Ectoparasites of Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia domestica, Linnaeus) in Zaria, Nigeria

A total of 240 (127 males and 113 females) domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica Linnaeus) purchased from Samaru and Sabon-Gari markets in Zaria, were examined by plumage brushing for ectoparasites. One hundred and seventy-seven (73.8%) of the birds were infested by five species of ectoparasites. The ectoparasites comprised lice: 15 (6.3%) Menopon gallinae, 153 (63.8%) Columbicola columbae and 26 (10.8%) Goniodes sp.; flies: 89 (37.1) Pseudolynchia canariensis and 6 (2.5%) of mites (Dermanyssus gallinae). Seventy-four (30.8%) of the domestic birds had single infestation, 95 (39.6%) had double infestation and 7 (2.9%) had triple infestation. The difference between single and mixed infestation was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The females had a higher prevalence 84 (74.3%) than the males 93 (73.2%). There was however no significant difference (p>0.05) in the infestation rates between the sexes. Ectoparasites were removed from the birds through out the year with highest prevalence (95%) in August. Columbicola columbae and Pseudolynchia canariensis were collected through out the year.