A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY, FACULTY OF CHEMICAL AND LIFE SCIENCE, USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVEERSITY SOKOTO, NIGERIA IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCS (Hons.) DEGREE IN BIOLOGY

Abstract

A survey of gastrointestinal parasites of chickens was carried out in chicken between August to October, 2025. A total of sixty (60) chicken of different breeds were examined for gastrointestinal infection. Faecal samples obtained from these chicken we’re prepared for microscopy using floatation and sedimentation techniques. The results showed that 42(70.0%) of the 60 chickens examined were infected with various gastrointestinal parasite. It was further observed that the highest prevalence of gastrointestinal infection (30.0%) was recorded among the chicken that were kept in intensive management system. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was 60%, indicating a significant burden of parasitic infection among the sampled population. The most commonly identified parasites were Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Eimeria spp., and Capillaria spp.. When analyzed by sex, female chickens recorded a higher prevalence. These findings suggest that management practices, environmental exposure, and possibly feeding habits may contribute to the differences in infection rates. The high level of infection underscores the need for targeted intervention strategies, including routine deworming, improved hygiene, and poultry health education among sellers and backyard farmers. Controlling gastrointestinal parasitism in chickens is crucial not only for animal health but also for food safety and economic productivity.