With the increased interest in feeding wildlife, aflatoxicosis is of greater concern than ever before. Corn contaminated during maturation or storage may cause mortality in wildlife even if the corn is placed in a covered, raised feeder. It is difficult to document the extent to which wildlife species are affected because wild animals are free roaming and elusive. Clinical signs of aflatoxicosis vary according to the dose received, the time period of exposure, and species of animal. Toxic effects can be divided into acute, subacute, and chronic categories.
Acute effects reflect severe liver disease.
Animals may be anemic and may exhibit difficulty in breathing and convulsions. Sudden death with no clinical signs may occur. Subacute effects may allow animals to live for a longer period of time. These animals have yellowed eyes, mucous membranes, or yellowed skin along with abnormalities in blood clotting. Bruising, nosebleeds, and hemorrhaging may be observed.