Identificacion de parásitos gastrointestinales en animales silvestres en el centro de rescate de la provincia de El Oro

Abstract

The present study aimed to identify the presence of gastrointestinal parasites in wild animals housed in rescue centers in the province of El Oro, Ecuador. A total of 113 fecal samples from birds (52.2%), mammals (35.4%), and reptiles (12.4%) were analyzed using three coproparasitological techniques: flotation (Faust), sedimentation (Ritchie), and direct examination. A high prevalence of parasitic infections was observed across all species evaluated, with birds exhibiting the highest infection rate (93%), followed by mammals (63%) and reptiles (100%). The most frequently detected parasites in birds were Heterakis spp. (33.9%) and Ascaridia spp. (23.7%). In mammals, Strongyloides spp., Entamoeba spp., and Moniliformis moniliformis were identified, while in reptiles, Oxyuris spp. and Nyctotheroides spp. were detected. The Faust technique proved to be the most effective, identifying 83.1% of positive cases, followed by Ritchie (55.7%) and the direct technique (14.1%). The findings indicate that rescued animals harbor a high parasitic burden, which may compromise their health and well-being. It is recommended to implement comprehensive sanitary management strategies in rescue centers, including routine parasitological monitoring, deworming protocols, and enhanced biosecurity measures. These actions will help prevent parasite transmission and reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases. This study provides critical epidemiological insights for disease surveillance and the development of effective parasite control programs in captive wildlife populations.