PREVALENCE OF CANINE DISTEMPER VIRUS, CANINE PARVOVIRUS, AND CANINE ADENOVIRUS IN ENDANGERED SAN JOAQUIN KIT FOXES IN CALIFORNIA

Jaime Rudd; Endangered Species Recovery Program; jrudd@csustan.edu; Erica Kelly, Deana Clifford, Brian Cypher, Erica Kelly

Canine distemper virus (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV), and canine adenovirus (CAV) pose potential threats to carnivores, including endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica; SJKF). We studied viral exposure in six SJKF populations across urban and exurban areas in California from 2019-2022. Serum from 45 individuals was tested for viral antibody titers, while 395 oculonasal and soft palate swabs were PCR tested for CDV presence that would indicate viral shedding. While no active CDV shedding was detected, antibody titers were detected in nine (20%) SJKF, indicating exposure. Additionally, CDV infection resulted in the death of five SJKF from urban and exurban populations from 2019 - 2023. CPV antibodies were widespread, found in 42 (93.3%) serum samples. CAV antibodies were less common, with only one fox (2.2%) having detectable antibody titers. Although CAV hasn't been diagnosed as a cause of SJKF mortality, it remains concerning due to potential high mortality in young canids. Overall, antibody prevalence for all three viruses was comparable between urban and exurban environments suggesting similar factors influencing viral exposure. These findings emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring of viral threats to SJKF populations, particularly given their endangered status and the potential impact on their conservation.

Wildlife Pathogens