American beavers (Castor canadensis), trapped between 2017 and 2020 for the purpose of translocation, underwent hematologic, serologic, and fecal examinations. Eight of 73 beavers were seropositive for Leptospira spp. and 1/49 seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii. Two of 40 beavers tested positive for Giardia spp., and 22/44 beavers had strongyle-type ova in the feces; one was positive for coccidia. Hematologic variables were largely within published reference ranges for captive beavers. Within the specific ecosystems sampled, the disease prevalence in beavers appeared low; however, prophylactic deworming is recommended prior to translocation. Further, appropriate personal protective equipment should be used when handling beavers, to prevent zoonotic infection with Giardia spp.
Keywords: American beavers; hematology; parasites; serology.
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