Parásitos gastrointestinales en loros (psittacidae) en el centro de rescate James Brown, Ecuador Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in parrots (psittacidae) at the James Brown rescue center, Ecuador

Abstract

Gastrointestinal infections pose a significant challenge to the welfare, conservation, and sanitary management of psittacines housed in wildlife rescue centers. In response to this need, the present study aimed to determine the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites affecting birds of the family Psittacidae at the James Brown Rescue Center, located in La Concordia, Ecuador. The research was grounded in inductive, descriptive, and synthetic scientific methods to infer epidemiological patterns, characterize parasitic structures, and integrate findings into a coherent interpretation. Additionally, documentary, field, and laboratory research techniques were applied to build the conceptual framework, collect samples, and perform coproparasitological analyses. A total of 50 fecal samples were examined using the flotation technique with saline solution. Of these, 34 (68%) tested positive for at least one parasitic agent. Identified structures included Cystoisospora spp. oocysts (42%), Ascaris spp.–compatible eggs (26%), Hymenolepis spp. eggs (18%), and Ascaris spp.–compatible larvae (4%). Single infections were the most common; however, double co-infections and one triple co-infection were detected, representing 20% of the positive samples. The high parasitic circulation suggests the influence of environmental and management-related factors such as overcrowding, humidity, and accumulation of organic matter. The presence of helminths with morphological similarities to zoonotic species underscores the need to incorporate molecular techniques for taxonomic confirmation. Overall, the findings highlight the urgency of strengthening biosecurity programs, improving sanitary monitoring, and optimizing animal welfare strategies in wildlife rescue centers.