A serologic survey of pronghorns in Alberta and Saskatchewan, 1970-1972.

This research is a survey of diseases in pronghorns located in Alberta and Saskatchewan between 1970 and 1972. They tested for exposure to various pathogens and found antibodies to certain diseases, while others were not detected.

Objective of the Research

• The primary aim of this research was to determine what pathogens free-ranging pronghorns (Antilocapra americana Ord) were exposed to. This was done by collecting serum samples from several captured animals from southwestern Saskatchewan and southeastern Alberta between 1970 and 1972.

Methodology

• Serum samples were extracted from 33 live-trapped pronghorns in southwestern Saskatchewan in 1970. This was followed by samples from 26 and 51 animals from southeastern Alberta, in 1971 and 1972 respectively. The serums were then tested for the antibodies of selected pathogens.

Findings of the Research

• The results showed that there were antibodies present for numerous diseases. These included parainfluenza 3, bovine virus diarrhea, eastern and western encephalomyelitis, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, and the chlamydial group.
• On the other hand, no serologic reactors were found for the agents of bluetongue, epizootic hemorrhagic disease, brucellosis, or leptospirosis (4 serotypes).

Implications of the Study

• The exposure of pronghorns to these diseases provides valuable information towards understanding the health status and disease risks in these animals. This could help in formulating strategies for their preservation and better management.
• On the other hand, the pathogens for which no reactors were found suggest that the pronghorns from these regions either have not been exposed to these diseases, or they did not develop an immune response. This absence of certain diseases speaks to the unique health status of these pronghorns or the environmental conditions in these areas that may not be conducive to those pathogens.