Variation in Hematological Indices, Oxidative Stress, and Immune Function Among Male Song Sparrows From Rural and Low-Density Urban Habitats

A central theme in the field of ecology is understanding how environmental variables influence a species’ distribution. In last 20 years, there has been particular attention given to adaptive physiological traits that allow some species persist urban environments. However, no clear consensus on urbanization influences physiology, and it unclear whether differences birds are directly linked adverse outcomes or representative adaptively responding novel variables. Moreover, though low-density suburban development fastest advancing form urbanization, most studies have focused animals inhabiting high intensity habitats. this study, we measured suite reflect condition immune function male song sparrows ( Melospiza melodia ) from rural Specifically, hematological indices [packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular concentration (MCHC)], circulating glutathione (total, reduced, oxidized), oxidative damage (d-ROM concentration), antioxidant capacity, components innate system [bacteria killing ability (BKA), white blood counts]. We also whole-animal health, including body (scaled mass index length) furcular fat. Song environments exhibited lower MCHC, but higher fat scores. Additionally, had heterophil counts lymphocyte counts, were heterophil:lymphocyte ratio BKA between birds. PCV, concentrations, did not differ sparrows. Overall, exhibit responses suggestive outcomes. Rather, evidence habitats phenotypic energy storage metabolic demand, which may be related behavioral previously observed these populations. Furthermore, study highlights need for measuring multiple markers physiology across different types accurately assess effects wildlife.