Cortisol Levels as a Measure of Environmental Stress in American Black Bears
Faculty Mentor
Karin Melkonian
Area of Research
Biology
Major
Biology
Description
INTRODUCTION: Cortisol, a measure of stress, can be used to analyze metabolic experiences and hormones, during hibernation, lactation, and exposure to disease in American black bears (Ursus americanus).
METHOD: Cortisol levels were compared across the studied data set to specific thyroid hormones such as TT3, and TT4. The black bears were also tested during specific seasons (Winter: February-March, Summer: May-June, Fall. October-November) throughout the year to understand if hibernation affects cortisol levels. Lactation statuses were compared to observe if a bear undergoing lactation or not affected their level of cortisol. Positive observations of prior disease exposure were used to determine if cortisol levels are affected by disease exposure. The collected data is based on field work performed in Wisconsin.
RESULTS: It was found in the analyzed data that metabolic hormones and exposure to disease do not cause a change to cortisol levels in the blood, but lactation and hibernation do.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: In our research, it is important to acknowledge the understanding of the black bear's nature and physiology. Our study shows that lactation and hibernation are stressful components of life in black bears and can affect the health of the bear.
Cortisol Levels as a Measure of Environmental Stress in American Black Bears
INTRODUCTION: Cortisol, a measure of stress, can be used to analyze metabolic experiences and hormones, during hibernation, lactation, and exposure to disease in American black bears (Ursus americanus).
METHOD: Cortisol levels were compared across the studied data set to specific thyroid hormones such as TT3, and TT4. The black bears were also tested during specific seasons (Winter: February-March, Summer: May-June, Fall. October-November) throughout the year to understand if hibernation affects cortisol levels. Lactation statuses were compared to observe if a bear undergoing lactation or not affected their level of cortisol. Positive observations of prior disease exposure were used to determine if cortisol levels are affected by disease exposure. The collected data is based on field work performed in Wisconsin.
RESULTS: It was found in the analyzed data that metabolic hormones and exposure to disease do not cause a change to cortisol levels in the blood, but lactation and hibernation do.
DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: In our research, it is important to acknowledge the understanding of the black bear's nature and physiology. Our study shows that lactation and hibernation are stressful components of life in black bears and can affect the health of the bear.