Survey of Ectoparasites Infestation of Goats at Northbank Abattoir Makurdi Benue State

ABSTRACT A study was carried et to ree ectoparasites infestation at North Bank abattoir, Makurdi Local Govemment Area of Benue State. A total of two hundred goats were sampled for coparasites. Various body parts of the goat such as the skin, ear, leg, abdomen and neck. The sampling was done by hand picking and the use of brush. Ectoparasites obtained from the different body parts were kept separately in sample bottles containing 10% formalin. The samples collected were packaged separately and taken to the Zoological Laboratory for identification of the ectoparasites. The result revealed that out of 117 male examined, 23 (19.66%) were infested and 29 (34.94%) out of the 83 females were infested. There was a Set eartan eatonshi in copreste intestion Bae on 9: 02- 4621: 09-) p= 0.10). Adult goats were more infested with 30 (26.55%) than young goats with 22 (25.20%). The West African Dwarf breed were more infested with 33 (73.33%) than Red Sokoto 19 (12.26%. There was a significant relationship in ectoparasite infestation based on breeds (2?- 25.601; df =1; p= 0.01). There was no significant occurrence of ectoparasites on goats x= 10.611; df =2; p= 0.004). The occurrence of Lice infestation on goats 40 (76.92%) was significantly higher followed by flea with 9 (17.31%) and ticks with 3 (5.77%). Lice were considered to have a high infestation rate in goats examined at North Bank abattoir, Makurdi. Proper and adequate care should be employed to improve their health by prompt action of veterinary specialists, impose good sanitation and hygiene in livestock houses.