Survey of Haemoparasites and Haematology of Scavenging Ducks (Anas Platyhyncha) in Owerri Southeastern Nigeria

Abstract

A study was carried out to investigate the haematological parameters and haemoparasites of naturally infected adult scavenging ducks in Owerri, southeastern Nigeria. Blood samples were collected from them for haematology and parasitological examinations. Out of the 200 ducks examined, 120 (40%) were infected with haemoparasites. Of these, 100 (83.3%) were infected with Leucocytozoon, while 20 (16.7%) had Trypanosoma infection. PCV and Hb values of the non – infected ducks were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the infected ones. Their values of the RBC, MCV and MCH were equally higher, but not significant (p > 0.05). WBC, Neutrophils, Eosinophils and Lymphocytes were higher (p < 0.05) in the infected than non – infected ducks. Across sexes, infection in the 40 (33.3%) drakes was accounted for solely by Leucocytozoon, while the 80 (66.7%) infected ducks had 75% and 25% infections by Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma organisms respectively. The male duck (drake) had significantly higher total WBC count (p<0.05) but significantly lower RBC count (p<0.05). However, the values of PCV, Hb, MCH, MCHC and MCV were similar in the two sexes. It was concluded that Leucocytozoon and Trypanosoma species are prevalent among scavenging local ducks reared in Owerri, Imo state and could be responsible for the microcytic normochromic anaemia and leucocytosis among these birds, thus, adversely affecting their productivity.