Notes on the Ultrastructure of Chewing Lice (Columbicola columbae, Linnaeus, 1758 (Ansari 1947) Infesting Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia)

Pigeons (Columba livia) are economically important because they are a key food source of protein for humans. Chewing lice are external parasites and are most commonly found on birds, especially pigeons, due to infection, but not considered a disease. Instead, the phenomenon results from their transmission through contact with other infected birds or negligence in caring for birds and controlling lice using pesticides.? This study aimed to use scanning electron microscopy to determine the exact structure of chewing lice (Columbicola columbae, Linnaeus, 1758 (Ansari 1947)), which infect Columba livia pigeons, a species that is locally bred in the eastern region. Forty samples of 6-month-old male and female pigeons were collected. ?The results showed that the pigeons were infected with a species of chewing lice and also clarified the precise structure of the chewing lice. This study revealed that the number of sensory bristles at the end of the antenna should be used as a classifier to identify species. This is the first study on chewing lice in Saudi Arabia. ?Infection with chewing lice causes wounds and feather breakage and fall off; in addition, it causes a lack of rest in the pigeons, which stunts their growth. ?It is necessary to develop a successful plan to prevent and control chewing lice. Moreover, it is necessary to identify the factors that will help increase breeders? awareness of resistance.