Pathology and parasitology of free-ranging coyotes from Tennessee and South Carolina.

ABSTRACT: Coyotes are exposed to many parasites and pathogens of veterinary and zoonotic concern. To assess the prevalence of the diseases caused by these microbes, we opportunistically obtained coyote samples from a variety of sources including a GPS collaring study, rabies testing facilities, wildlife resources agents, and road-side mortalities. We performed necropsies, serological testing, fecal flotations, and molecular analyses on coyotes from Tennessee and South Carolina. Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) infected 46% (41/89) of coyotes and was associated with eosinophilic alveolitis and arteritis. Paragonimus kellicotti, a zoonotic lung fluke, was found in 24% (17/71) of Tennessee coyotes, including one coyote with extrapulmonary infection affecting the liver and lymph nodes. Trichinella spp.,

SUBMITTER: Baker E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11809884 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature