Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Markhor Wild Goat (Capra Falconeri) at Chitral National Parks, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Markhor (Capra Falconeri), is notably endangered ungulate native to the northern mountains of Chitral, Pakistan, specifically within the Chitral Goal National Park and Tooshe Shaha Conservancy Area (TSC), is facing a serious threat from gastrointestinal (GI) parasites. These parasites adversely affect the health of Markhor, resulting in pathological and immunological degeneration. The conservation plan for Markhor is further complicated by climate change, introducing challenges, particularly in terms of hunting trophies. This study, conducted from October 2022 to May 2023. The primary goal was to evaluate the prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites in Markhor within the Chitral national parks. A total of n=200 fecal samples were processed and analyzed using flotation, sedimentation techniques, and the McMaster slide method to identify the prevailing parasites in these samples, 64% tested positive for various helminthes eggs and larvae. The prevalence rates for specific helminth species were identified as follows: strongyles 20%, trichostrongyles 14.5%, ostertagia 11%, haemonchus 8.5%, and trichuris 10%. Notably, 44% of positive animals exhibited co-infections. The collected fecal samples detected no eggs or larvae of trematodes (flukes) or cestodes (tapeworms). An overall protozoan infection proportion of 47.5% indicated that nearly half of the fecal samples were positive for protozoan parasites. Eimeria was present in 31.5% of the samples, while Entamoebiosis caused by Entamoeba was found in 15.5%. Gastrointestinal parasites were observed to be widely distributed among Markhor, posing a significant burden of various parasites and increasing the risks of morbidity and mortality. This research highlights the health challenges resulting from parasitic infections in the Markhor (Capra Falconeri) population as substantial contributors to poor health outcomes. It calls for collaborative efforts among stakeholders to address these challenges and ensure the long-term survival of Markhor conservation. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of preserving the natural habitat of Markhor populations in the northern Chitral region to prevent infections and habitat degradation.