stressful event and the resulting increase in Cortisol production can be influenced by previous experience, season, time of day, and the animal's sex, age, and condition (Dantzer & Mormède 1983, Moberg 1985).