Effect of supplementation of lutein and DL-methionine on certain haematobiochemical parameters and serum concentration of corticosterone in captive Golden pheasants (Chrysolophus pictus)

Twenty four malegolden pheasants were divided into 4 groups of 6 each. First group basal diet contained no supplementary lutein or DL-methionine (M₀C₀). The diet of the birds in group M₀C₁ were supplemented with lutein (40 mg/kg DM) without supplementary DL methionine, whereas those in group M₁C₀ were supplemented only with DL-methionine (1.5g/kg DM). Birds in group M₁C₁ were fed both the supplements. A feeding trial of 60 days duration was conducted. Heterophill counts was significantly lower (P<0.001) in groups M₀C₁ and M₁ C₁ as compared to group M₀C₀ and M₁ C₀ and lymphocyte count was higher (P<0.05) in lutein supplemented group as compared to non-lutein supplemented groups. The ratio of H: L was significantly higher (P<0.001) in lutein supplemented groups. Other haematological and serum biochemical parameters were not significantly different among the groups. Serum concentrations of corticosterone were lower (P<0.001) in groups M₀ C₁ and M₁ C₁ as compared to groups M₀C₀ and M₁ C₀ It was concluded that supplementation of lutein (40mg/kg DM) but not DL-methionine (0.15% DM) improved the capability of the Golden pheasant to combat stress.