EFFECTS OF AGE, SEX, AND BODY CONDITION ON ECTOPARASITIC INSECT INFESTATION IN DOMESTIC GOATS

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the influence of sex, age, and body condition on the prevalence and intensity of ectoparasitic infestations in goats, focusing on lice and fleas, and to identify significant associations between these factors. METHODS: The study was conducted on 4,599 goats examined between May 2018 and November 2019. The animals were classified by sex, age (young < 2 years; adult ≥ 2 years), and body condition (good, fair, or poor). Ectoparasites were collected and identified in the laboratory, and infestation intensity (II) and degree of infestation (DI) were assessed. Statistical analyses were performed using the χ² test and Cramer's V coefficient. RESULTS: Four ectoparasitic species were identified: Linognathus stenopsis Burmeister, 1838, Linognathus africanus Kellog & Paine, 1911, Bovicola caprae Gurlt, 1843, and Pulex irritans Linnaeus, 1758. Female goats showed significantly higher infestation rates than males, with hormonal and physiological factors being potential contributors. Young goats were more frequently and heavily infested than adults, possibly due to their weaker immune systems and delicate skin. Animals in poor body condition had the highest infestation rates across all ectoparasites, with Linognathus lice showing the strongest association with body condition. CONCLUSIONS: The study demonstrated that body condition had the most significant impact on ectoparasitic infestations in goats, followed by age and sex. Maintaining good body condition and implementing effective management practices are crucial to reducing ectoparasitic burdens in goats. Further research is recommended to explore the mechanisms underlying these findings.