Parasitological monitoring of European bison (Bison bonasus) in the wild and in an enclosure from central Lithuania

Abstract

European bison, is listed not only in Lithuanian but also in the international Red Book. Until the 16th century, European bison were widespread throughout Europe, living in rare deciduous and mixed forests, steppes, mountains. Since their restitution it is important to ensure their health. Among health problems are infections with gastrointestinal parasites which can be controlled. Common parasites in European bison include gastrointestinal and lung nematodes, liver (Fasciola hepatica), tapeworms. This study compared the occurrence of Bison bonasus parasite infestation in four areas Central Lithuanian forests in different seasons. The study including captive and free ranging European bison. The faecal samples were collected in the forests of Central Lithuania in 2021–2022, as well as from wisents living in the enclosure in Northern Lithuania. Parasites were detected in different samples using Macmaster and Baermann methods. The Strongyle type, Nematodirus sp., Strongyloides spp., Trichuris sp., Moniezia spp., Eimeria spp. and Fasciola hepatica eggs have been identified. The the level of parasitic infection in free ranging European bison did not cause clinical symptoms. However there were differences between captive and free ranging wisents. Fasciola hepatica parasites were found in the captive wisent.