Comparative Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Free-Range Chickens: A Cross-Sectional Study of Rural (Khotang) Vs. Urban (Dharan) Settings in Eastern Nepal

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites continue to threaten poultry health and productivity across the developing world, particularly in smallholder and waste-collection-based production systems. Despite the rapid growth of the poultry sector in Nepal, little is known about how parasite burdens differ between rural and urban environments. To help fill this gap, a cross-sectional survey was conducted on 100 free-range chickens, 50 from rural Khotang and 50 from urban Dharan, between 2023 and 2024. Standard faecal flotation and sedimentation techniques were used to detect and identify GI parasites. Infection was widespread in both locations: 78% of rural chickens and 70% of urban chickens tested positive, although this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.33). Helminths predominated in both areas, with Capillaria spp. and Ascaridia galli being the most commonly detected species. Urban chickens, however, exhibited notably higher rates of Ascaridia infections and mixed infestations, suggesting potential biosecurity gaps in peri-urban poultry systems. Protozoan parasites, such as Eimeria spp. and Isospora spp., were detected less frequently, possibly due to environmental factors or limitations in the diagnostic methods used. No significant difference in parasite distribution at the phylum level was observed between the two sites (p = 0.74). Taken together, these findings highlight the need for routine deworming, improved hygiene practices, and targeted farmer education programs. The baseline data generated by this study can contribute to the development of effective poultry health management strategies within the One Health framework.