Abstract:
Pheasants, members of the Phasianidae family, are widely distributed globally and serve as an important food source in various countries, including Pakistan. Newcastle Disease (ND), a highly contagious viral infection caused by avian paramyxovirus, poses a significant threat to pheasant populations. The present study investigated an outbreak of ND among pheasants housed at Peshawar Zoo, focusing on two species: the Ring-necked Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) and the Wood Green Pheasant. Data were collected from January to March 2022 through structured questionnaires and daily clinical monitoring during the course of infection and recovery. A total of 34 pheasants were affected-13 Ringnecked and 21 Wood Green. Among the Ring-necked pheasants, five (3 males, 2 females) succumbed to the disease, while eight recovered. In the Wood Green group, three deaths (2 males, 1 female) were recorded, with 18 birds recovering. Mortality was notably higher in males across both species. Common clinical signs included significant reductions in feed intake (40-90%), weight loss (816%), and decreased egg production in laying hens. These findings highlight the impact of ND on pheasant health and productivity, and underscore the importance of timely diagnosis, monitoring, and management strategies in captive avian populations.
Page(s):
209-209
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: 4th International Conference of Sciences “Revamped Scientific Outlook of 21st Century, 2025” , November 12,2025, Volume: 1, Issue: 1, Year: 2025
Keywords:
Pakistan
,
poultry
,
Newcastle Disease
,
Avian Health
,
Pheasant
,
Paramyxovirus