Three important endoparasites of laboratory woodchucks (Marmota monax) caught in the wild: Capillaria hepatica, Ackertia marmotae, and Taenia crassiceps

Abstract

Wild animals kept in laboratories are potential carriers of viruses, bacteria and parasites. These might be a risk to people who have contact with those animals. We demonstrate this by the example of the American laboratory woodchuck (Marmota monax) which has been kept in our laboratory for 6 years (n=155). Beside Capillaria hepatica, the filaria Ackertia marmotae and the cestode Taenia crassiceps have been found. These three species were recognised outside the routine monitoring for parasites. As C. hepatica and T. crassiceps are human pathogens, the potential for transmission to humans and other woodchucks is estimated. Precautionary measures such as treatment to eradicate and hygiene instructions are discussed.