A concurrent parasitism by Dermanyssus gallinae and Dispharynx spiralis in a spotted owlet

Abstract

A Spotted Owlet weighing150 gram was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Tirunelveli by the forest department of Tirunelveli District, Tamil Nadu with the history of dullness and lateral recumbency. Physical examination of bird revealed presence of numerous red and black colour ectoparasites all over the body with blanched conjunctival mucous membrane. Ectoparasites, faecal sample and blood samples were collected for detailed examinations followed by intravenous fluid therapy and immunomodulators. Faecal examination revealed presence of larvated eggs and the ectoparasites were identified as Dermanyssus gallinae. Haematological examination revealed hypohaemoglobinemia with eosinophilia. Bird was treated with 0.2% Ivermectin oral solution @200µgm/kg body weight as a single dose, but the bird collapsed. On postmortem examination sex of the bird was identified as female with multiple diffuse haemmorhages and numerous tiny worms on proventriculous and gizzard. According to the key diagnostic features for endoparasites in avians, the parasite was identified as Dispharynx spiralis. This paper reports about the concurrent infestation of Dispharynx spiralis and of Dermanyssus gallinae in a spotted owlet.