Studies on the Vectors of Leishmaniasis in Kenya: Phlebotomine Sandflies of Sandai Location, Baringo District

Adults of phlebotomine sandflies were collected from natural and man-made habitats in Sandai area of Baringo district using sticky and CDC light traps. Three sandfly species belongings to the Phlebotomus genus and eight species belonging to the Sergentomyia genus were recorded in the area. These flies fall into "perennial" group as they appeared to breed throughout the year. During the dry season there was an increase of sandfly densities in animal burrows and termite mounds, the main sandfly breeding places. Tree holes and human habitations constituted the major sandfly resting places during the wet season. Sandflies of the Phlebotomus genus were more collected in termite mounds and inside houses using CDC light traps, whereas in animal burrows they were more collected by sticky traps than by CDC traps. Sandflies of the Sergentomyia genus were equally collected by sticky traps and CDC light traps. However, in animal burrows and in human habitations, sandflies were more collected by CDC light traps than by sticky traps. On statistical analysis, CDC light traps seemed to be effective inside houses and in animal burrows. In termite mounds both traps yielded uniform results.