Metazoan parasites of three new world vultures (Aves: Cathartiformes) from Chile: a parasitological survey of understudied raptors.

Abstract

Vultures are key species in ecosystems, limiting the spread of infectious diseases while scavenging carcasses. However, they are also the most threatened avian group with several conflicts with livestock farming, hunting, poisoning and intoxication with pesticides, lead and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Still, they represent a understudied group related to parasitological surveys, particularly in the Neotropics. This study aimed to characterize the metazoan parasitic fauna in three species of New World vultures (NWV): Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura), Black vulture (Coragyps atratus) and Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) (Cathartidae). A total of 19 birds hosted in zoos, rehabilitation centers and a museum across Chile were inspected for parasites. Nine parasite species were recorded in the three NWV, including six species of chewing lice, one flea and two platyhelminths. Three species, the helminths Laterotaenia sp. and Posthodiplostomum macrocotyle, and the flea Hectopsylla psittaci, represent new host-parasite associations in the Neotropics, with the two helminths recorded for the first time in Chile. Besides, seven parasitic species were considered as specialists to Cathartids. In addition, two lice (Colpocephalum trichosum and Cuculiphilus zonatus) were specific to the Andean condor, a threatened vulture. The latter is particularly relevant in the ongoing discussion about including parasites, together with their hosts, in the conservation policies. The data and the discussion regarding the parasitic fauna of Neotropical NWV are scarce. Thus, this study represents a baseline to future studies focusing on the ecology, taxonomy, conservation and potential impact of parasites, and other pathogens, on the health of these understudied raptors.