British Journal of Poultry Sciences 2 (1): 01-06, 2013 ISSN 1995-901X © IDOSI Publications, 2013 DOI: 10.5829/idosi.bjps.2013.2.1.7465 Corresponding Author: Basaznew Bogale, Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Gondar, P.O. Box, 196, Gondar, Ethiopia. 1 Major Constraints of Village Poultry Production in Demba Gofa District of Southern Region, Ethiopia Aman Mulugeta, Mersha Chanie and Basaznew Bogale Department of Veterinary Paraclinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Gondar, P. O. Box, 196, Gondar, Ethiopia Abstract: A cross sectional study was conducted from September 2011 to March 2012 to identify and estimate the prevalence of ectoparasites of poultry managed under backyard system in Demba Gofa district of Gamo Gofa zone. A total of 384 chickens of different age groups and both sexes were examined. Overall, 322/384 (83.85%) of chickens were infested with one or more species of ectoparasites that mainly grouped into flea 269 (83.5%), lice 109 (33.85%) and fowl tick 16(4.97%). Seven species of ectoparasites were identified. Among them, Echinophaga gallinacean (stick tight flea) 269/384 (83.5%) was the most prevalent ectoparasites species followed by lice species Menopon gallinea 49/109 (44.95%), Menacanthus stramineus 22/109 (20.18%), Lipeurus caponis 17/109 (15.6%), Goniocotes gigas 14/109 (12.84%) and Goniocotes gallinea 7/109 (6.42%) while the least identified was fowl tick / Argas persicus / 16/ (4.97%). Mixed infestation 64/322 (19.87%) and single infestation 258/322 (80.12%) of ectoparasites was also recorded. The difference in prevalence rate of ectoparasites in brooder (44.41%) was higher than the adult (13.66%). The finding in age group showed that there was a statistically significant in prevalence of ectoparasites between brooder and adult chicken (p<0.05).The difference in prevalence rate of ectoparasites in female (64.90%) higher than that of the male (35.09%). There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in infestation rate of ectoparasites between two sexes. Generally, the study indicated that the external parasites are highly prevalent in backyard chickens in the study area which is associated with lack of due attention with respect to hygienic system, treatment and control practices. Therefore, control of ectoparasites based on creation of awareness to the community about the overall effect of ectoparasites on productivity of poultry and others are recommended. Key words: Backyard Demba Gofa Ectoparasites Poultry Prevalence INTRODUCTION value of protein, it is a source of easily disposable income Poultry has influenced man civilization in many ways. a sustainable way into other farming activities. Because Eggs and meat of birds are being consumed since they require little labor and initial investment compare to prehistoric time. Compared to eggs there is no other single other farm activities [2]. It is also reported that rural food of animal origin which is eaten relished by so many poultry play a significant role through their contribution people in the world and none is served in such a variety to the cultural and social life of rural people [3]. ways. Its popularity is justified not only because it’s so In Ethiopia, rural poultry production represents a easy procured and has so many uses in cooking but also significant portion of the rural economy, as a source of because it is almost unsurpassed product in nutritive income for small holder farmers [4]. The total poultry excellence. Poultry meat is also used extensively as a population of Ethiopia is estimated at 39.6 million [5]. delicious food [1]. The majority (99%) of these chickens are maintained Rural poultry production is an integral part of a under traditional system with little or no inputs for balanced farming system and has a unique position in the housing, feeding or health care. Rural chicken in Ethiopia rural house hold economy supplying high quality protein represents a significant part of the national economy in to the family. In addition to their contribution to high general and the rural economy in particular. It contributes for farm households. Rural poultry integrate very well in