Scientists at Murdoch University in Perth have discovered an infectious flu-like virus that appears to have been affecting native shingleback lizards for more than 20 years.
The researchers examined a number of shinglebacks that had been brought to Perth wildlife care facilities by concerned members of the public. They found the lizards were suffering from of an infectious respiratory condition caused by a nidovirus, similar to one that can affect some python species.
The symptoms of the disease include weight loss, weeping eyes and laboured breathing.
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