Demodex sp. in California ground squirrels

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Acarology
• Wildlife Biology

Background:

• Demodex mites are common ectoparasites found in mammals.
• Previous research has documented Demodex infestations in various rodent species.
• The presence and impact of Demodex mites in ground squirrels remain largely uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and describe a potentially new species of Demodex mite.
• To document the occurrence of Demodex mites in California ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi).
• To assess the pathological effects associated with Demodex infestation in this host species.

Main Methods:

• Necropsy of seven California ground squirrels from Santa Clara County, California.
• Microscopic examination of ear canals and eyelids for mite presence.
• Histopathological evaluation of affected tissues to determine pathological changes.

Main Results:

• An undescribed species of Demodex mite was identified in the hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the ear canals.
• Mites were also found in the Meibomian glands of the eyelids in two squirrels.
• Minimal microscopic changes were observed in the affected tissues, with no clinical signs or macroscopic lesions noted.

Conclusions:

• This study reports the first occurrence of Demodex mites in ground squirrels.
• The findings suggest a potential new species of Demodex parasitizing Spermophilus beecheyi.
• The mites appear to cause minimal pathology in the observed cases.