Behavioural patterns of possums and cattle which may facilitate the transmission of tuberculosis : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Veterinary Science at Massey University
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Date
1993
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Massey University
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Abstract
Behavioural patterns of a population of Australian brushtail possums with endemic tuberculosis were studied using radio telemetry, and by direct observational techniques, from November 1990 to April
1992. The study area, on the east coast of the Wairarapa, New Zealand, allowed observations of
interaction between the major wildlife vector of tuberculosis in New Zealand, and cattle run as part
of a commercial farming venture. The rugged 40 ha study area is mainly covered in 2-10 m high
scrub, with patches of native bush and some large trees. Part of the area has been cleared of scrub
and grassed. Poorer quality pasture is also available in small pockets in many other areas of the
paddock.
Possums had distinct ranges that remained constant over the duration of the study period, and ranges
of many possums overlapped. Males had significantly larger ranges during the breeding season, and
had the largest ranges overall. The area covered by a possum in a night’s activities varied
considerably between possums, and often for an individual over consecutive nights. There were no
significant differences between home ranges of tuberculous and non-tuberculous possums, although
there were indications that the size of nightly activity areas of the former decreased as the disease
progressed. Twenty-five juvenile possums were followed over 8-10 months, 2 dispersed from the
area, and 7 died within their natal home range. Most of the juveniles died from starvation and
exposure.
Interactions between possums and cattle were observed in a natural setting, and also by introducing
sedated possums to the same area to simulate terminally-ill tuberculous animals. Possums spent a
variable amount of time feeding on pasture in the 40 sq.m observation area, ranging from a few
minutes, to several hours. Normally possums appeared to avoid cattle whenever possible, and if
necessary climbed trees to get away. The activities of several debilitated possums are described and
their apparent indifference to external influences - in particular time of day - noted. The intense
interest shown by cattle in sedated possums is described, and the possibilities for transmission of
tuberculosis from possums to cattle discussed. It is concluded that transmission of tuberculosis is
unlikely to occur on open pasture under normal circumstances, but that sick tuberculous possums,
and later their carcases, are a source of infection.
Tuberculosis in English badgers is compared, and contrasted, with the situation in New Zealand.
Possible explanations for the absence of the disease in Australian wildlife are discussed. The
differences in habitat and population density are suggested as the main reasons for the variations
between, and within, countries. The importance of controlling tuberculosis in New Zealand,
deficiencies in present control systems and possible areas for future research are outlined.
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Keywords
Possum, Brushtail possum, Trichosurus vulpecula, Bovine tuberculosis