International Journal of
eISSN: 2574-9862
Submit manuscript...
Research Article Volume 10 Issue 2
Transport-Related Variations in Hematology and Biochemistry of Greater Flamingos at Dubai Safari Park
Ni Made Herawati, Murad B. M. Mustafa, Alonoud S. Shaheen, Anjan Talukdar, Mohit Swami, Muna A. Alhajeri
Received: August 25, 2026 | Published: September 11, 2026
Citation: Herawati NM, Mustafa MBM, Shaheen AS, et al. Transport-Related Variations in Hematology and Biochemistry of Greater Flamingos at Dubai Safari Park. Int J Avian & Wildlife Biol. 2026;10(2):51‒54. DOI: 10.15406/ijawb.2026.10.00254
Abstract
Dubai Safari Park, one of the leading wildlife conservation facilities in Dubai, maintains a diverse range of species in exhibits designed to support natural behaviors and contribute to ex situ conservation programs. As in many modern zoological institutions, the park routinely engages in animal exchange programs to manage surplus populations, optimize enclosure space, and maintain appropriate social groupings. Although transportation is an essential component of these exchanges, it is well recognized that handling, confinement, and environmental changes of the animals can induce acute physiological stress in many avian species. The Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is particularly sensitive to such disturbances, often exhibiting measurable alterations in blood parameters following transport. This case study evaluated the hematological and biochemical profiles of newly arrived Greater Flamingos upon their admission to quarantine, with the aim of identifying physiological changes associated with transport and early acclimatization. Post-arrival blood analyses showed that 78% of the birds had elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit values, while 89% exhibited increased albumin concentrations, findings consistent with dehydration-related hemoconcentration following transport. All individuals demonstrated elevated bile acid levels, and 61% showed increased creatine kinase activity, suggesting muscular exertion and hepatic metabolic responses commonly associated with acute stress. In contrast, notable reductions were observed in globulin (94%), red blood cell count (61%), and uric acid (56%), indicating potential stress-related immune modulation and alterations in protein metabolism. These physiological shifts are consistent with previously documented effects of transport on avian species and reinforce the importance of monitoring hematological and biochemical indicators during the acclimatization period. The results underscore the value of post-transport health assessments in evaluating welfare, guiding improvements in transport protocols, and supporting the overall success of ex-situ conservation programs.
Keywords: Greater Flamingo, hematology, biochemistry, transportation, stress physiology, avian welfare
©2026 Herawati, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.