Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.9
2.7
Journals
Animals
Special Issues
Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas
share announcement

Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615). This special issue belongs to the section "Wildlife".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 June 2025 | Viewed by 8403

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Omar Gonzales Viera

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, Davis Lab, 620 W Health Science Dr, Davis, CA 95616, USA
Interests: anatomic pathology; wildlife; infectious diseases; viruses; bacteria; parasites; farm animals; camelids; respiratory pathology
Prof. Dr. Anibal G. Armien

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System, Davis Lab, 620 W Health Science Dr, Davis, CA 95616, USA
Interests: anatomic pathology; invertebrates; wildlife; zoo and exotic animals; electron microscopy; toxic plants; viruses; neuropathology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The Americas encompass a vast territory from North America to South America. The variety of climates, topography, hydrology, and ecology make the Americas the most biodiverse region in the world, which is reflected in the incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Since the fifteenth century with the Columbian Exchange, food, populations, and minerals, in addition to diseases like measles, plague, malaria, and smallpox, have been exchanged between the Americas and Europe. Currently, highly pathogenic diseases such as avian influenza, chytridiomycosis, and SARS-COVID-19 traverse borders, with wild animals playing the role of reservoirs and recipients of such imported diseases. Modernization and globalization of the Americas have created new menaces for native species populations. The fragmentation of landscapes causes inbreeding, the development of cancer, nutritional adaptations to hostile environments, and environmental pollution in terrestrial and aquatic species resulting in immunosuppression. All the above and other threats affecting wild animals in the Americas generate unique pathologies with important consequences for individual species, which impact wild populations, humans, domestic animals, and the environment. We believe that the holistic nature of anatomic pathology can help to better understand infectious and non-infectious diseases that affect both the wildlife population in the Americas and the balance among humans, animals, and environmental health.

This Special Issue aims to center anatomic pathology with its procedures and techniques to further the understanding of the diseases affecting wild populations inhabiting the Americas. Studies using captive and semi-captive populations might be considered as long as the results have significant relevance for wild populations of the species. In this Special Issue, original full research articles, case reports, and reviews are welcome. If you are not sure if your article would fit, you are welcome to email the guest editors. We look forward to receiving your contributions. 

Dr. Omar Gonzales Viera
Prof. Dr. Anibal G. Armien
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Animals is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • anatomic pathology
  • wildlife
  • infectious diseases
  • metabolic/nutritional diseases
  • toxicology
  • neoplasms
  • nthropogenic activities

