described. It is then placed in a leak-proof plastic bag that is partially filled with warm
water and a small amount of mi Id household detergent. The bag is shaken vigorously.
The rodent is then removed and the liquid poured through a funnel Iined with fiIter
paper. After all the water has drained through the funnel, the ectoparasites may be
collected from the filter paper and put in labeled vials of alcohol. Figure 3-7. Trapped
rodent being put into correctly labeled paper bag.
b. Collecting Nests. There are many ectoparasites which Iive in the nests of
rodents and birds. In order that the survey be truly representative, it is necessary to
collect nests. These nests are placed in large paper bags with the collection data
written on the side of the bag. The bag is then tightly sealed with strong rubber bands
and transferred to the laboratory. In the lab, the nests are placed in the Berlese funnel
(see figure 3-8). The Iight over the funnel is turned on and the heat from the Iight drives
the ectoparasites from the nest downward into a jar of alcohol. The funnel should be
carefully taped at all seams to prevent escape of the ectoparasites into the laboratory.
The Berlese funnel is not an instant ectoparasite collector. The nests should be left in
the apparatus no less than three days so all the ectoparasites are collected. After the
proper time has elapsed, the Iight is turned off and the specimens removed from the
collecting jar. The specimens are then placed in labeled vials of alcohol. The
processed nest is placed in a plastic bag, sealed tight, and incinerated.
Figure 3-8. Berlese funnel.
MD0170
3-15