Diagnostic Success—A Quick Guide to Quality Carcass Submissions for Diagnostic Services

Fact Sheet 2025-3024
By:  and 

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Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center provides diagnostic services to determine causes of wildlife morbidity and mortality events to State, Federal, and Tribal partners. To accomplish this, we rely on the timely collection and evaluation of submitted carcasses and the epidemiologic information relayed from personnel in the field. Our current submission criteria can be found here: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc/science/ diagnostic-case-submission-guidelines. If the majority of carcasses found in the field are unsuitable for submission, then sick animals (birds, mammals, reptiles) that have been euthanized are acceptable specimens. Depending on the agency or affiliated institution, there may be additional requirements for submission. When applicable, always consult the organization’s wildlife health or veterinary staff.

Suggested Citation

Bodenstein, B.L., and Weidenkopf, S.J., 2025, Diagnostic success—A quick guide to quality carcass submissions for diagnostic services: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2025–3024, 2 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20253024.

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Diagnostic success—A quick guide to quality carcass submissions for diagnostic services
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 2025-3024
DOI 10.3133/fs20253024
Publication Date May 19, 2025
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) National Wildlife Health Center
Description 2 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Additional Online Files (Y/N) N
Additional publication details