Modification of the responses of sheep to isolation stress by the use of mirror panels (1988)

Parrott, R. F., Houpt, K. A., Misson, B. H.

Abstract

Isolated sheep showed considerable interest in the mirror but no other behavioural differences were found. Plasma cortisol levels were increased by isolation and were significantly higher during the 'no mirror' condition. .. Plasma prolactin concentrations were low and rather variable, but tended to increase gradually in the 'no mirror' condition. Isolation produced significant reductions in haematocrit and plasma osmolality, and these effect appeared to be more pronounced in the 'no mirror' condition. The results suggest that a variety of factors contribute to the stress response of the isolated sheep, and that a mirror is only partially effective as a substitute for another animal.