FIRST REPORT OF ASPERGILLOSIS IN A FREE-RANGING GREAT CORMORANT (PHALACROCORAX CARBO, LINNAEUS, 1758)

Abstract

This report describes the first case of aspergillosis by Aspergillus fumigatus in a free-ranging great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo, Linnaeus, 1758) in Northern Portugal. The disease was observed after death and the agent was confirmed with histology and microbiology examinations. It is possible that the animal was immunosuppressed from a previous disease or due to the accumulation of pollutants in the tissues. This report suggests that aspergillosis in wild birds could be more prevalent than previously thought and highlights the importance of post-mortem examinations in wildlife.