Hematological and plasma biochemical values of the greater glider in Australia

Abstract

Reference hematological and plasma biochemical values are presented for the greater glider (Petauroides volans) at Tumut (southeastern New South Wales, Australia). Nineteen animals were sampled during a capture period of 1 wk in August 1999. Values for red cell counts were significantly higher in male animals (x̄ ± SE; males: 5.6 ± 0.1; females: 5.2 ± 0.1). Young animals had higher white cell counts than older ones (x̄ ± SE; young: 4.9 ± 0.4; older: 2.8 ± 0.4). Lymphocytes were the predominant white blood cell type in this species.