Coccidiosis in the European badger, Meles meles in Wytham Woods: infection and consequences for growth and survival

Abstract

In total 1502 faecal samples were collected from a population of European badgers (Meles meles) between 1992 and 1995 at Wytham Woods, Oxfordshire, UK. Two coccidia species, Eimeria melis and Isospora melis, were identified. Cubs showed a marked seasonal pattern of infection with E. melis, with infection occurring at significantly higher intensity and prevalence than in adults. There was preliminary evidence to suggest that infantile coccidiosis in badgers may be associated with impaired growth and increased mortality.