Infectious Diseases of North American Black Bears (Ursus americanus): Parasites (Part 2)

D. Zimmerman; Mark Mitchell

doi:10.53607/wrb.v24.188

Authors

D. Zimmermann DVM Memphis Zoo
M. A. Mitchell DVM, MS, PhD Louisiana State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53607/wrb.v24.188

Keywords:

Infectious disease, parasite, black bear, Ursus americanus, sentinel

Abstract

Black bears (Ursus americanus) serve as an important keystone species within an ecosystem and can serve as sentinels for environmental health. Wildlife rehabilitators, biologists, and veterinarians working with these animals should familiarize themselves with infectious diseases commonly associated with these ursids. The purpose of this paper is to provide a literature review of the common endoparasites and ectoparasites associated with black bears.

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Author Biographies

D. Zimmermann DVM, Memphis Zoo

Dr. Zimmerman graduated from Ross University after a clinical year at Louisiana State University. She completed an internship in zoological medicine at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and is currently the associate veterinarian at Memphis Zoo.

M. A. Mitchell DVM, MS, PhD, Louisiana State University

Dr. Mitchell is a former member of the NWRA board of directors. He is Assistant Professor of Zoological Medicine and Director of the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.

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