Gallery: Wildlife Parasites and Diseases

Hydatid Tapeworm

The larvae of these tapeworms appear as large, white cysts that can reach the size of golfballs.

Tick

The large variety of species in Canada can pass along an equally large variety of viruses.

Moose Measles

Moose measles are a common wildlife affliction.

Giant Liver Flukes

Giant liver flukes pose no harm to some animals, but can disrupt liver function in others.

Liver Blisters

While they don’t look too appealing, liver blisters cause no real damage to the animal.

Trichinella

This is a common parasite commonly found in carnivores.

Sarcocystis

This is a common sight in the breast meat of a bird.

Deer Wart

Warts

These may look more dramatic than they are harmful.

Deer Ringworm

This ailment tends to be more rare, but the effects are almost always seen in the deer’s face and legs.

Filarial Worm

Filarial Worm

This parasite generally resides in carnivores and ungulates and can cause a number of infectious diseases.

Flea

Most small game are hosts to fleas, which can transmit some infectious diseases.

Brainworm

This is commonly found in eastern populations of white-tailed deer.

Abcesses

Virtually all animals are prone to abscesses.

Rabbit Blisters

These pea-sized blisters can be found on the surface of organs of rabbits and hares.

For more, see The Yuck Factor: Small Game and The Yuck Factor: Big Game.