Systemic toxoplasmosis in captive flying‐foxes

Abstract

Systemic toxoplasmosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii was diagnosed in two juvenile, captive flying-foxes (Pteropus conspicillatus and P. scapulatus), which died following respiratory distress. One animal displayed clinical signs suggestive of neurological disease. This is the first report of this disease in megachiropteran bats and adds to the list of differential diagnoses for both systemic and neurological disease in these animals. The role of captivity in the exposure and development of the disease is discussed.