Analysis of orphan moose calf health parameters from 2015

Every spring and summer the Alaska Department of Fish and Game responds to a number of potentially orphaned moose calves. Those calves that cannot be reunited with their cow and are too young to be independent are taken into... [ view full abstract ]

Every spring and summer the Alaska Department of Fish and Game responds to a number of potentially orphaned moose calves. Those calves that cannot be reunited with their cow and are too young to be independent are taken into captivity for permanent display or hand-reared for release. In order to evaluate a hand-reared moose calf’s likelihood of survival to the end of August we analyzed the blood parameters of the 2015 cohort of moose calves and compared these to samples collected in previous years. This analysis strives to develop tools to predict the chance of future successful hand-rearing candidates based upon their initial assessment. During May and June of 2015, 15 calves were picked up and blood samples were collected and analyzed. As of August 31, 6 (40%) of these calves were still alive. Of the 7 calves that died during captivity, 5 (71%) of these animals did not survive the first 10 days and had histological evidence of dehydration, malnutrition, and/or starvation. These results indicate calves surviving 10 days in captivity had an increased chance of surviving through the season. Based upon our analysis of the history, physical condition, and blood chemistry results, our determination for indicators of poor prognosis for survival to weaning/release age in orphan moose calves include: BUN>60 mg/dl, high concentration of serum haptoglobins, dehydration, malnourishment, and fractured long bones. Results of concern indicating veterinary care needed in these severely compromised moose calves include: low globulin, low albumin, low trace minerals or biomarkers such as ceruloplasmin.