Chorioptic mange of the scrotum of rams

Abstract

Extract

Many flocks were examined regularly to assess ram fertility, from 1948 to 1950 inclusive, as a service to members of the Gisborne Veterinary Club. The presence of Chorioptes bovis as a cause of scrotal mange was detected, and its widespread occurrence established. Surveys of ram fertility were again made in the Gisborne-East Coast area in February, March and May 1951 and, in addition to noting the size and condition of the testicles and the absence or presence of scrotal mange, samples were taken to prove the presence of chorioptic mites. The findings of these studies are reported and show evidence of an association between reduced testicular size and chorioptic mange of the scrotum of rams.