Parasites of Wild Animals Inhabiting the Territory of the Balkhash-Alakol Basin (Central Asia: Kazakhstan)

Abstract

This study presents data on the diversity and epizootiological significance of intestinal parasites in wild mammals inhabiting the arid Balkhash-Alakol Basin in southeastern Kazakhstan. The primary aim was to identify the range of parasites affecting local wildlife and assess potential zoonotic risks under natural ecological conditions. Field samples were collected non-invasively from three host species: Tolai hare (Lepus tolai), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and Bactrian deer (Cervus elaphus bactrianus), during seasonal field expeditions in 2024 and 2025. Standard parasitological techniques were used to detect and identify intestinal helminths and protozoa. The findings revealed high infection levels in Tolai hares and wild boars, each harboring characteristic parasite species. In contrast, no parasites were detected in the Bactrian deer during the 2025 winter sampling, possibly due to targeted feeding interventions. Several identified species Ascaris suum, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Cryptosporidium suis have known zoonotic potential, underscoring the public health relevance of monitoring parasitic infections in wildlife. These results highlight the ecological importance of parasites in arid steppe systems and support the need for continued surveillance at the wildlife–livestock–human interface.