Abstract:
Pigeons have long history of association with humans across the world. They are raised and bred for a variety of purposes, including meat, entertainment, money, and religion. Present study was aimed to establish the incidence of intestinal parasites and their effect on blood profile of domestic pigeons (Columba liviadomestica). 80 fecal and blood samples (40 males and 40 females) were taken and examined according to defined parasitological and hematological methods. The parasite species detected were Ascaridia columbae (58.8%), Capillariasp.(62.3%), Heterakis gallinarum (13.8%), Strongyloides sp.(10%).,Gongylonema sp.(2.5%), and Spirurid sp. (13.8%) along with Eimeria columbae(57.5%) a protozoan, while Raillietina tetragona (45%) a Cestode. The findings showed a high incidence of intestinal parasitic infections, with overall frequencyof 87.5% Capillaria sp. (62.3%), being the most common found parasite,followed by Ascaridia columbae(58.8%), Eimeria columbae (57.5%), and otherhelminthes at less frequencies. Statistical analysis revealed that female pigeonshad a considerably greater frequency of parasitic illnesses, whereas there a wereno significant difference across pigeon breeds. Hematological study revealed that parasite infections had a small overall effect on blood parameters. Thewhite blood cell (WBC) count increased in infected birds, indicating an immunological response and HB level decreases. Other metrics, such as red blood cell count (RBC), and packed cell volume (PCV), remained within normal limits and did not differ significantly between infected and unaffected birds. These findings suggest there is need of further study investigate hormonal and environmental variables that influence susceptibility.
Page(s):
232-232
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:
pigeons
,
gastrointestinal parasites
,
Packed cell volume
,
Ascaridia columbae