Animals

2024

Jump to: 2023

10 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Salmonella and Salmonellosis in Wild Birds

by Paul Wigley

Animals 2024, 14(23), 3533; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14233533 - 6 Dec 2024

Viewed by 483

Abstract

Salmonella enterica is an important bacterial pathogen in humans and warm-blooded animals. Wild bird species represent both a potential reservoir for zoonotic infection and as a susceptible host to infection by host-adapted variants. Historically, wild birds were considered to be a major source [...] Read more.

Salmonella enterica is an important bacterial pathogen in humans and warm-blooded animals. Wild bird species represent both a potential reservoir for zoonotic infection and as a susceptible host to infection by host-adapted variants. Historically, wild birds were considered to be a major source of Salmonella infection in livestock, but in recent years, it has been more apparent that birds are more likely to act as a reservoir for recycling infection on farms rather than as the primary source of infection. Birds may also transmit infection to humans directly from feces or indirectly through fecal contamination of foods, including peanut butter. While many bird species can be infected with Salmonella, the rates of infection are variable, and most cases lead to intestinal carriage rather than disease. In this case, fecal shedding of Salmonella bacteria from birds can represent a risk for transmission to humans. As such, care is needed when in contact with fecal material such as that found on bird tables or feeders. In recent years, there have been emergences of Salmonella Typhimurium genotypes associated with high mortality in songbirds or passerine birds, resulting in ‘die offs’ in Europe, Israel, New Zealand and the US. Additionally, S. typhimurium DT2 and other variant Copenhagen genotypes are associated with high mortality disease in pigeons. These genotypes show evidence of evolution towards adaptation to specific hosts, with pseudogenes leading to loss of functional metabolic pathways and specific virulence factors. These ‘signatures of adaptation’ are common in host-adapted Salmonella serovars and suggest these S. typhimurium isolates are evolving to adapt to specific avian hosts. Full article

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10 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Seroepidemiology of Coxiella burnetii in Domestic and Wild Ruminant Species in Southern Spain

by Débora Jiménez-Martín, Javier Caballero-Gómez, David Cano-Terriza, Saúl Jiménez-Ruiz, Jorge Paniagua, Paloma Prieto-Yerro, Sabrina Castro-Scholten and Ignacio García-Bocanegra

Animals 2024, 14(21), 3072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14213072 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 2544

Abstract

The European Food Safety Authority has recently listed Q fever as a priority for setting up a coordinated surveillance system. Although Spain is the country with the highest human incidence of the disease in the European Union, updated data on Coxiella burnetii in [...] Read more.

The European Food Safety Authority has recently listed Q fever as a priority for setting up a coordinated surveillance system. Although Spain is the country with the highest human incidence of the disease in the European Union, updated data on Coxiella burnetii in ruminants are still limited. A total of 780 serum samples from small ruminants and 605 sera from wild ruminants were collected in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain during the period 2015–2023. Anti-C. burnetii antibodies were detected using a commercial indirect ELISA. The overall individual seroprevalence in the small ruminants was 49.1% (383/780; 95% CI: 45.6–52.6). Antibodies against C. burnetii were identified in 40.0% (156/390) of sheep and in 58.2% (227/390) of goats. At least one seropositive animal was observed in all sheep (100%) and in 92.3% of goat flocks. The species (goat) and the existence of reproductive disorders in primiparous females were potential risk factors for C. burnetii exposure in small ruminant farms. In the wild ruminants, the overall seroprevalence against C. burnetii was 1.5% (9/605; 95% CI: 0.8–2.8). Anti-C. burnetii antibodies were found in 1.8% (2/110) of mouflon, 1.5% (6/390) of red deer, and 1.0% (1/105) of Iberian ibex. The high exposure of the small ruminants to C. burnetii, particularly in goats, detected in the present study is of animal and public health concern. Our results denote that wild ruminants only play a minor role in the epidemiology of this bacterium in southern Spain and suggest an independent epidemiological cycle of C. burnetii in domestic and wild ruminant species in the study area. Full article

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14 pages, 2739 KiB

Open AccessReview

Candidiasis in Choloepus sp.—A Review of New Advances on the Disease

by Marina Sette Camara Benarrós and Felipe Masiero Salvarani

Animals 2024, 14(14), 2092; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142092 - 17 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1035

Abstract

Candidiasis is a significant fungal infection caused by various species of the genus Candida, posing health challenges to a wide range of animals, including Choloepus species (two-toed sloths). This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of candidiasis in Choloepus sp., [...] Read more.

Candidiasis is a significant fungal infection caused by various species of the genus Candida, posing health challenges to a wide range of animals, including Choloepus species (two-toed sloths). This review article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of candidiasis in Choloepus sp., highlighting the etiology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. This article begins by examining the causative agents, primarily focusing on Candida albicans, which is the most commonly implicated species in candidiasis. The epidemiological aspects are discussed, emphasizing the prevalence of candidiasis in wild and captive Choloepus populations and identifying predisposing factors, such as immunosuppression, stress, poor nutrition, and environmental conditions. Pathogenesis is explored, detailing the mechanisms through which Candida species invade host tissues and evade immune responses. Clinical manifestations in Choloepus sp. are described, including oral thrush, cutaneous lesions, and gastrointestinal infections, and their impact on the health and behavior of affected individuals. Diagnostic methods, including culture techniques, histopathology, and molecular assays, are reviewed to highlight their roles in accurately identifying Candida infections. This article also covers treatment options, focusing on antifungal therapies and supportive care tailored to the unique physiology of Choloepus sp. Finally, prevention and management strategies are discussed, emphasizing the importance of maintaining optimal husbandry practices, regular health monitoring, and early intervention to reduce the incidence and impact of candidiasis in Choloepus populations. This review underscores the need for further research to enhance our understanding of candidiasis and improve health outcomes for these unique and vulnerable animals. Full article

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16 pages, 17494 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Correlation between Cross-Sectional Anatomy and Computed Tomography of the Normal Six-Banded Armadillo (Euphractus sexcintus) Nasal Cavity and Paranasal Sinuses

by José Raduan Jaber, Daniel Morales Bordon, Alberto Arencibia, Juan Alberto Corbera, Magnolia Conde-Felipe, Maria Dolores Ayala and Mario Encinoso

Animals 2024, 14(7), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071135 - 8 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1126

Abstract

This research aimed to study the rostral part of the head of the six-banded armadillo, applying advanced imaging techniques such as CT. Furthermore, by combining the images obtained through this technique with anatomical cross-sections, an adequate description of the structures that constitute the [...] Read more.

This research aimed to study the rostral part of the head of the six-banded armadillo, applying advanced imaging techniques such as CT. Furthermore, by combining the images obtained through this technique with anatomical cross-sections, an adequate description of the structures that constitute the rostral part of the head of this species is presented. This anatomical information could provide a valuable diagnostic tool for the clinical evaluation of different disorders in the six-banded armadillo’s nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses. Full article

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16 pages, 690 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Diphyllobothrium sp. and Other Parasites of Migrating and Rare Fish Species in the Southern Baltic Sea and Coastal Waters, Poland

by Izabella Rząd, Beata Więcaszek, Angelika Linowska, Agata Korzelecka-Orkisz and Ewa Dzika

Animals 2024, 14(7), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14071029 - 28 Mar 2024

Viewed by 1500

Abstract

The present study is the first to analyse the parasite fauna of sole Solea solea, dab Limanda limanda, hake Merluccius merluccius, whiting Merlangius merlangus, and plaice Pleuronectes platessa in the Pomeranian Bay, as well as saithe Pollachius virens from [...] Read more.

The present study is the first to analyse the parasite fauna of sole Solea solea, dab Limanda limanda, hake Merluccius merluccius, whiting Merlangius merlangus, and plaice Pleuronectes platessa in the Pomeranian Bay, as well as saithe Pollachius virens from the Szczecin Lagoon (Poland). The aim of this study was to determine the occurrence of parasites in migrating and rare fish in the Pomeranian Bay and the Szczecin Lagoon and to determine the composition of the diet of these fish. The fish for analysis were obtained in the years 2010–2019. The typical marine nematode Capillaria (Procapillaria) gracilis, rarely recorded in Poland, was found, in addition to the following parasites: Ichthyophonus hoferi, Trichodina jadranica, Diphyllobothrium sp., Dichelyne (Cucullanellus) minutus, Raphidascaris acus, Anisakis simplex, Contracaecum osculatum, Hysterothylacium aduncum, Pseudoterranova decipiens, and Echinorhynchus gadi. Because the fish species analysed in the study are not typically present in the Baltic (with the exception of plaice), and because we do not know how long they feed while they are in the Baltic, we cannot be certain which parasites they acquired in the water bodies analysed in the study and which were introduced during the migration of fish. Although these fish are outside of their normal geographic range (except for plaice), in the new environment, there were enough suitable intermediate hosts for the parasites of these fish to complete their life cycle and survive. Full article

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24 pages, 842 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Pathogenic Bacteria in Free-Living Birds, and Its Public Health Significance

by Aleksandra Kobuszewska and Beata Wysok

Animals 2024, 14(6), 968; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060968 - 20 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3012

Abstract

Birds that roam freely, particularly those that migrate, have the potential to carry a range of diseases that can be passed on to humans. The vast movement of these birds across diverse environments and urban areas can contribute to the spread of bacteria [...] Read more.

Birds that roam freely, particularly those that migrate, have the potential to carry a range of diseases that can be passed on to humans. The vast movement of these birds across diverse environments and urban areas can contribute to the spread of bacteria over long distances, impacting both human and animal populations. Stress, overcrowding, and human interaction can also play a role in the transmission of infectious diseases among birds and humans. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the intricate connections between birds, vectors, zoonotic pathogens, and the environment, especially given the increasing urbanization and emergence of zoonotic illnesses. This review aims to provide a systematic overview of the significance of avian species in transmitting bacterial pathogens that pose a risk to public health. Full article

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Graphical abstract

7 pages, 235 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Measurement of Tear Production and Intraocular Pressure in Clinically Conscious Normal Captive Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)

by Liga Kovalcuka and Aija Malniece

Animals 2024, 14(6), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14060940 - 19 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1008

Abstract

Normal values of tear production (STT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) have not been reported in conscious red deer to date. The objective was to determine the normal range of STT and IOP in clinically healthy, conscious red deer (Cervus elaphus) by [...] Read more.

Normal values of tear production (STT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) have not been reported in conscious red deer to date. The objective was to determine the normal range of STT and IOP in clinically healthy, conscious red deer (Cervus elaphus) by utilizing a chute restraint. A total of 60 red deer were examined in this study. Both eyes of all red deer underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, including evaluation of tear production with the Schirmer tear test (STT) and assessment of intraocular pressure (IOP) with rebound tonometry, employing the TonoVet^® device. The mean ± standard deviation of STT values were 18.35 ± 4.54 mm/30 s in the right eye and 17.87 ± 4.12 mm/30 s in the left; for both eyes, 18.11 ± 4.33 mm/30 s, with a reference range of 17.33–18.89 mm/30 s. IOP was as follows: 26.96 ± 4.42 mmHg in the right eye and 26.67 ± 3.80 mmHg in the left; for both eyes, it was 26.81 ± 4.11 mmHg, with a reference range of 26.07–27.55 mm/30 s. No statistically significant differences were observed between the IOP and STT values of the right and left eyes. This study provides a reference range for the STT and IOP in healthy red deer, showing that STT determination of tear production, and rebound tonometry to evaluate the IOP methods, are practical methods for ophthalmic examination in deer. Full article

10 pages, 660 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Exposure to Coxiella burnetii in Wild Lagomorphs in Spanish Mediterranean Ecosystems

by Sabrina Castro-Scholten, Javier Caballero-Gómez, David Cano-Terriza, Débora Jiménez-Martín, Carlos Rouco, Adrián Beato-Benítez, Leonor Camacho-Sillero and Ignacio García-Bocanegra

Animals 2024, 14(5), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050749 - 28 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1985

Abstract

Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen of worldwide distribution that can infect a wide range of wild and domestic species. The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can play a role as a reservoir for this bacterium in certain epidemiological scenarios, [...] Read more.

Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen of worldwide distribution that can infect a wide range of wild and domestic species. The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can play a role as a reservoir for this bacterium in certain epidemiological scenarios, but, to date, a very limited numbers of large-scale serosurveys have been conducted for this species worldwide. Although exposure in hare species has also been described, C. burnetii in Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) has never been assessed. Here, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain. Between the 2018/2019 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons, blood samples from 638 wild lagomorphs, including 471 wild rabbits and 167 Iberian hares, were collected from 112 hunting grounds distributed across all eight provinces of Andalusia (southern Spain). The overall apparent individual seroprevalence was 8.9% (57/638; 95% CI: 6.8–11.4). Antibodies against C. burnetii were found in 11.3% (53/471; 95% CI: 8.4–14.1) of the wild rabbits and 2.4% (4/167; 95% CI: 0.1–4.7) of the Iberian hares. Seropositive animals were detected for 16 (14.3%; 95% CI: 7.8–20.8) of the 112 hunting grounds tested and in all the hunting seasons sampled. A generalized estimating equations model showed that the geographical area (western Andalusia) and presence of sheep were risk factors potentially associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs. A statistically significant spatial cluster (p < 0.001) was identified in the south-west of Andalusia. Our results provide evidence of moderate, endemic and heterogeneous circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Risk-based strategies for integrative surveillance programs should be implemented in these species to reduce the risk of transmission of the bacterium to sympatric species, including humans. Full article

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18 pages, 3115 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

ESBL-Type and AmpC-Type Beta-Lactamases in Third Generation Cephalosporin-Resistant Enterobacterales Isolated from Animal Feces in Madagascar

by Ulrich Schotte, Julian Ehlers, Johanna Nieter, Raphaël Rakotozandrindrainy, Silver A. Wolf, Torsten Semmler, Hagen Frickmann, Sven Poppert and Christa Ewers

Animals 2024, 14(5), 741; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050741 - 27 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1456

Abstract

Third generation cephalosporin-resistant (3GCR) Enterobacterales are known to be prevalent in Madagascar, with high colonization or infection rates in particular in Madagascan patients. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) have been reported to be the predominant underlying resistance mechanism in human isolates. So far, little [...] Read more.

Third generation cephalosporin-resistant (3GCR) Enterobacterales are known to be prevalent in Madagascar, with high colonization or infection rates in particular in Madagascan patients. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) have been reported to be the predominant underlying resistance mechanism in human isolates. So far, little is known on antimicrobial resistance and its molecular determinants in Enterobacterales and other bacteria causing enteric colonization of Madagascan wild animals. To address this topic, swabs from 49 animal stool droppings were collected in the Madagascan Tsimanapesotsa National Park and assessed by cultural growth of bacterial microorganisms on elective media. In addition to 7 Acinetobacter spp., a total of 31 Enterobacterales growing on elective agar for Enterobacterales could be isolated and subjected to whole genome sequencing. Enterobacter spp. was the most frequently isolated genus, and AmpC-type beta-lactamases were the quantitatively dominating molecular resistance mechanism. In contrast, the bla_CTX-M-15 gene, which has repeatedly been associated with 3GC-resistance in Madagascan Enterobacterales from humans, was detected in a single Escherichia coli isolate only. The identification of the fosfomycin-resistance gene fosA in a high proportion of isolates is concerning, as fosfomycin is increasingly used to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria. In conclusion, the proof-of-principle assessment indicated a high colonization rate of resistant bacteria in stool droppings of Madagascan wild animals with a particular focus on 3GCR Enterobacterales. Future studies should confirm these preliminary results in a more systematic way and assess the molecular relationship of animal and human isolates to identify potential routes of transmission. Full article

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11 pages, 1683 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Possible Spreading of SARS-CoV-2 from Humans to Captive Non-Human Primates in the Peruvian Amazon

by Andrea Tavera Gonzales, Jhonathan Bazalar Gonzales, Thalía Silvestre Espejo, Milagros Leiva Galarza, Carmen Rodríguez Cueva, Dennis Carhuaricra Huamán, Luis Luna Espinoza and Abelardo Maturrano Hernández

Animals 2024, 14(5), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050732 - 27 Feb 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1953

Abstract

Human-to-animal transmission events of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) have been reported in both domestic and wild species worldwide. Despite the high rates of contagion and mortality during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Diseases 2019) pandemic in Peru, no instances of natural virus [...] Read more.

