Occurrence of Coccidiosis in Backyard Chickens Across Four Locations in Birshi Ward, Bauchi LGA, Nigeria

Abstract

 Coccidiosis, caused by Eimeria species a major constraint to backyard poultry production in developing countries, leading to significant economic losses and poor productivity. Despite its importance, location-specific prevalence data are limited in many regions, hindering effective control strategies. This cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of coccidiosis in backyard chickens across four locations (Birshi, Gwalameji, Tsakani, and Bayara) of Birshi-Miri Ward. A total of 200 fecal samples (50 per location) were collected from randomly chickens and examined for Eimeria oocysts using the standard fecal floatation technique. Data were analyzed using descriptive the Chi-square test of independence. The overall prevalence of coccidiosis was 24.5% (200). Prevalence varied by location: Birshi (20.0%), Gwalameji (26.0%), Tsakani (20.0%), and Bayara (32.0%). In conclusion, coccid moderately prevalent (24.5%) in backyard chickens across the four studied locations, with no significant difference between locations. These findings highlight the need for routine surveillance, improved biosecurity, and targeted control measures to reduce the burden of ciosis in smallholder poultry systems.