Colorado wildlife officials have confirmed the first case of “staggering disease” in North America, found in a mountain lion. This neurological condition has previously only been observed in European cats.
The infected mountain lion, euthanized in Douglas County in 2023, exhibited severe mobility issues, highlighting the potential threat to wildlife populations.
Why This is Important
Mountain lions, also known as cougars, have the largest hind legs proportionate to the body size of any member of the cat family, allowing them to jump up to 40 feet horizontally and 18 feet vertically.
This remarkable agility makes the impact of staggering disease on these predators particularly concerning for ecologists and wildlife conservationists.
A Concerning Development
The discovery of staggering disease in a North American mountain lion raises significant concerns about the potential spread of this deadly virus.
Dr. Karen Fox, a research scientist at Colorado State University and lead author of the study published in “Emerging Infectious Diseases,” emphasized the need for further investigation. “Given the wide host range of the virus in Europe, RusV should be considered a possible cause for neurological diseases in all mammal species in North America,” the study states.(ref)
Staggering disease, formally known as feline meningoencephalomyelitis, was first described in Sweden in the 1970s and Austria in the 1990s. However, it took researchers nearly 50 years to identify the rustrela virus as the causative agent in 2023. The virus is related to the rubella virus that infects humans.
Searching for Answers
Scientists are now working to determine the extent of the rustrela virus in both domestic and wild feline populations in Colorado. The broad range of mammals that can host the virus in Europe, including rodents, marsupials, and even a donkey, suggests that it could potentially be spread between people and animals, though more research is needed.
Experts believe that small rodents may serve as reservoir hosts for the virus, carrying it without experiencing negative effects. Studying these rodent populations in Colorado could provide crucial insights into the transmission and spread of the disease.
Vigilance & Collaboration
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and veterinarians at Colorado State University are collaborating to identify any new cases of staggering disease in the state. The public is urged to report any mountain lions exhibiting staggering, difficulty walking, or abnormal behavior to their local CPW office.
Dr. Fox emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with European colleagues while searching for new cases in Colorado.
CPW is also working to educate the public about the disease and its potential impacts. Through meetings and outreach efforts, they aim to raise awareness and gather feedback from stakeholders, including hunters, conservationists, and concerned citizens.
Protecting Colorado’s Mountain Lions
Colorado is home to an estimated 3,500-4,500 independent aged mountain lions, with nearly 60 percent of the state considered suitable habitat for these adaptable felines.(ref) CPW is currently conducting research on the Western Slope to provide a more accurate population estimate.
As scientists work to unravel the mysteries surrounding staggering disease and its potential impact on North American wildlife, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and proactive in our efforts to protect these majestic creatures. Through collaboration, research, and public awareness, we can work towards ensuring a healthy future for Colorado’s mountain lions and the diverse ecosystems they inhabit.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.