SURVEY OF INTESTINAL PARASITE IN CHICKENS BROUGHT FOR SLAUGHTER AT DAN KURE MARKET SOKOTO.

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence of intestinal parasites in chickens sold at Dan Kure Market, Sokoto State. A total of 100 chickens were examined using flotation and sedimentation techniques. Seventy-two birds were infected, giving an overall prevalence of 72%. Five parasite species were identified: Taenia spp (40%), Eimeria spp (30%), Heterakis gallinarum (25%), Raillietina spp (18%), and Capillaria spp (12%). Age-related prevalence showed that chickens aged 0–4 weeks had a 50% infection rate, while body condition strongly influenced parasitism, with birds in poor condition showing the highest prevalence (83.3%). These findings indicate that intestinal parasites remain a major constraint to chicken health and market quality in Dan Kure Market. Improved hygiene, routine deworming, and better poultry management practices are essential to reduce the burden of parasitic infections.