A survey on ectoparasites in captive mammals at Rabat zoo in Morocco

Investigating the abundance and diversity of ectoparasites in captive animals is of relevance for improving their well-being and health management. Since little is known about the ectoparasites of zoo mammals in Morocco, a survey was conducted from November 2021 to May 2022 during which 16 individuals belonging to 14 mammal species were examined for arthropod parasites at the Rabat Zoological Garden. Ectoparasites were directly collected from the skin and fur and analyzed microscopically. A total of 6 ectoparasite genera were found to infest 8 mammal species with a prevalence of 57.14% (8/14). This investigation on ectoparasites in wild mammals is the first of its kind in Morocco and demonstrates the need to improve control measures of ectoparasites in the zoo.