Prevalence of ecto and endo parasites of chickens in some villages in Taraba state, North-Eastern Nigeria

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of ecto- and endo parasites of local village chicken between the months of November 2016 to June 2017 in the 16 Local Government Areas of Taraba State, northeastern Nigeria. Seven hundred and five (705) chickens were examined for ecto and endo parasites infestations using microscope and method adopted by Soulsby (1982). Our result showed that 605 (85.8%) of the 705 chickens sampled were infested with single, double or triple ectoparasites (Lice, Fleas and Mites). Our results revealed that single infection with Lice, Fleas and Mites recorded 110 (15.6%), 88 (12.5%) and 84 (11.9%) of sampled birds respectively. Similarly, double infection with lice/mite, lice/fleas and fleas/mites respectively occurred in 101 (14.3%), 90 (13.8%) and 71 (10.1%) of the birds sampled. Sixty one (8.7%) were found to be co-infested with lice, fleas and mites. Four hundred and eighty-four 68 (68.7%) of the 705 sampled chickens were found to be infested with endoparasites. Nematodes occurred in 300 (42.6%) of the sample birds while protozoa and cestodes were respectively found in 93 (13.2%) and 91(12.9%). Sustainable methods of ecto and endo parasites control is necessary, so as to enhance village chicken production and eventually improve the economy of the rural poor and the indigent.