Find in Library

<i>Trichinella</i> is a foodborne parasite whose wildlife reservoirs are represented by carnivores and omnivores with predatory and scavenger behavior. The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of <i>Trichinella</i> infection in grey wolves (<i>Canis lupus</i>) that recolonized the Western Alps from the end of the past century, and discuss the epidemiological role played by this apex predator in the early phases of its return. During the period 2017–2022, diaphragm samples were obtained from 130 individuals collected in the frame of a wolf mortality survey. <i>Trichinella</i> larvae were found in 15 wolves (11.53%) with a parasite intensity of 11.74 larvae per gram. <i>Trichinella britovi</i> was the only species identified. This is the first prevalence survey of <i>Trichinella</i> in wolves recolonizing the Alps. Results suggest that, in this particular biotope, the wolf has rejoined the <i>Trichinella</i> cycle and has the potential to play an increasingly important role as maintenance host. Arguments in favor and against this perspective are discussed and knowledge gaps highlighted. The calculated <i>Trichinella</i> larval biomass in the estimated wolf population roaming in Northwest Italy will serve as baseline value to explore possible shifts in the relative importance of wolves as <i>Trichinella</i> reservoir within the regional carnivore community. Finally, wolves re-colonizing the Alps already appear as sensitive sentinels to monitor the risk of <i>Trichinella</i> zoonotic transmission by infected wild boar meat.