Coproculature and study of seasonal variation in parasitic burden in spotted dear (Cervus axis) in different sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu

摘要

Faecal samples from spotted deer (Cervus axis) were collected at different seasons from wildlife parks and zoos and examined for parasites. The average epg counts of gastrointestinal nematodes ranged from 2±1.33 to 32±4.42, and were slightly higherin the free range than in the captive animals, which were treated with antiparasitic agents every 6 months. The highest counts were found after the rains, when there was growth of pasture and conditions conducive for increased pasture contamination. Third stage larvae of Strongyloides sp., Trichostrongylus sp. and Cooperia sp. were recovered in samples from various sanctuaries.