Parasitology, Virology, and Serology of Free-Ranging Coyotes (Canis latrans) from Central Georgia, USA

Abstract

ABSTRACT:We examined 31 free-ranging coyotes (Canis latrans) from central Georgia, USA, for select parasites and viral agents. Sixteen coyotes had adult heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Serum samples from 27 animals revealed antibodies against canine parvovirus (100%), canine distemper virus (48%), canine adenovirus (37%), and Trypanosoma cruzi (7%); none were detected against Leishmania spp. Twenty-two of 24 (92%) coyotes were positive for Toxoplasma gondii. Real-time PCR of feces revealed 32% of coyotes were shedding canine parvovirus, and sequencing revealed type 2b and 2c. Because coyotes could be a spillover host of domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) pathogens, studies of the transmission of pathogens between coyotes and domestic dogs are warranted.

PARASITOLOGY AND SEROLOGY OF FREE-RANGING COYOTES (CANIS LATRANS) IN NORTH CAROLINA, USA

“…The 47% heartworm prevalence we detected is similar to values reported in other coyote populations from the region (Holzman et al 1992;Miller et al 2009;Gates et al 2014). However, the antigen test we used could have biased prevalence low if coyotes had male-only heartworm infections or low numbers of female worms.…”

“…The prevalence of antibody to CPV (96%) at Fort Bragg was similar to other studies of coyotes (Holzman et al 1992;Gese et al 1997;Cypher et al 1998;Grinder and Krausman 2001;Gates et al 2014). Our study and several others did not evaluate virus shedding, but Miller et al (2009) reported that one of 36 coyotes in their South Carolina population was shedding based on electron microscopic examination of feces.…”

“…However, the antigen test we used could have biased prevalence low if coyotes had male-only heartworm infections or low numbers of female worms. Coyote expansion into urban areas places them into proximity with domestic dogs, which increases the potential for mosquito transmission of heartworms (Gates et al 2014). Likewise, proximity of coyotes and domestic dogs facilitates the potential to share endo-and ectoparasites, although our study identified ticks and intestinal parasites similar to previous reports from the southeastern US (Gates et al 2014).…”

“…Our study and several others did not evaluate virus shedding, but Miller et al (2009) reported that one of 36 coyotes in their South Carolina population was shedding based on electron microscopic examination of feces. Notably, Gates et al (2014) reported 32% of Georgia coyotes were positive for CPV DNA via real-time PCR testing of feces, which suggested coyotes were shedding virus. Because sequencing results revealed CPV type 2 subtypes have been detected in domestic dogs in Georgia (Hong et al 2007;Kapil et al 2007), Gates et al (2014) noted the potential for coyotes to serve as a reservoir or spillover host for CPV.…”

“…Notably, Gates et al (2014) reported 32% of Georgia coyotes were positive for CPV DNA via real-time PCR testing of feces, which suggested coyotes were shedding virus. Because sequencing results revealed CPV type 2 subtypes have been detected in domestic dogs in Georgia (Hong et al 2007;Kapil et al 2007), Gates et al (2014) noted the potential for coyotes to serve as a reservoir or spillover host for CPV. Thus, the lack of understanding about the coyote's role in the epidemiology of CPV warrants continued monitoring and research.…”