Population dynamics of two Phthirapteran Ectoparasites pigeons (Columba liviagmelin)

Population compositions of four phthirapteran ectoparasites infesting pigeons have been determined on 50 birds, at different levels of infestation. An average of 146 3 (n=50, range 18–963) Columbicola columbae, 81.2 (n=42, range 4–297) Hoharstiella lata have been encountered on the pigeons of Jaunpur. Adult hymph ratio remained equal in Columbicola columbae. Nymphs out numbers the adults in case of H. lata. The ratio of three nymphal instars has also been noted nearly in equal pattern