Ectoparasite incidence in a population of Zenaida macroura L

Abstract

In the management of hunting resources, is important to know the current state of health and vitality, as well as the factors that influence the population dynamics of the species. The aim of this study was to determine the ectoparasites present in the population of Zenaida macroura L. (paloma rabiche) and their incidence according to age classes, sex and time of year. The field work consisted of capturing specimens of this species by hunting (78 specimens). Each bird captured was immediately tagged in the order of capture and placed in an individual sealed plastic bag, and then the feathers, wings, chest, back, anus, legs, beak and head were carefully checked for external parasites. The parasites were collected with a fine tweezer and placed in a bottle with 70% alcohol for identification. Once the ectoparasites were collected from each specimen, they were dissected to determine their sex, and classified according to age class (adult or pigeon). With the data obtained, the prevalence rate was applied. Different statistical techniques were used such as: Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Student's T-test. The pigeons studied had a moderate percentage of ectoparasites (34 %). Two types of ectoparasite were found in the population, Lynchia americana, which is hosted in the plumage of the species, and an unknown mite that parasitizes the legs of the pigeon.