Variation of hematochemical profile and vitamin E status in feral Giara horses from free grazing in the wild to hay feeding during captivity

Abstract Wildlife protection and management are important priorities for landscape identity and biodiversity preservation. Feeding practices of fauna confined in facilities during temporary captivity are fundamental to support animal health and natural behaviour. Appropriate provision of feedstuffs appears to be necessary to support the best practices in respect of animal species-specific natural diet. This investigation explored the variation of the metabolic profile by means of selected metabolite and respective circulating levels in a group feral Giara horses undergoing the change of the diet, moving from natural free grazing in the wild to temporary captivity. Six Giara horses (4 mares and 2 stallions; estimated age: 2.5 to 3 ys; body weight: 163 - 170 kg) were captured to monitor the serological reaction to Equine Infectious Anaemia (EIA,screening at Coggins test). Animals were sheltered in a wildlife rescue center for a duration of four weeks and all received the same hay-based diet (ad libitum). On 0d and 28d of captivity, blood serum alpha-tocopherol (α-TOH) concentration was determined alongside selected metabolites (liver enzymes, total protein and fractions, cholesterol, triglycerides and macrominerals and trace elements). Comparative feces quality and composition were also assessed. Both serum samples (0d vs. 28d) displayed α-TOH levels below (