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Other

22 pages, 4414 KiB  
Article
Postmortem Findings in Free-Ranging North American Beavers (Castor canadensis) Reveal Potential Threats to California’s Freshwater Ecosystems
by Omar A. Gonzales-Viera, Leslie W. Woods, Aslı Mete, Heather Fritz, Anibal G. Armien, Emma Lantz, Luis A. Gomez-Puerta, Daniel Famini, Jaime Sherman, Jaime L. Rudd, Lauren E. Camp, Karen Shapiro and Deana L. Clifford
Animals 2025, 15(3), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15030338 - 24 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1265
Abstract
North American beavers (Castor canadensis) are semi-aquatic rodents recognized as keystone species because they increase the diversity of freshwater ecosystems. This study aimed to characterize the mortality and pathological findings in free-ranging beavers in California and, based on these results, identify [...] Read more.
North American beavers (Castor canadensis) are semi-aquatic rodents recognized as keystone species because they increase the diversity of freshwater ecosystems. This study aimed to characterize the mortality and pathological findings in free-ranging beavers in California and, based on these results, identify potential threats to freshwater ecosystems. This study included 18 beavers submitted for postmortem examination at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, UC Davis, between 2008 and 2024. Gross and microscopic examinations, and bacteriological, parasitological, immunohistochemical, and molecular techniques, were used as tools to diagnose the cause of death/reason for euthanasia and comorbidities in the beavers. Baylisascaris spp.-associated or -suspected encephalitis was the most prevalent (9/18, 50%) cause of mortality/reason for euthanasia, followed by bacterial infections in six individuals. In these six animals, bacterial bronchopneumonia was diagnosed in two (Staphylococcus aureus and a mix of Gram-negative and -positive bacterial infection) and Listeria monocytogenes encephalitis, bacterial myofascitis (Aeromonas bestiarum and Pasteurella multocida), bacterial encephalitis (Acinetobacter towneri), and tularemia (Francisella tularensis) were diagnosed in one beaver each. Three animals died or were euthanized due to non-infectious causes, including motor vehicle trauma, squamous cell carcinoma, and capture cardiomyopathy. Endoparasitism was the main comorbidity, including granulomatous hepatitis caused by a suspected capillarid species, cerebral toxoplasmosis, Giardia infection, gastric nematodiasis, and cecal trematodiasis. In California, beavers are exposed to various pathogens that represent threats to humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. Since the interspecies transmission of these pathogens occurs in rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, we suggest that studying beaver health can reflect freshwater ecosystem health. This study also indicates that the translocation of beavers to new areas without consideration and/or mitigation represents a potential risk of pathogen introduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 7806 KiB  
Article
Neonatal Abandonment and Hydrocephalus in Antillean Manatees (Trichechus manatus manatus): Is There a Causal Relationship?
by Tiago F. S. Santos, Márcio A. O. Moura, Gabriel S. F. Tavares, Julyanne S. Siqueira, Natália M. F. P. Sarmento, Robert G. S. Prado, Alexandra F. Costa, Tayanna M. M. M. Amaral, Renata Emin-Lima, Maura E. M. Sousa, Reginaldo H. M. Moreira Júnior, Pedro S. Bezerra Júnior, Gabriela Riet-Correa and Valíria D. Cerqueira
Animals 2025, 15(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15020161 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 703
Abstract
Manatees are semi-social animals, with the mother–calf relationship being considered long-lasting for the species. However, some events lead to the separation of this pair. Orphaned manatee calves can be adopted by other females of the same species. However, if this does not happen [...] Read more.
Manatees are semi-social animals, with the mother–calf relationship being considered long-lasting for the species. However, some events lead to the separation of this pair. Orphaned manatee calves can be adopted by other females of the same species. However, if this does not happen and a healthy calf strand is rescued, immediate release represents the best option for the individual. But when immediate release becomes unviable, the animals are taken to rehabilitation centers and can die from various causes. A newborn Antillean manatee was rescued in the north of Brazil, and the attempt at immediate release was unsuccessful; three months later, the animal died. At necropsy, it was observed that the brain was soft and friable, collapsing when placed on a surface, with the corpus callosum region able to be ruptured easily and the cerebral hemispheres lying flaccid. The analysis of serial sections of the brain showed dilated lateral ventricles and a reduction in white matter, making it possible to affirm the presence of congenital hydrocephalus, the main factor that may have led to the abandonment of the offspring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3387 KiB  
Article
A Survey of Diseases in Different Species of Wild, Captive, and Illegally Traded Birds in Brazil
by Maira dos Santos Carneiro Lacerda, Willian Henrique de Magalhães Santos, Marcelo Coelho Lopes, Clarissa Silva Fonseca, Marcelo Pires Nogueira de Carvalho, Nelson Rodrigo da Silva Martins and Roselene Ecco
Animals 2024, 14(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14010025 - 20 Dec 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2792
Abstract
Native and exotic avian species can act as reservoirs of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, with conservation and public health implications. A retrospective study on the diagnosis and frequency of diseases in wild and exotic avian species was conducted. The occurrence of particular [...] Read more.
Native and exotic avian species can act as reservoirs of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, with conservation and public health implications. A retrospective study on the diagnosis and frequency of diseases in wild and exotic avian species was conducted. The occurrence of particular diseases was associated with the type of captivity or the bird’s origin. The investigation included macroscopic and microscopic descriptions and the molecular determination of the causative agent(s). Additional immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, PCR, and genetic sequencing were conducted. A total of 243 cases were compiled for the study, mainly consisting of native wild species (39.1%) obtained from illegal trade. Primary infectious diseases, mainly parasitic (18.1%) and viral (17.7%), were the most common, although coinfections were substantial (18.1%) in birds rescued from trafficking. Fractures and neoplasms accounted for 3.7% and 3.3% of the cases, respectively. Parasitic and viral diseases were the most common in both exotic and wild birds. Chlamydia psittaci, a lethal and zoonotic bacterium, was an important cause of death, especially in native Psittaciformes. The recent detection of Psittacid alphaherpesvirus 5 (PsAHV 5) in exotic psittacines and the diagnosis of coinfections in trafficked birds highlight the importance of monitoring avian health to control potential pathogens that may endanger conservation efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research