Human-to-animal transmission events of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) have been reported in both domestic and wild species worldwide. Despite the high rates of contagion and mortality during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Diseases 2019) pandemic in Peru, no instances of natural virus infection have been documented in wild animals, particularly in the Amazonian regions where human–wildlife interactions are prevalent. In this study, we conducted a surveillance investigation using viral RNA sequencing of fecal samples collected from 76 captive and semi-captive non-human primates (NHPs) in the Loreto, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios regions between August 2022 and February 2023. We detected a segment of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene of SARS-CoV-2 by metagenomic sequencing in a pooled fecal sample from captive white-fronted capuchins (Cebus unicolor) at a rescue center in Bello Horizonte, Ucayali. Phylogenetic analysis further confirmed that the retrieved partial sequence of the RdRp gene matched the SARS-CoV-2 genome. This study represents the first documented instance of molecular SARS-CoV-2 detection in NHPs in the Peruvian Amazon, underscoring the adverse impact of anthropic activities on the human–NHP interface and emphasizing the importance of ongoing surveillance for early detection and prediction of future emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants in animals. Full article

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15 pages, 958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Different Chronic Wasting Disease Training Aids for Use with Detection Dogs

by Amritha Mallikarjun, Ila Charendoff, Madison B. Moore, Clara Wilson, Elizabeth Nguyen, Abigail J. Hendrzak, Jean Poulson, Michelle Gibison and Cynthia M. Otto

Animals 2024, 14(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14020300 - 18 Jan 2024

Viewed by 1604

Abstract

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a highly infectious, fatal prion disease that affects cervid species. One promising method for CWD surveillance is the use of detection dog–handler teams wherein dogs are trained on the volatile organic compound signature of CWD fecal matter. However, [...] Read more.

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is a highly infectious, fatal prion disease that affects cervid species. One promising method for CWD surveillance is the use of detection dog–handler teams wherein dogs are trained on the volatile organic compound signature of CWD fecal matter. However, using fecal matter from CWD-positive deer poses a biohazard risk; CWD prions can bind to soil particles and remain infectious in contaminated areas for extended periods of time, and it is very difficult to decontaminate the affected areas. One solution is to use noninfectious training aids that can replicate the odor of fecal matter from CWD-positive and CWD-negative deer and are safe to use in the environment. Trained CWD detection dogs’ sensitivity and specificity for different training aid materials (cotton, GetXent tubes, and polydimethylsiloxane, or PDMS) incubated with fecal matter from CWD-positive and CWD-negative deer at two different temperatures (21 °C and 37 °C) for three different lengths of time (6 h, 24 h, and 48 h) were evaluated. Cotton incubated at 21 °C for 24 h was identified as the best aid for CWD based on the dogs’ performance and practical needs for training aid creation. Implications for CWD detection training and for training aid selection in general are discussed. Full article

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2023

Jump to: 2024

27 pages, 3427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trends in Admissions and Outcomes at a British Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre over a Ten-Year Period (2012–2022)

by Elizabeth Mullineaux and Chris Pawson

Animals 2024, 14(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010086 - 26 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2645

Abstract

Millions of animals pass through wildlife rehabilitation centres (WRCs) globally each year, some dying in captivity, others euthanised, and some released into the wild. Those caring for these animals are generally well-intentioned, but skills, knowledge, and resources may be limited, potentially compromising animal [...] Read more.

Millions of animals pass through wildlife rehabilitation centres (WRCs) globally each year, some dying in captivity, others euthanised, and some released into the wild. Those caring for these animals are generally well-intentioned, but skills, knowledge, and resources may be limited, potentially compromising animal welfare. WRC databases provide an opportunity to provide an evidence base for treatment and conservation efforts. 42,841 records of animals admitted over a 10-year period to a British WRC were analysed. More birds (69.16%) were admitted than mammals (30.48%) and reptiles and amphibians (0.36%). Most admissions were in the summer (48.8%) and spring (26.0%) months. A total of 9 of the 196 species seen made up 57% of admissions, and hedgehogs were the most common species admitted (14% of all admissions and 20% of mammals). Juvenile animals (35.5%) were admitted more frequently than ‘orphans’ (26.0%) or adults (26.4%). ‘Orphaned’ was also the predominant reason for admission (28.3%), followed by ‘injured’ (25.5%). 42.6% of animals were eventually released back to the wild, 19.2% died in captivity, and 37.2% were euthanised; 1% of outcomes were unknown. The prognosis was better for orphaned animals than for those admitted because of injury. Unexpected natural deaths in captivity were found to decline over the period of study, consistent with improved early triage. These findings can be used to focus veterinary and WRC training and seasonal resources on the species and case types most likely to be successfully rehabilitated and released. The findings also have the potential to contribute to our understanding of anthropogenic impacts, historical and regional variations in ecosystem health, and resultant implications for animal welfare. Full article

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17 pages, 1413 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Retrospective Analysis of Admission Trends and Outcomes in a Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Costa Rica

by Maria Miguel Costa, Nazaré Pinto da Cunha, Isabel Hagnauer and Marta Venegas

Animals 2024, 14(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010051 - 22 Dec 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1773

Abstract

The evaluation of data regarding rehabilitation practices provides reference values for comparison purposes among different rehabilitation centers to critically review protocols and efficiently improve each center. The aim of the present work was to present the main causes of admission to Rescate Wildlife [...] Read more.

