Endoparasites of American marten (Martes americana): Review of the literature and parasite survey of reintroduced American marten in Michigan

• The life cycle and zoonotic potential of parasites of American marten are reviewed.
• Using faecal exams, parasite prevalence is compared between two areas in Michigan.
• American martens infected with hookworms were more likely to be anaemic.
• Capillaria sp. were the most prevalent parasite of American martens in Michigan.
• Reintroduction programs can screen for parasites to minimize disease risk.

The American marten (Martes americana) was reintroduced to both the Upper (UP) and northern Lower Peninsula (NLP) of Michigan during the 20th century. This is the first report of endoparasites of American marten from the NLP. Faeces from live-trapped American marten were examined for the presence of parasitic ova, and blood samples were obtained for haematocrit evaluation. The most prevalent parasites were Capillaria and Alaria species. Helminth parasites reported in American marten for the first time include Eucoleus boehmi, hookworm, and Hymenolepis and Strongyloides species. This is the first report of shedding of Sarcocystis species sporocysts in an American marten and identification of 2 coccidian parasites, Cystoisospora and Eimeria species. The pathologic and zoonotic potential of each parasite species is discussed, and previous reports of endoparasites of the American marten in North America are reviewed.

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