Assessment of Hair Re-Growth and the Correlation Between Hair Cortisol and Fecal Glucocorticoid Metabolite Concentrations in Captive Wolves

This study investigated hair re-growth and the correlation between hair cortisol and faecal glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in seven captive wolves. The research found that hair growth in wolves is seasonally specific, with a growth spurt in late summer and autumn. A significant positive correlation between faecal and hair cortisol concentrations was established, indicating that hair cortisol reflects systemic levels. The study also identified body region and season as significant factors affecting hair cortisol levels. These findings contribute valuable information to non-invasive endocrinology and can aid future research on cortisol levels in wild wolves.