Diagnosis and treatment of Pantherophis guttata (corn snake) snakes infested with Ophionyssus natricis

Ophionyssus natricis is a small ectoparasite and hematophagus, causing damage in snakes of different countries. The diagnosis is made from the clinical signs and observation of the mite. The objective of this work is to report the diagnosis and treatment of two Pantherophis guttata infested with O. natricis snakes. Samples were collected and evaluated under a stereoscopic and optical microscope. The treatment was performed using a fipronil-based drug. Knowledge about parasites infesting snakes is very important, as well as the correct identification of them so that it is possible to carry out proper management of snakes and treatment of affected animals, in order to avoid their proliferation.