Hematological profile of free-range Sunda porcupine (Hystrix javanica)

Background: The Sunda porcupine, or the Javan porcupine (Hystrix javanica), is a rodent native to Indonesia. Although information about its conservation status is available, the hematological profile is limited. The normal hematological profile of an animal is essential as a basic health indicator to determine the initial state of a pathological process of a disease. Since the hematological profile can provide significant evidence regarding the health status of the species, the Sunda Porcupine's hematological profile can benefit conservation initiatives. Therefore, hematological evaluation of these porcupines can play a role in conservation initiatives, breeding strategies and the prevention of zoonotic diseases. Aim: This research revealed the routine blood evaluation and white blood cell morphological features of the free-ranging Sunda porcupine (Hystrix javanica). Methods: Blood samples from four free-range individuals captured Sunda porcupine (Hystrix javanica) were obtained intracardially for routine hematological evaluation and white blood cell staining for morphological identification. The profiles were then analyzed descriptively. Results: Hematology profile averages were generally 4.04 x106/Ul for RBC; Hemoglobin was in 12.83 g/dL; Hematocrit by 37.8%; MCV 107.1 fl; MCH 31.80 pg; MCHC 31.23 g/dL; while WBC and platelet (PLT) were at 9.67 x103/uL and 503.00 x103/uL, respectively. Conclusion: The morphology of red blood cells, white blood cells, and the hematological profile of the Javan hedgehog is not much different from that of other mammals such as crested porcupines, ferrets, and guinea pigs. Until now, there has been limited research on the hematology of Sunda porcupines, which has led to a limited understanding of their health status. We anticipate that the findings of this study will serve as a diagnostic instrument for evaluating the health condition of Sunda porcupine and serve as a benchmark.