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Snakebites in poultry
S Lawal1, P A Abdu, G B Jonathan
1Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Snakebites are a significant threat to poultry, with chickens being the most affected. High fatality rates underscore the need for awareness and preventative measures in avian care.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Avian Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Snakebite incidents in domestic poultry are infrequently documented.
- Understanding risk factors and clinical presentations is crucial for veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
- Poultry farming environments, particularly those near natural habitats, may increase exposure risk.
Observation:
- A retrospective study identified eight cases of snakebite in chickens, ducks, and turkeys over a nine-year period at a veterinary teaching hospital.
- Chickens (85.7%) were the most commonly affected species, with hens incubating eggs and aggressive cocks being particularly vulnerable.
- Clinical signs and gross lesions, including visceral congestion, hemorrhage, and edema, were consistent with envenomation.
Findings:
- The overall fatality rate for avian snakebite cases was high, reaching 87.5%.
- The study highlights the severity of snake envenomation in poultry.
- Environmental factors, such as proximity to wooded areas and gullies, were associated with increased snakebite occurrences.
Implications:
- This study emphasizes the significant morbidity and mortality associated with snakebites in poultry.
- Veterinarians should consider snake envenomation in the differential diagnosis of acute avian illness, especially in endemic areas.
- Further research into snakebite prevention and treatment strategies for poultry is warranted to mitigate economic losses in the agricultural sector.