Alteration in haematocrit values and plasma protein fractions during the breeding cycle of female pigeons, Columba livia.

Haematocrit measurements and plasma protein electrophoresis were carried out in female pigeons (Columba livia) during the breeding cycle. Non-laying birds showed higher (p < 0.001) haematocrit values than those involved in courtship and mating, nest-building, incubation and feeding and brooding. Significant differences in relative percentage of various plasma protein fractions were observed as a function of breeding. Haematocrit could be a useful index to the non-laying status of pigeons like that in chickens, Gallus domesticus.