Helminth infections of captive animals and management practices at the University of Ilorin Zoo, North-Central, Nigeria

This study investigated the helminth parasites of animals and management practices at the University of Ilorin Zoological garden. Faecal samples were collected and analysed according to standard parasitological techniques while information on management practices was obtained using a structured questionnaire. The overall prevalence of helminths was 20.7%. Three parasites namely, Ascaris spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Enterobius spp. were identified. Of the 92 animal faecal samples examined, common jackal (21.1%), crested porcupine (42.1%), Lioness (15.8%), and mongoose (21.1%) were positive (p<0.05). Only mammals were positive for intestinal helminth while Aves were not infected (p>0.05). Animals fed three times a week had higher helminth infection (57.9%) when compared with animals fed daily (42.1%). Cages cleaned daily had more helminth parasite contamination (78.9%) compared to those cleaned weekly (21.1%, p<0.05). Also, animals dewormed on monthly basis harboured fewer intestinal helminths (5.3%), compared to those dewormed every three months (78.9%, p>0.05). Surprisingly, animals in enclosures with cemented floors had the highest helminth infection (78.9%) compared to those living in enclosures with uncemented floor (p<0.05). The overall prevalence of helminths is low in this study; therefore, zoo workers should take more cognizance of the routes of parasite transmission, since the faecal-oral route is the primary means through which animals acquired infection. There is a need for improved management practices to curb the spread of helminth infection. This will invariably ensure the sustainability of zoological gardens.