Parasites-Ectoparasites
A nestling Barn Owl presents with evidence of an ear infection. Upon close examination a parasite is removed. What might it be?
• Answer:
Botflies:
Botflies may lay their eggs on nestlings and the hatched larvae can invade the ear cavity, nose and ventral surface of the body and feather sheath areas. Physical removal and treatment of the infection is curative.
The black fly (simuliidae) is the main vector of what blood parasite?
• Answer:
Leucocytozoon:
Leucocytozoon can be transmitted by the black fly. The black fly can also transmit Trypanosoma and filarial nematodes. Overwhelming infections of this blood parasite can be fatal to the raptor.
Tissue mites that invade the skin may cause feather loss, crusting and thickening of the skin. The best treatment for this type of mite is?
• Answer:
Ivermectin or Selamectin:
Ivermectin at 0.4 mg/Kg weekly (1-7 weeks) may be effective to treat the mites. In severe cases, topical Selamectin (23 mg/Kg) 2-4 weeks apart for two doses may need to be added to the treatment plan.
The appearance of small white eggs on the feathers of raptors suggests infestation of what ectoparasite?
• Answer:
Chewing lice:
The chewing lice (Mallophaga) will feed on the feathers causing damage and increased scratching. Heavy infestation can cause anemia, weight loss and death
An ectoparasite the hides in the nest or crack near the host and feeds at night near the eyes, base of the legs and wings is called?
• Answer:
Cimicid bug
The Cimicid bug, also know as the Mexican chicken bug, is a source of concern and mortality in raptors, especially the nestlings. This bug will suck blood from the host.
