Sarcoptic mange in two roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from northern Spain

Abstract

Sarcoptic mange, a disease shared with domestic goat and sheep, affects chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica parva) in northern Spain. Recent evidences suggest that mange may be emerging among deer in this region. This communication describes two cases of fatal sarcoptic mange affecting roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) stags in Asturias (Northern Spain) in 2006. Both animals were in poor body condition and no significant lesions other than those caused by the mites were observed. Alopecia, along with cutaneous crusts and hyperkeratosis were present in head, neck, trunk, and legs, affecting almost all the body surface. Numerous Sarcoptes scabiei mites were isolated from the skin. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed description of fatal sarcoptic mange in European roe deer.