Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Sciences

Abstract

The aim of this study is to find the prevalence and diagnosis species of lice infesting goats in different seasons and different areas and farms in Mosul, and to determine the severity of infestation among 450 native goats during a period of one year. The result of the study revealed that 14.2 % of the examined goats harboured lice or their eggs (nits). Among the infested animals it was reported that 17% were considered as light, 38% moderate and 45% heavy degree of infestation respectively. It was found that the sucking lice Linognathus stenopsis was more predominating than the biting one Bovicola caprae (Damalina caprae). It was observed that the highest degree of infestation was in Winter. Mixed infestation was noticed. The clinical signs in infested goats were itching, emaciation, pale mucous membrane, restless and decrease milk production, hair loss or matted and rough haircut.