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23/04/2018
The authors examined the stomach contents of 249 raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) from Denmark. The raccoon dogs were captured between 2008 and 2016. The most common food items were invertebrates (occurrence frequency 69%), small mammals (68%), birds (41%), fruits (38%), amphibians (36%), and carrion (34%). Invertebrates were frequently consumed in spring and summer, while fruits, grains, and carrion were commonly consumed as food in autumn and winter.

Elmeros M et al. (2018) The diet of feral raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) and native badger (Meles meles) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in Denmark. Mammal Research 63:405-413
10/10/2017
In the present study, the gastrointestinal helminth fauna of the American mink in Galicia (Northwest Spain) was examined between 2008 and 2014 to elucidate its role as a potential reservoir host for parasites occurring in other native mustelids. A total of 50 American minks (35 males and 15 females) of different ages (22 immature and 28 adult animals) were available for the study. Eight parasite species were detected. All identified helminth species are also found in European mustelids.

Martínez-Rondán FJ et al. (2017) The American mink (Neovison vison) is a competent host for native European parasites. Veterinary Parasitology 247:93-99
15/09/2017
The parasite list of the golden jackal compiled by Gherman & Mihalca through a literature review comprises 194 parasite species. The authors attribute this parasite diversity to the large geographical range, territorial mobility, and highly non-selective feeding habits of the golden jackal. They also found that a significant proportion of the detected parasite species are also found in domestic dogs or cats. Zoonotic parasite species were identified in the golden jackal, including Echinococcus spp., hookworms, Toxocara spp., or Trichinella spp. The literature compilation demonstrates the significant role of the golden jackal as a reservoir host for parasite species that can infect livestock/pets and humans.

Gherman CM & Mihalca AD (2017) A synoptic overview of golden jackal parasites reveals high diversity of species. Parasites & Vectors 10:419