Abstract:
Seasonal and environmental differences can influence host-parasite dynamics. In this study we investigated the
influence of changes in season on prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites of Hirola or Hunter’s
Antelope (Beatragus hunteri) and livestock in two different areas in Southern Kenya using noninvasive
coprological procedures. Faecal samples were collected from both Hirola and livestock in Tsavo East National
Park and Ishaqbini Hirola Conservancy and analyzed using a combination of sedimentation and McMaster faecal
floatation techniques. The results showed that both Hirola and livestock were infected by a wide variety of
strongyles, trematodes, cestodes and coccidia. Season was found to be the major factor influencing infection
patterns in both Hirola and livestock with significantly higher prevalence and intensity being recorded during the
wet as compared to the dry season. Apparently, differences in gastrointestinal parasite prevalence and intensity
in Ishaqbini and Tsavo were not statistically significant. This was an indication that the environmental
differences between the two areas influenced the host-parasite dynamics in Hirola and livestock only to a small
extent.
