The effect of short heat stress upon leucocyte count, plasma corticosterone level, plasma and leucocyte ascorbic acid content.

Cocks were exposed to 1 or 2 h at 24 degrees C; blood samples were taken before and immediately after treatment and for a period of 20 h thereafter. 2. Heat caused a significant decrease in leucocyte counts, an increase in corticosterone concentration in plasma and an increase of ascorbic acid in plasma and in leucocytes. 3. These four measures can be used to indicate a stress response and the measurements can be done without harming the animal.