Ecobreves – CHILE: Canine Disease Kills Foxes

By IPS Correspondents and - - Reprint | | Print |

SANTIAGO, Sep 15 2003 (IPS) - Distemper, a disease that affects dogs in particular, is claiming the lives in Chile of culpeo and chilla foxes, both protected species, in the areas of Puerto Velero and Fray Jorge National Park, 350 km north of the capital The Agriculture Ministry's farming and livestock service reported Sep. 8 that the distemper virus has been spread to the foxes by the dogs living in the area or accompanying hunters.

Since January 30 bodies have been found of the culpeo fox (Dusicyon culpaeus) and chilla fox (Pseudalopex griseus), but experts fear the death toll is much higher, as younger foxes and pups may have died inside their dens.

The authorities are studying a plan to revaccinate the dog population in the affected area, says veterinarian Miguel Stutzin, of the Wildlife Department.