Which external parasite commonly infests goats?

Ticks are a common external parasite that infests goats and are known for their blood-sucking behavior. These ectoparasites can significantly impact the health and productivity of goats by transmitting a variety of diseases, such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis, which can lead to serious health issues. Additionally, tick infestations can cause stress, irritation, and anemia in goats, due to their feeding habits.

Preventative measures, including regular checks for ticks, maintaining cleanliness in living areas, and applying appropriate acaricides, are essential for effective goat management to combat these parasites. While other animals like mice, flies, and rats can affect goats in different ways or be vectors for certain diseases, they do not specifically classify as external parasites in the same manner that ticks do. Therefore, ticks are the most pertinent external parasites associated with goat infestations in this context.