Investigation study of some parasites infected domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica)in Al-Dewaniya city

Abstract

The objectives of present study were to investigate some types of parasites that infects pigeon and study the histopathological changes of the intestine and liver from parasitized pigeons, 95 pigeon were examined ,obtained from local market of Al-Dewniya city ,blood samples were examined for blood parasites ,oral cavity and intestine examined for trichomonas and helminthes respectively ,28/95(29.47%) with blood parasites (Haemoproteus spp),63 pigeon of 95(66.31%)were parasitized with tape worms 19(20%) belongs to Cotugnia spp, and 44 (46.31%)belongs to Raillietina spp. ,37/95(38.94%) with nematodes (Ascaridia spp.) ,10/95(10.52%) with Trichomonas, , and 7/95(7.36%) apparently clean, we recorded alsomany birdsholds more than one parasite, Histopathological study shows there areulceration and sloughing of epithelial lining of intestine mucosa , distraction and degeneration of villi. Also there are desquamation of epithelium , destruction of secretary glands , infiltration of inflammatory cells and atrophy of villi. Liver of pigeon show sever necrosis and infiltration of inflammatory cells also there is vaculation of hepatocytes , congestion , hyperplasia of hepatocytes and some hepatocytes undergone fatty changes. Our results showed that there are a serious problem in the domesticated pigeonswe conclude the problem is need more study and not easy to solved and need more hard work to be minimized