Ectoparasitic fauna of poultry in Nsukka, Nigeria

An investigation which lasted for a period of one calendar year was mounted to determine common ectoparasitic fauna of poultry in Nsukka, Nigeria. This survey covered twenty commercial poultry farms located in different areas of Nsukka. Birds were picked and thoroughly examined visually for the presence of ectoparasites after horizontal displacement of the feathers against their anatomical direction of alignment. Identification was mainly by morphological characteristics, host preference and anatomical location. The result of the survey indicates that 15 (75%) out of a total of 20 farms sampled were infested. Furthermore, the orders Mallophaga and Anoplura were commonly recovered. Common ectoparasites identified and their prevalence rates are as follows: Gonoides gigas (15.0%), Menacanthus stramineus (20.0%), Lipeurus caponis (25.0%), Ceratophyllus gallinae (25.0%) and Amblyomma sp. (15.0%). The veterinary importance of these ectoparasites are highlighted and possible control measures against ectoparasitic build up in poultry houses recommended.