A TICK SURVEILLANCE STUDY IN RESCUED SNAKES OF SOLAPUR DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA: THE TICKS INFESTING RESCUED SNAKES OF SOLAPUR: A PREVALENCE ANALYSIS

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine the prevalence of ectoparasites, particularly ticks, in rescued snakes from Solapur district, Maharashtra. Thirty-six rescued snakes, consisting of 12 venomous and 24 non-venomous, were examined for tick infestation, with 25.71% of the snakes found to be infested with ticks. Indian rat snakes and Indian spectacled cobras were found to be commonly infested, with 54.54% and 42.82% infestation rates, respectively. Male snakes were more infested than female snakes, and snakes nearing ecdysis or having fine scales did not exhibit any tick infestation. The majority of ticks identified were of the Amblyomma genus, except for one Indian spectacled cobra that was found to be infested with a mixed genus of ticks. The study highlights the potential impact of tick infestation on captive or wild reptile populations, as these parasites can transmit diseases such as rickettsiosis, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. This study aims to provide a baseline for future research investigating the factors that influence tick infestation in snakes and to develop effective management strategies.