Survey of Trypanosomiasis in Cattle Herds in Taraba State, North East Nigeria: Parasitological and Clinical Assessment

African animal trypanosomiasis, caused by Trypanosoma species transmitted by the tsetse fly, remains a significant impediment to livestock production and food security across the savanna belt of Nigeria. This study surveys the prevalence of trypanosomiasis in cattle herds in Taraba State, North East Nigeria, combining parasitological examination with clinical assessment of affected animals. A cross-sectional design was employed, targeting 300 cattle from ten randomly selected herds across three local government areas in the Taraba River corridor, a known tsetse-infested zone. Blood samples were collected by jugular venepuncture and examined using the packed cell volume buffy coat technique and Giemsa-stained thin blood films. Clinical parameters including body condition score, mucous membrane pallor, lymph node enlargement, and coat condition were recorded for each animal. Data on herd management practices, grazing patterns, veterinary treatment history, and tsetse control measures were gathered from herdsmen via structured questionnaires. Recent literature from 2021 to 2024 highlights the resurgence of trypanosomiasis in northeastern Nigeria partly attributed to displacement of pastoralists from traditional grazing areas, reducing exposure to organised chemoprophylaxis. Findings will contribute to understanding the relationship between herd mobility and infection risk, informing targeted chemoprophylaxis and vector control strategies. Results will be communicated to the Taraba State Veterinary Services Department for operational planning. Keywords: African animal trypanosomiasis, cattle, tsetse fly, Taraba State, buffy coat technique.