The evaluation of data regarding rehabilitation practices provides reference values for comparison purposes among different rehabilitation centers to critically review protocols and efficiently improve each center. The aim of the present work was to present the main causes of admission to Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center for each taxonomic group, to determine the admission factors that influenced the release and mortality, and to determine the predictive factors of release and mortality of wildlife. To this end, a retrospective study was carried out based on 5785 admissions registered in the database of Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica in 2020 and 2021. Statistical analysis consisted of sample characterization via the analysis of several categorical variables: species, order, class, age group, cause of admission, outcome, clinical classification and days in the hospital, and respective association with the mortality or release rate. Most of the rescue animals were birds (59.3%), then mammals (20.7%), reptiles (17.4%), and finally ‘others’ (2.6%). The main causes of admission were ‘captivity’ (34.9%), ‘found’ (23.3%), and ‘trauma’ (19.3%). Animals rescued due to ‘captivity’ and the classes ‘birds’ and ‘reptiles’ had the highest release rates. The causes of admission ‘trauma’ and ‘orphanhood’ and the class ‘birds’ had the highest mortality rates. In general, a greater number of days spent in the hospital and membership in the classes ‘reptiles’, ‘juveniles’, in need of ‘basic care’, or ‘clinically healthy’ were predictors of survival. In contrast, the age groups ‘infant’ and ‘nestling’ were predictors of mortality. These results demonstrate the value of maintaining, improving, and studying databases from wildlife rehabilitation centers, as they can provide useful information that can be used to enhance the allocation of economic resources, treatment methods, disease surveillance, public education, and regulatory decision-making, leading to a better understanding of threats to wildlife and subsequent implementation of conservation actions. Full article

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15 pages, 704 KiB

Open AccessReview

Assessing Disease Risks in Wildlife Translocation Projects: A Comprehensive Review of Disease Incidents

by Regina Kate Warne and Anne-Lise Chaber

Animals 2023, 13(21), 3379; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13213379 - 31 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1780

Abstract

Although translocation projects have been instrumental in the supplementation or restoration of some wild populations, they also carry a large risk of disease transmission to native and translocated animals. This study systematically reviewed conservation translocation projects to identify projects that met the criteria [...] Read more.

Although translocation projects have been instrumental in the supplementation or restoration of some wild populations, they also carry a large risk of disease transmission to native and translocated animals. This study systematically reviewed conservation translocation projects to identify projects that met the criteria for a translocation significant disease incursion (TSDI), whereby the translocation resulted in negative population growth rates or the failure of populations to grow due to an infectious disease—either in the native or translocated species. In doing so, risk factors for these incidents could be identified. Analysis of the resulting 30 TSDIs demonstrated that there was equal representation of TSDIs using wild-caught and captive-bred animals. Additionally, the type of pathogen predisposed in a TSDI was more likely a result of the animal group translocated (e.g., fungal pathogens were more likely to be detected in amphibian translocations) and it was nearly five times more likely for a disease to be encountered by a translocated species than for a disease to be introduced to a native population. However, there are numerous project-specific predisposing factors for TSDIs, and therefore it is essential that future translocation projects conduct thorough disease risk analysis as well as report their outcomes for the benefit of their own and future translocations. Full article

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12 pages, 2665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Serologic Survey of Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae in Wild Boars Hunted for Private Consumption in Portugal

by João Canotilho, Ana Carolina Abrantes, David Risco, Pedro Fernández-Llario, José Aranha and Madalena Vieira-Pinto

Animals 2023, 13(18), 2936; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13182936 - 16 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1471

Abstract

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a relevant zoonotic infectious agent causing swine erysipelas (SE) in wild boar. In Portugal, there is no information on its occurrence. For this reason, this study aims to perform a first serosurvey of SE in hunted wild boars in Portugal. [...] Read more.

