Western populations of fisher (Martes pennanti) recently were designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to be a distinct population segment meriting listing under the federal Endangered Species Act. Disease was noted in the designation as a potential issue affecting fishers, and this study provides information on exposures of a fisher population in the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation to pathogens in northwestern California. Of 31 fishers sampled between December 2004 and March 2005, 1 (3%) had been exposed previously to canine distemper virus (CDV) and 13 (42%) had been exposed to canine parvovirus (CPV). Although little is known about disease in fishers, both viruses can be transmitted via fecal contamination and other means, and CDV causes high rates of mortality in other must lids. We recommend disinfecting traps and handling equipment between captures to minimize risks of spreading pathogens to fishers and other carnivores.
|
