Abstract:
Due to logistical problems in obtaining sufficient blood samples from apparently healthy animals in the
wild in order to establish normal haematological reference values, only limited information regarding
the blood platelet count and morphology of free-living lions (Panthera leo) is available. This study
provides information on platelet counts and describes their morphology with particular reference to
size in two normal, healthy and free-ranging lion populations. Blood samples were collected from a
total of 16 lions. Platelet counts, determined manually, ranged between 218 and 358 x 109/ℓ. Light
microscopy showed mostly activated platelets of various sizes with prominent granules. At the ultrastructural
level the platelets revealed typical mammalian platelet morphology. However, morphometric
analysis revealed a significant difference (P < 0.001) in platelet size between the two groups of
animals. Basic haematological information obtained in this study may be helpful in future comparative
studies between animals of the same species as well as in other felids.
