Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in free-ranging Sakini Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus Linnaeus, 1758), in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in free-ranging Sakini Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus Linnaeus, 1758), in Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal, focusing on the types of parasitic infections and the effectiveness of anthelminthic treatment. A total of 171 fecal samples of poultry were collected from a small backyard farm in eight months from September 2024 to April 2025, developed in Kirtipur. These fecal samples analyzed using direct smear, floatation, and sedimentation methods. The results revealed one protozoan and four nematode parasitic infections. The prevalence of parasites showed Eimeria sp. (28.65%), Capillaria sp. (8.77%), Heterakis sp. (5.65%), Strongyle and Asaridia sp. (3.51%). Parasitic prevalence was found the highest in November and December (66.67% each). The gastrointestinal parasites have strong relation (χ2= 1.00 to 0.23; P>0.05), in November to March except in April (χ2= 0.01; P<0.05). There was a significantly association between helminth parasite and anthelminthic treatment of parasites (χ2= 0.02; P<0.05). The drugs were very effective to Ascaridia and Strongyle and relatively less effective in Heterakis and Capillaria species. This research will contribute to Nepal's "Envisioning Nepal 2030" initiative by addressing key Sustainable Development Goals such as poverty reduction, food security, health, and economic growth in the poultry sector. The findings conclude the need for improved integrated parasite management practices, including better litter management, targeted treatments, and further research on drug resistance and protozoan control.