Demodectic mange in a white-tailed deer from Walker County, Texas

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Wildlife Diseases
• Acari Research

Background:

• Demodectic mange, caused by Demodex mites, is a known skin condition in various mammals.
• White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) are important game animals in North America, making their health a significant concern.

Observation:

• The first documented instance of demodectic mange in a white-tailed deer in Texas is reported.
• The affected deer, a 6-year-old male, exhibited symptoms across approximately 35% of its skin.
• Hematological analysis revealed an eosinophilia, indicative of ectoparasitic and bacterial infections.

Findings:

• Deep skin scrapings confirmed the presence of Demodex mites.
• Morphological characteristics suggest the mite is Demodex odocoilei, a species known to parasitize deer.
• The mange may have negatively impacted the deer's overall body condition.

Implications:

• This finding expands the known geographic range of demodectic mange in white-tailed deer.
• Understanding mite-host specificity is crucial for wildlife health management.
• Early diagnosis and management strategies may be necessary for affected deer populations.