Raman spectroscopy as a novel non-invasive technique to assess wildlife welfare

This project aims to validate Raman spectroscopy as a novel non-invasive technique to measure steroid hormone levels in hair of wildlife. Analyses of hormones accumulated in the hair, such as cortisol, are a powerful tool for measuring chronic stress in animals, without the challenges and ethical issues associated with the collection of serum or saliva. Using this technique, which is suitable for field use and does not require sample pre-treatment, the project will improve quality and speediness of data acquisition. Funded by Wild Animal Initiative (C-2023-00011)