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is a relevant zoonotic infectious agent causing swine erysipelas (SE) in wild boar. In Portugal, there is no information on its occurrence. For this reason, this study aims to perform a first serosurvey of SE in hunted wild boars in Portugal. During the 2019/2020 hunting season, 111 sera from hunted wild boar were collected and analysed serologically in the laboratory with a commercial ELISA kit. No animals were eviscerated and examined after the hunt. The hunters took it all for private consumption. The results identified 18 animals that were exposed to SE, corresponding to a seroprevalence of 16.2% (95% CI: 19.9–24.4%). No statistical significance was observed on the effect of gender and age on seropositivity. However, wild boar hunted in Pinhel County, had five times more likely to be seropositivity (p-value < 0.05; OD = 5.4). Apart from its potential debilitating capacity and chronicity in the wild boar population, SE is also a very serious occupational zoonosis. Thus, the result of this first serosurvey in Portugal should raise awareness and alert competent national veterinary authorities and those involved in the hunting sector, especially hunters who directly handle these carcasses. Further studies should be conducted to better understand the role of wild boar as a reservoir and spillover of this disease to other animals and humans. Full article

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8 pages, 954 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

First Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in White Rhinoceros during a Small-Scale Coronavirus Surveillance in the Bandia Reserve, Senegal

by Jignesh Italiya, Vojtěch Vacek, Petr Matějů, Christophe Dering, Seyma S. Celina, Arame Ndiaye and Jiří Černý

Animals 2023, 13(16), 2593; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13162593 - 11 Aug 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1900

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has heightened interest in the monitoring and surveillance of coronaviruses in wildlife. Testing for the virus in animals can provide valuable insights into viral reservoirs, transmission, and pathogenesis. In this study, we present the results of the molecular surveillance project [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has heightened interest in the monitoring and surveillance of coronaviruses in wildlife. Testing for the virus in animals can provide valuable insights into viral reservoirs, transmission, and pathogenesis. In this study, we present the results of the molecular surveillance project focused on coronaviruses in Senegalese wildlife. During the project, we screened fecal samples of the wild animals living in the Bandia Reserve (ten non-human primates, one giraffe, and two white rhinoceros) and the free-living urban population of African four-toed hedgehogs in Ngaparou. The results showed the absence of coronaviruses in hedgehogs, non-human primates, and a giraffe. A single positive sample was obtained from a white rhinoceros. The sequencing results of amplified RdRp gene confirmed that the detected virus was SARS-CoV-2. This study represents the first documented instance of molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in white rhinoceros and, therefore, extends our knowledge of possible SARS-CoV-2 hosts. Full article

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14 pages, 3821 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Admission Causes, Morbidity, and Outcomes in Scavenger Birds in the North of Portugal (2005–2022)

by Andreia Garcês, Isabel Pires, Roberto Sargo, Luís Sousa, Justina Prada and Filipe Silva

Animals 2023, 13(13), 2093; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132093 - 24 Jun 2023

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Abstract

Portugal is the habitat of three species of vultures. According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Neophron percnopterus is an Endangered species, Aegypius monachus is nearly Threatened, and Gyps fulvus is of Least Concern. This study aims to investigate the admission [...] Read more.

Portugal is the habitat of three species of vultures. According to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, Neophron percnopterus is an Endangered species, Aegypius monachus is nearly Threatened, and Gyps fulvus is of Least Concern. This study aims to investigate the admission causes, morbidity, and outcomes of vultures admitted to a wildlife rehabilitation centre and necropsy service in Northern Portugal. Over 17 years (2005–2022), 84 animals were admitted: 10 A. monachus, 69 G. fulvus, and 5 N. percnopterus. The main causes of admission to the centre were 80% (n = 63) unknown cause, 13% (n = 10) found debilitated, 6 % (n = 5) vehicle collision, 4% (n = 3) captivity, 1% (n = 1) gunshot, and 1% (n = 1) electrocution. Most animals were admitted during the summer (45.2%) and autumn (36.9%). Analysis of outcome data showed that 73% (n = 58) of the animals that arrived alive at the centre could be rehabilitated and released back into the wild. Thirteen animals died during treatment and five were found dead. This is the first time that such a lengthy study of results and mortality has been carried out for these species in Portugal. Although the data are limited, they can already provide some information about these populations, particularly for the endangered species that are so rare to observe. Full article

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Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Management of Wildlife, Exotic and Zoo Animals Disease

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