Avian Nematode Infections: A Comparative Study of Capillaria spp. and Ascaridia spp. Infections in Gallus Gallus domesticus (Chickens) and Psittaciformes (Parrots)
Avian Nematode Infections: A Comparative Study of Capillaria spp. and Ascaridia spp. Infections in Gallus Gallus domesticus (Chickens) and Psittaciformes (Parrots)
Shahzadi Sarrah Atique, Noor Ul-Huda and Ishrat Aziz*
ABSTRACT
Avian nematode infections pose a significant threat to both domesticated and exotic bird species, particularly chickens (Gallus Gallus domesticus) and parrots (Psittaciformes). This study investigates the prevalence of Ascaridia spp. and Capillaria spp. infections in backyard chickens and captive parrots in Gujranwala, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 110 parrots from nine species and 70 chickens from ten breeds were examined using direct microscopic examination and fecal flotation methods. The overall infection rate in parrots was 43.6%, with Ascaridia platyceri (30.9%) being the most prevalent, followed by Ascaridia galli (10%) and Capillaria spp. (5.45%). In chickens, the infection rate was higher (62.3%), with Capillaria spp. (53.6%) being more widespread than Ascaridia galli (8.7%). Statistical analysis using the chi-square test (χ² = 30.40, p < 0.001) revealed a significant difference in infection rates between parrots and chickens. These findings highlight the substantial parasite burden in captive birds, emphasizing the need for targeted control measures to reduce infections and improve avian health and welfare.
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