Detection of mange-like skin lesions on snow leopard (Panthera uncia) and prey species in Kyrgyzstan

Abstract

Background Parasitic mites are widespread and affect various animal species globally. In naïve populations, they can cause significant enzootic diseases that threaten health and survival. Sarcoptes scabiei, the mite caus- ing sarcoptic mange, has been reported in Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica) and suspected in snow leopards (Panthera uncia) which exhibited dermatological lesions and poor body condition.

Objective This study aimed to identify disease signs in animal species at the Sarychat-Eertash and Naryn Reserves in Kyrgyzstan, focusing on snow leopards and their prey. We analyzed camera trap images from the OSI-Panthera program to estimate the percentage of camera trap pictures showing animals exhibiting mange-like skin lesions.

Methods The OSI-Panthera program has been conducting non-invasive research involving placement of camera traps in the Sarychat-Eertash and Naryn Nature State Reserves in Kyrgyzstan since 2007 and 2016 respectively, to study and conserve snow leopards. Long-term camera trapping has enabled population monitoring while providing key information on signs of disease affecting the species and its prey.

Results Since 2012, camera trap images have revealed mange-like skin lesions on snow leopards, Altai marmots (Marmota baibacina) and Siberian ibexes. These include alopecia, presumed hyperkeratosis, scabs, deep fissures and dark grey discolouration of the skin. The detection rate of suggestive skin lesions varies considerably from year to year and depending on the study area for each of these species, ranging from 0% to 51.07%. While interpretation of images is limited by the lack of concomitant biological sampling and analysis, these detections raise concerns about the transmission and spread of diseases among animal populations and species within Kyrgyz protected areas.

Conclusion Given the current context of increasing risk of emerging diseases in Central Asia high-mountain ecosystems, our observations emphasize the need for further research to confirm the causative agents and to understand the impact of mange on species conservation.