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The first record of infestation by a native tick (Acari: Ixodidae) on the Australian emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and a review of tick paralysis in Australian birds

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Abstract

For the first time, infestation of the Australian emu by a native tick is recorded based on an engorged adult female specimen of the southern paralysis tick (Ixodes cornuatus) taken from a captive emu at Healesville sanctuary, Victoria, Australia. Tick paralysis in Australian birds is discussed.

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Acknowledgments

We kindly thank the zoo keeping and veterinary staff at Healesville sanctuary, Zoos Victoria for bringing this novel tick infestation to our attention. This research was not supported by any funding bodies or research grants.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Invertebrate Biosystematics Laboratory, Agribio: the Centre for Agribioscience, Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources, 5 Ring Road, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia

    M. L. Kwak

  2. Healesville Sanctuary, Zoos Victoria, Badger Creek Rd, Healesville, VIC, 3777, Australia

    C. Madden

Authors
  1. M. L. Kwak
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  2. C. Madden
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Correspondence to M. L. Kwak.

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Kwak, M.L., Madden, C. The first record of infestation by a native tick (Acari: Ixodidae) on the Australian emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and a review of tick paralysis in Australian birds. Exp Appl Acarol 73, 103–107 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10493-017-0168-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10493-017-0168-0

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