Identification of ectoparasites of ornamental birds in the north of Sistan and Baluchestan (southeast Iran)

Several species of ectoparasites infect birds. These parasites that are considered arthropods include: mites, ticks, lice, bugs, fleas, mosquitoes, and flies. This study aimed to identify the ectoparasites species on ornamental birds and determine their prevalence in Zabol and Zahedan in the northern part of Sistan and Baluchestan. A total of 318 birds were examined and inspected for ectoparasites. Parasites were collected by forceps and stored in 70% ethanol. In parallel to the identification of their species, the samples were cleared in 10% KOH following which light microscopy was used to identify the parasites according to their morphological characteristics and the descriptive keys proposed for each species. The overall prevalence of ectoparasites in birds was 21.7%. The ectoparasites were identified as Menopon gallinae, Menacanthus stramineus, Columbicola columbae, Goniodes pavonis, Myrsidea fasciata, an unknown species from philopetrus genus Argas reflexus, Pseudolinchya, and Culicoides. So far few studies have been performed on parasites in birds in Sistan and Baluchestan. Identification of parasites (such as lice in birds) in any region of the country helps us to improve our knowledge about parasitic fauna in this area.