Detection of skunk adenovirus 1 (SkAdV‐1) in an African pigmy hedgehog ( Atelerix albiventris )

Skunk adenovirus 1 (SkAdV‐1) was detected in an African pigmy hedgehog ( Atelerix albiventris ) that died following congestive heart failure. Incidental segmental desquamative tracheitis with nuclear inclusions was observed, and SkAdV‐1 was suspected as a possible causative agent of respiratory tract infection. As far as the authors are concerned, adenovirus infection has not yet been reported in hedgehogs and SkAdV‐1 has been not identified in any species other than skunks ( Mephitis mephitis ). SkAdV‐1 should be monitored closely as a potential cause of emerging and cross‐species infections.