First description of sarcoptic mange in wild European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

摘要: The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a keystone species in the Iberian Mediterranean ecosystems being staple prey of protected and endangered predators. Wild rabbits were once widespread, but introduction two viral diseases, myxomatosis 1950s hemorrhagic disease 1989, resulted into dramatic decline its populations. Sarcoptic mange highly contagious parasitic infection caused by Sarcoptes scabiei. first cases sarcoptic population are recorded from hunting area Majorca (Balearic Islands, Spain). Five 32 inspected (14.7%) affected, with similar prevalences summer autumn. scabiei obtained edge lesions rabbits. most frequently observed small areas alopecia crusts limbs. Affected limbs presented also marked hypertrichosis an apparent abnormal growth nails. One around mouth nostrils. Parasitized significant lower body condition than healthy ones. According to previous reports epizooties other naive that short-term effects their populations, this may pose risk for conservation Whether endemic or it has been introduced unknown. Game managers encouraged be aware introducing during translocations.