Coccidiosis is probably the most common disease a Nigerian poultry farmer will meet. It's caused by tiny gut parasites, it loves warm, damp conditions, and it can quietly bleed a flock of growth — or kill young birds outright. The good news: it's preventable and treatable if you catch it early.

1. What causes coccidiosis

Coccidiosis is caused by Eimeria parasites that multiply in the bird's gut. Birds pick up the parasite's eggs (oocysts) from wet litter (damp bedding) and contaminated droppings. Once inside, the parasites damage the gut lining — which is why bloody droppings are the classic sign, and why affected birds stop absorbing feed properly.

2. Symptoms

  • Bloody or watery droppings (the classic sign)
  • Ruffled feathers and huddling
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Pale comb (blood loss)
  • Many deaths in young chicks

3. Treatment

Treat with a coccidiostat (a medicine that kills the coccidiosis parasite, such as amprolium-based products), given at the correct dose for the full course — stopping early lets the parasites bounce back. Isolate affected birds and keep the litter dry while treating. Because the right product and dose depend on the situation, confirm with a vet or poultry specialist.

Some Nigerian farmers use bitter leaf as a supportive or preventive remedy. It has a long traditional reputation, but it should not replace a proper coccidiostat during an active outbreak — treat it as an add-on, not the treatment.

4. Prevention — dry is the key

  • Keep litter dry — damp litter is where the parasite thrives.
  • Ventilate well to remove moisture and ammonia (the sharp-smelling gas from damp litter).
  • Avoid overcrowding and clean drinkers so they don't leak.
  • Change or top up litter regularly.
  • Use a coccidiostat in feed or a vaccination programme where your vet advises it.

Wet litter is the biggest risk factor — see our guide to wet litter in poultry houses. Droppings colour is a key clue, so also check green poop in chickens and white diarrhoea in poultry.

Key takeaways

  • Coccidiosis thrives in warm, damp litter.
  • Bloody droppings are the classic warning sign.
  • Treat with a coccidiostat at the full dose and course.
  • Keep litter dry and ventilated to prevent it.