Veterinarija ir Zootechnika

This investigation sought to determine the seasonal fluctuations in the occurrence of Theileria spp., Babesia spp., and Anaplasma spp. within herbivorous farm animals, encompassing various species such as cattle, sheep, goats, and lambs, within the Erbil region. A total of 244 animals were assessed throughout four distinct seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn. Seasonal prevalence rates were computed by dividing the number of infected animals by the total number of animals examined within each season. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed to identify and quantify parasitic infections present in the blood samples. In general, 84.2% of the animals exhibited positive results for one or more blood parasites, with Theileria spp. demonstrating the highest prevalence at 41.4%. Seasonal fluctuations in parasite prevalence were documented, Theileria prevalence peaks in Summer at 59.72% and declines to its lowest point in Autumn (21.66%). Babesia spp. and Anaplasma spp. exhibited comparable seasonal trends, characterized by elevated prevalence rates in Spring and Summer. This investigation underscores substantial seasonal and species-specific disparities in the prevalence of Theileria spp., Babesia spp., and Anaplasma spp., thereby implying the necessity for focused parasite control measures within the context of livestock management.