Some hematological values of free-ranging African elephants

Blood samples were collected from 23 free-ranging African elephants(Loxodonta africana) in Tanzania. Red and white blood cell counts, white blood cell differential, hemoglobin, blood copper, and blood inorganic phosphate were determined. No correlation of any of these measurements with age and sex was discernible, except that the total white count was significantly higher in females than in males in all age groups. The findings are compared with those previously reported for captive and free-ranging African elephants.