Hematology of the Bronze Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo): Variations with Age and Gender

Abstract

One hundred and ten Bronze Turkeys: 40 females (19-23 week-old), 13 males (19-23 week-old), 35 females (30-32 week-old) and 22 males (30-32 week-old), were investigated to analyse the influences of age and sex on hematological parameters. Statistical comparisons were made for differences in values between male and female and among different ages. Lymphocytes were the major circulating leukocyte for all birds. Total serum protein, lymphocytes and basophils were significantly different between females of both ages. The RBC values were significantly different between males of both ages.