First report of Cephenemyia stimulator (Diptera, Oestridae) parasitizing Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in Extremadura (Spain)

Abstract

We describe the first two cases of parasitization by the dipterous parasite Cephenemyia stimulator in roe deer Capreolus capreolus (Linnaeus, 1758) in Extremadura. The first case was detected in an adult male from a private hunting estate (39o24’ N, 5o32’ W) in Berzocana (Cáceres, Spain). A total of 77 C. stimulator larvae were counted, of which 34 corresponded to instar II (L-II) and 43 to instar III (L-III), all of which were located in the upper airways. The second case was detected in another male roe deer from a local hunting estate (39o19’ N, 5o22’ W) in Logrosán (Cáceres, Spain), from which a total of 37 larvae (2 L-II and 35 L-III) were collected, all of which were located in the oronasal cavities. This paper not only provides the first report of this parasite in Extremadura, but also describes the southernmost occurrence of a potentially autochthonous infestation by C. stimulator in European roe deer. We recommend implementing surveillance measures in roe deer populations in Spain and creating strict biosecurity guidelines on translocations, especially regarding animals from affected areas. The presence of C. stimulator in Extremadura suggests it has adapted well to the ecological conditions of the southern Iberian Peninsula.