Tuberculosis in free-ranging, semi-free-ranging and captive cervids

Cervids were one of the earliest sources of food for humans. Evidence exists of some degree of human management of cervids in Norway over 50,000 years ago. Cervids are popular wild animals for viewing in National parks and Wildlife Reserves; they have also become popular as an alternative livestock species, and are being farmed and ranched commercially. Confinement of animals and the resultant increase in population density have increased the likelihood of infectious and parasitic diseases. Cervids are susceptible to tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium spp. (M. bovis, M. tuberculosis, M. avium). Tuberculosis has affected the cervid industry, causing concern among wildlife managers and regulatory agencies in countries where attempts are being made to eradicate tuberculosis. The author discusses the epizootiology of tuberculosis in the various existing management situations. Husbandry practices which either favour or inhibit the potential occurrence of tuberculosis are described.