Preliminary findings on the gastrointestinal parasites of the brown bear (Ursus arctos) in the Cantabrian mountains, Spain

No study is currently available on the parasitofauna of the population of brown bears (Ursus arctos) inhabiting the Cantabrian Mountains in Spain. The aim of the present study was to obtain novel information on diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in these individuals. During August 2016 and from May to July 2017, 14 fecal samples were collected from the western Cantabrian bear subpopulation, in the Somiedo Natural Park, in the Spanish province of Asturias. The prevalence of parasites detected was 71% and two genera were identified: Dicrocoelium sp. and Trichuris sp. Since the impact that pathogens such as endoparasites can have on the health of bears, together with other stressors, is still poorly understood, research efforts that include disease surveillance are critical to the successful protection of this emblematic species. Our preliminary findings require further investigations, with a wider sampling effort, and bring awareness for the need of carrying further studies on this area as a part of a proactive species management plan.

Automated summary

No previous study has been conducted on the parasitofauna of brown bears in the Cantabrian Mountains in Spain. This study aimed to investigate the diversity and prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in this bear population. The results showed a parasite prevalence of 71% with two identified genera: Dicrocoelium sp. and Trichuris sp. Further research efforts are needed to understand the impact of these parasites on bear health and to develop effective management plans for this emblematic species.