Distribution of life cycle stages of Sarcoptes scabiei var wombati and effects of severe mange on common wombats in Victoria

Abstract

Seven female and three male common wombats (Vombatus ursinus) collected from forested areas of Victoria (Australia) over a 10 mo period, 10 April 1997 to 22 February 1998 had at least 30% of their skin affected by severe hyperkeratotic sarcoptic mange. Mangy wombats were grazing during the day, could be readily approached, were in poor body condition, and lacked subcutaneous fat. The anterolateral surface of the body was most heavily parasitised with Sarcoptes scabiei var wombati followed by the posterolateral surface, the dorsal region between the ears, the ears, ventral abdomen, medial aspect of the legs, axillary and inguinal areas, and the dorsal midline. Larvae were the most prevalent l..