Distribution and host-parasite check-list of the haematozoa of birds in Western Europe

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A survey of the literature published between 1890–1978 on the avian haematozoa of Western Europe has shown that 15 000 birds representing 225 species, 132 genera and 44 families were examined. 4356 birds were infected with one or more parasites of the genera Haemoproteus, Leucocytozoon, Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Toxoplasma, Atoxoplasma (Lankesterella), Hepatozoon and Babesia. An annotated host-parasite check-list is presented which shows the regional distribution of the parasites recorded for each species of bird. Tables are given indicating the total numbers of birds for each species examined, those infected with each parasite genus and the overall totals for individual countries. These are discussed in relation to regional differences in numbers of birds examined and prevalence of individual parasite groups. Brief mention is made of the relationship between trans-Saharan migrants and their parasites.