Mange Mites Infestation of Small Ruminants and the Associated Risk Factors in Wolaita Zone

A cross sectional study was conducted from November 2011 to April 2012 with the objective of estimating the prevalence of mange mites infestation on small ruminants, sheep and goats and identifying the potential risk factors and major species of mites in three agro-ecological zones of Wolaita, Southern Ethiopia. A total of 450 animals were examined, out of these 229 sheep and 221goats. Among the examined small ruminants, 4.1% and 2.2% goats and sheep were found infested with various species of mange mites. The overall prevalence of both sheep and goats together was 3.1%. Two genera and three species of mange mites were identified, namely Demodex caprae and Demodex ovis account for 0.9% and Sarcoptes scabies account for 1.8% prevalence. The genus Sarcoptes was more prevalent in the study area. Significantly higher infestation rate of mange mite was recorded in poor body condition small ruminant than the moderate one. From the identified species Sarcoptes scabies and Demodex caprae were significantly higher (P <0.05) in poor body condition animals. Hence, awareness creation of the sheep and goats breeder by the animal health extension workers will be a key to control and reduce the problem of mange mites.