Trypanosoma cruzi infection in American black bears (Ursus americanus): A case report in a cub from California and serologic survey for exposure in wild black bears from several states.

Trypanosoma cruzi is an important cause of disease and death in humans and dogs, and although wildlife infections are common, less is known about disease manifestations. A 12-week-old male American black bear (Ursus americanus) cub with mild lethargy and anorexia presented to a wildlife rehabilitation center in Lake Tahoe, California. The cub continued to become increasingly weak and showed decreasing interest in play and other activities.