Mixed endoparasitic infections in wild Indian rat snakes (Ptyas mucosa): A case report

Abstract

Rat snakes are one of the most common non-venomous colubrids species found in India. They play a vital ecological role by regulating rodent population and thereby preventing losses to farmers and maintaining food security. However, like any other reptiles, they are susceptible to a variety of endoparasitic infection that can impact their health and survival. Between 2022 and 2025, at the request of Maharashtra Forest Department, four rats’ snakes were submitted to the Wildlife Research and Training Centre, Gorewada, Nagpur for post mortem examination. Necropsy was conducted and parasitological examination revealed mixed endoparasitic infection including Porocephalus crotali (lung pentastomid), Strongyloides spp., Capillaria spp., and Choleoeimeria spp. Notably, Porocephalus crotali infection was identified in the lungs marking a rare occurrence in wild Indian snakes. Intestinal protozoan oocysts and nematode eggs were detected using zinc sulphate flotation technique and identified via microscopy. The findings demonstrate the diverse parasitic burden in wild snakes and underlying potential health consequences. The case report provides crucial insights into parasitic diversity, emphasising the need for regular monitoring and ecological health assessment associated with reptile parasites.