5e907fee_undation_of_Florida___About_Us__Project_Description
[Project] Prevalence and distribution of Baylisascaris procyonis in Florida [Project Location] Statewide [Grant] $29,000 [Project Description] 
Baylisascaris procyonis is a common parasite of raccoons that, until recently, was not found in Florida. The roundworm does not cause significant disease in the host; however, ingestion of embryonated eggs by birds, some wildlife, and humans (usually children) can result in significant ocular and/or often fatal neurologic disease due to migration of larvae. The parasite can cause significant mortality in wild populations, particularly rodents and lagomorphs, and has been implicated in the extirpation of the Allegheny wood rat (Neotoma magister) from part of its range. The goals of this project are to 1) determine the prevalence and distribution of B. procyonis in Florida at the county level, 2) determine the presence of the parasite within the range of listed wildlife species at risk of infection (e.g. Perdido Key beach mouse, Key Largo wood rat, Sanibel Island marsh rice rat), and 3) identify risk factors for the presence of the parasite (host age, habitat type).
Wildlife Foundation of Florida - About Us
Project Description