FATAL HERPESVIRUS-INFECTION IN A CAPE-EAGLE-OWL, BUBO-CAPENSIS AND A SPOTTED-EAGLE-OWL, BUBO-AFRICANUS

Fatal, systemic herpesvirus infection was reported in a Cape Eagle Owl Bubo capensis and a Spotted Eagle Owl Bubo africanus. This is believe d to be the first report of systemic herpesvirus infections in owls in South Africa. Post mortem examinations revealed multifocal necrosis i n the liver and spleen. Histologically, intranuclear inclusion bodies were present, particularly in cells at the periphery of necrotic foci. Typical herpesvirus virions, demonstrable by transmission electron mi croscopy, were present. Viral isolations were unfortunately not undert aken.