Ectoparasites from elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni) from Wyoming

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Entomology
• Wildlife Parasitology
• Mammalian Ecology

Background:

• Elk (Cervus canadensis) populations can be affected by ectoparasites.
• Understanding parasite prevalence is crucial for wildlife health management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and quantify ectoparasites infesting elk.
• To describe the dermatological lesions associated with these parasites.

Main Methods:

• Examination of nine elk hides collected from the National Elk Refuge, Wyoming.
• Identification of recovered mites, lice, and ticks.
• Assessment of mite density and lesion characteristics.

Main Results:

• Mites (Psoroptes sp.), lice (Solenopotes ferrisi, Bovicola longicornis), and winter ticks (Dermacentor albipictus) were identified.
• Three elk exhibited severe scabies with high mite loads (up to 6.5 x 10^6).
• Distinct skin lesions were observed, including scabs from mites and alopecia from ticks.

Conclusions:

• Elk in this region are hosts to multiple ectoparasite species.
• Severe infestations, particularly Psoroptes mites, can cause significant dermatological damage.
• Winter ticks also induce characteristic hair loss patterns.