Capture-related hypoglycemia and recovery in free-ranging black rhinoceroses (diceros bicornis bicornis)

Abstract

Hypoglycemia (glucose,65 mg/dl) was detected in 21 of 28 immobilized freeranging black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis). At repeat sampling 25 min later, only 6 of 28 were hypoglycemic (P<0.05). Lactate was significantly higher (P<0.0001) early in immobilization. Hypoglycemia and elevated lactate may increase risk of anesthetic complications and postrecovery problems. © Wildlife Disease Association 2012.