Coyotes (Canis latrans) are definitive hosts of Neospora caninum

Authors

Luis F.P. Gondim, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
Milton M. McAllister, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
William C. Pitt, USDA/APHIS/WS, National Wildlife Research CenterFollow
Doris E. Zemlicka, USDA/APHIS/WS, National Wildlife Research Center

Date of this Version

February 2004

Comments

Published in International Journal for Parasitology 34 (2004) 159–161.

Abstract

Four captive-raised coyote pups consumed tissues from Neospora caninum-infected calves. Feces were examined from 4 days before to 28 days after infection. One pup shed N. caninum-like oocysts, which tested positive for N. caninum and negative for Hammondia heydorni using PCR tests. Coyotes are the second discovered definitive host of N. caninum, after dogs. In North America, the expanding coyote ranges and population increase the probability of contact with domestic livestock. To reduce the risk of transmission of N. caninum to intensively farmed cattle, we recommend protection of feedstuffs using canid-proof fences, and careful disposal of dead stock.