Vol. 10, Issue 12, Part F (2025)

Author(s): Drashti R Patel, CM Bhadesiya, JS Patel, TP Patel, AI Dadawala, LM Sorathiya, JG Patel and Chitra D Chauhan

Abstract: Vector-borne hemoprotozoan infections are common in humans, animals and birds but they have been studied to a very limited extent in avian patients. Out of all birds, pigeons (Columba livia domestica) is the most common domiciliated bird which is seen around human habitats. This bird also holds reputation as common pet bird from a long period of time among bird enthusiasts. Pigeons suffer from a range of disease conditions; however, vector-borne diseases are not studied to a greater extent in Gujarat, India. Out of all vector-borne diseases, infection caused by Haemoproteus spp. has been more commonly reported in pigeon in different parts of the world. Distribution of this agent among hospital population of pigeons and other Columbiformes birds (e.g., doves) has not been explored in its entirety. Hence, the present preliminary investigation was carried out to observe the occurrence of Haemoproteus spp. in pigeons. The study included screening of medicinal and surgical cases of Columbiformes birds (N=59) to determine presence of subclinical and clinical infections. Results indicated that subclinical cases of Haemoproteus spp. were higher as compared to clinical infections and it can be detected in both types of cases, viz., medicinal and surgical cases with routine diagnostic modalities. The present paper elucidates the findings of the study.

DOI: 10.22271/veterinary.2025.v10.i12f.2844