8 pages, 2365 KiB  
Case Report
Pathologic Findings of Cranial Abscesses Involving the Pituitary Gland in Free-Ranging White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in Pennsylvania
by Jack Timmons, Matthew Shaub, Luke Scherer, Ian Gereg, Lauren Maxwell, Lane Potts, Madison Stevens, Madeline Vile, Erica A. Miller and Kevin D. Niedringhaus
Animals 2025, 15(3), 409; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15030409 - 2 Feb 2025
Viewed by 753
Abstract
Intracranial abscesses are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in neurologic free-ranging white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). These infections are typically attributed to Trueperella pyogenes and occur most often in adult males with concurrent antler and skull infections. A subset of [...] Read more.
Intracranial abscesses are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in neurologic free-ranging white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). These infections are typically attributed to Trueperella pyogenes and occur most often in adult males with concurrent antler and skull infections. A subset of intracranial abscesses in white-tailed deer are localized to the pituitary gland, with previously described reports in five white-tailed deer. In this case series, five additional free-ranging white-tailed deer in Pennsylvania were diagnosed with pituitary abscesses at necropsy. Two cases were female deer, and four cases were yearling or juvenile deer. Two cases presented with conjunctivitis and keratitis due to extension of pituitary abscesses into the retrobulbar and peri-orbital spaces. One case had a concurrent liver abscess. This case series demonstrates a unique clinical presentation of keratitis and conjunctivitis and emphasizes the potentially unique pathogenesis for pituitary abscesses compared to other intracranial abscesses described in white-tailed deer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 4035 KiB  
Case Report
Debilitating Musculoskeletal Disease in Two Free-Ranging Juvenile American Black Bears (Ursus americanus)
by Isabella C. Fahrenholz, Michelle M. Dennis, Federica Morandi, Keren E. Dittmer and Julie D. Sheldon
Animals 2024, 14(14), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14142088 - 17 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1857
Abstract
Severe musculoskeletal disease characterized by marked joint laxity was the cause of euthanasia in two wild juvenile American black bears (Ursus americanus) admitted to a rehabilitation facility in eastern Tennessee in 2023. Previously, almost all reported musculoskeletal diseases in this population [...] Read more.
Severe musculoskeletal disease characterized by marked joint laxity was the cause of euthanasia in two wild juvenile American black bears (Ursus americanus) admitted to a rehabilitation facility in eastern Tennessee in 2023. Previously, almost all reported musculoskeletal diseases in this population were of traumatic etiology, even in malnourished yearlings. Case 1 was an orphaned 11-month-old male cub exhibiting disproportionate dwarfism, progressive immobility, and joint laxity. Necropsy findings suggested either chondrodysplasia or rickets, and imaging findings supported a skeletal dysplasia. Case 2 was a 14-month-old emaciated male yearling exhibiting joint laxity and immobility. Necropsy findings showed osteoporosis and serous atrophy of fat, and imaging findings were inconsistent with a skeletal dysplasia. Both cases were clinically inconsistent with rickets based on normal calcium, phosphorous, and parathyroid hormone concentrations; however, Case 1 had hypovitaminosis D (9 nmol/L) compared to healthy juvenile black bears. We hypothesize that Case 1 had a genetic chondrodysplasia while the osteoporosis of Case 2 was due to chronic malnutrition. The goal of this case report is to inform wildlife agencies and facilities to monitor for similar, non-trauma-related debilitating musculoskeletal disease in free-ranging bears and evaluate cases that allow us to further understand the disease processes involved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathology of Wildlife in the Americas)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop