Detection of Capillaria obsignata of Pigeons (Columba livia domestica) from Kano State, Nigeria

Background and Objective: Capillaria species (hairworm), a parasitic nematode is well known to cause severe illness in pigeons thereby limiting their productive performances. A number of studies have been conducted on nematodes of domestic pigeons in some parts of Nigeria. However, information on the capillariasis of pigeons in Kano state is scanty. This study was therefore conducted to investigate the prevalence of Capillaria species among locally domesticated pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Kano State, Nigeria. Methodology: Intestinal contents from 144 pigeons were examined for the period of six months; dry (February-April) and wet (June-August) seasons in 2007. Pigeons were grouped according to squabs (chicks) (0-4 weeks), squeakers (Juveniles) (5-8 weeks) and Youngsters (Adults) (9 weeks onwards). Capillaria nematodes were retrieved, counted and stained and mounted in balsam. Differences in the prevalence of infection between the pigeons examined based on their sexes and seasons were analyzed statistically using the students’ t-test. Results: Prevalence of 11 (7.63%) was revealed for Capillariid nematodes and egg. Infection rate was higher in males 7 (9.72%) than females 4 (5.55%) pigeons. There were no significant sex related differences seen in the prevalence of C. obsignata (p<0.05). Among the pigeons examined only the youngsters were found to be infected. Conclusion: This study demonstrated the prevalence of Capillaria obsignata in domestic pigeons in Kano State. This has an implication on the sustainable pigeon production and adequate supply of human protein requirement will therefore be ensured.