Prevalence of helminth and protozoan infections in pet birds of Chattogram, Bangladesh.

Background: Parasitic diseases such as helminths and protozoa are considered one of the major impediments in the rearing of pet birds. The current study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of helminths and protozoal infections in different captive pet birds in Chattogram metropolitan area, Bangladesh.

Methods: A total of 549 pooled faecal and 311 individual blood samples were collected from different species of pet birds during June 2019 to May 2020. The faecal samples were examined following routine microscopic tests to identify the eggs and oocysts of helminths and protozoan parasites, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed to determine the haemoprotozoan parasites.

Results: The prevalence of helminth infestations in pet birds was 8.01% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.88-10.61), where infestation caused by nematodes was the highest (7.47%, CI: 5.41-10). Ascaridia and Capillaria spp. infestations were the commonest helminths recorded in different groups of pet birds. The overall prevalence of intestinal protozoal infections was 11.11% (CI: 8.61-14.04) in pet birds. The most commonly occurring protozoal infections were Eimeria spp. (7.83%, CI: 5.73-10.41) followed by Isospora spp. (2.91%, CI: 1.67-4.69). The overall prevalence of haemoprotozoan parasites was 2.25% (CI: 0.91-4.58) in different groups of pet birds. The highest prevalence was recorded in Plasmodium spp. (1.29%, CI: 0.35-3.26) followed by Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus spp.

Conclusions: The data generated in this study are the first of its type, which would be beneficial to the veterinary practice, aviculturists, pet bird owners and breeders in Bangladesh to respond appropriately for the prevention and control of the disease.