Concurrent Occurrence of Laemobothrion maximum (Phthiraptera: Amblycera) and Raillietina sp. in a Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) from Central Iran

Background: As apex predators, raptors are frequently exposed to a variety of endo- and ectoparasites due to their ecological roles and feeding behavior. While most infestations are subclinical, concurrent infestations can indicate environmental contamination or increased host vulnerability. In Iran, reports of co-infestation in Steppe Eagles (Aquila nipalensis) are rare. Case Presentation: On October ۲۴, ۲۰۲۴, a Steppe Eagle was brought to the Kolah Ghazi Wildlife Rehabilitation Center (Isfahan, Iran) due to an inability to stand. Although its bones and primary feathers were intact, the bird was unable to fly properly. During clinical examination, both an ectoparasite and an endoparasite were incidentally discovered. Specimens were preserved in ethanol and analyzed at the Parasitology Laboratory of Shahrekord University. The cestode was cleared in lactophenol and examined microscopically for identification. Results: The ectoparasite was identified as Laemobothrion maximum (Phthiraptera: Laemobothriidae), a chewing louse typically found on raptors. The internal parasite was identified as Raillietina sp.. No direct correlation was found between these parasites and the bird’s neurological symptoms. Conclusion: This report documents a rare case of co-infestation with Laemobothrion maximum and Raillietina sp. in a Steppe Eagle admitted for unrelated clinical issues. The case underscores the value of routine parasitological screening in raptors undergoing rehabilitation, supporting broader surveillance and understanding of avian parasitic diversity in Iran.

کلیدواژه ها:

Steppe eagle ، Aquila nipalensis ، Laemobothrion maximum ، Raillietina sp. ، raptor parasites ، wildlife health