What is a common internal parasite that affects sheep?

Haemonchus contortus, also known as the barber pole worm, is a common internal parasite that significantly affects sheep. This nematode primarily infests the abomasum of these animals, leading to conditions such as anemia, weight loss, and overall lowered productivity.

The barber pole worm is particularly notorious for its ability to cause severe health issues, especially in young and stressed sheep. It thrives in warmer, moist environments, which makes it a prevalent threat in many grazing systems. Effective management practices, such as regular deworming, rotational grazing, and breeding for parasite resistance, are crucial to control and mitigate the impact of Haemonchus contortus on sheep populations.

In comparison, while Fasciola hepatica is a liver fluke that affects various livestock species, including sheep, it is less common than the barber pole worm. Toxocara canis is a roundworm primarily affecting dogs, and Ascaris suum is a parasite found in pigs. These parasites are not typically associated with sheep management, which reinforces the significance of Haemonchus contortus as a major internal parasite in sheep production systems.