Endoparasites of red deer (Cervus elaphus xanthopygus) in the Trans-Baikal Territory

Abstract

The paper presents the results (2019-2021) of parasitological studies of pathological material from 91 individuals of red deer (Cervus elaphus xanthopygus). Infestation of red deer with eight species of endoparasites has been registered in the Trans-Baikal Territory was registered: Protostrongylus kochi, suborder Strongylata of the digestive tract, Moniezia benedeni, Trichostrongylus spp., Dicrocoelium lanceatum, Echinococcus granulosus larva, Cysticercus tenuicollis, Eimeria spp. The intensity of infestation is 86.8% (Cysticercus tenuicollis) and 57.1% (Echinococcus granulosus larva), indicating the presence of natural foci on these helminths and their widespread distribution. Helminths Dicrocoelium lanceatum unspecific for Trans-Baikal Territory were detected in the bile ducts of the liver of one of the examined red deer. This fact indicates the presence of all conditions (the presence of intermediate hosts) for the spread of invasion, including on farm animals. To maintain the veterinary and sanitary well-being of the hunting industry in the Trans-Baikal Territory, the main principles of prevention of registered helminth infections were formulated based on the data obtained. To prevent the spread of echinococcosis, cysticercosis (larval cestodoses) among wild ungulates, increased control of wolves, foxes and stray dogs, as well as mandatory systematic deworming of dogs (quarterly) allowed in hunting farms is necessary. In order to prevent larval cestodoses it is necessary to destroy entrails of hunted animals and not use them raw as food for dogs. To prevent imaginal helminth infestations in ungulates, continuous monitoring of helminth carriage is necessary. Based on the results of these studies, a plan of helminthic measures is drawn up. For deworming wild animals, oral anthelmintic drugs are used, which are laid out on feeding grounds mixed with loose feed (crushed grain).