Presence of one ecto- and two endoparasite species of the black stork (Ciconia nigra) in Portugal

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThe black stork (Ciconia nigraLinnaeus, 1758) is a recognized endangered species in Europe and most of the specimens from the Western Palearctic region breed in the Iberian Peninsula. Available works regarding parasites in black storks are scarce. This work reports the presence one ecto- and two endoparasite species from a black stork in Portugal.Case presentationA black stork was found in southern Portugal after colliding against electric cables. The specimen did not survive its sustained injuries and a post-mortem exam was performed. During the procedure, several ecto- and endoparasite specimens were found. The collected parasites were lice (Neophilopterus tricolor), nematodes (Desportesius sagittatus) and trematodes (Cathaemasia hians).ConclusionsThree different species of parasites are reported from a black stork in Portugal. Ecto- and endoparasites ofC. nigrahave not frequently been described in the literature, and this case report is a contribution to the field. Additional studies will be important to better understand the impact that parasites can have onC. nigrahealth and survival.