Detection of Haemosporidian Parasites and Lice in a Captive Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus)

This study reports the finding of haemosporidian parasites and lice in an adult female captive-bred Indian peafowl at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park. The bird died with the clinical signs of anorexia and generalized dullness. The blood smear stained with Giemsa was revealed haemosporidian parasites identified as Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. inside the cytoplasm of erythrocytes, based on the morphological characters. The lice were identified as Goniodes pavonis based on key morphological characters. Preventive measures to control insect vectors and periodical screening of captive wild birds for parasites is warranted to ensure health of birds.