Survey of lice Fauna in ornamental chickens from São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro states, Brazil

Abstract

Once primarily consumed by humans, chickens have evolved into ornamental poultry industries, with a growing market in Brazil. Ectoparasites, such as chewing lice, can cause mild to severe lesions in chickens. Breeding and disease prevention methods concerning ornamental birds in Brazil are still understudied, with the techniques still based on poultry breeding. This study brings light into lice population that can affect ornamental chickens. The collections were conducted in four properties in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro states, Brazil, where Silkie and Brahma breeds chickens were examined. Lice were collected and identified as Menopon gallinae, Menacanthus stramineus, and Columbicola columbae, characterizing a co-parasitism with increased clinical symptoms, such as low egg production and discomfort. Brazil's poor regulation of ornamental chicken farming leads to breeders not following quarantine recommendations and breeding different species together, increasing ectoparasite infestations. It raises concerns about lice parasites and the need for further research to understand parasites and improve breeding conditions.