Leucocytozoon toddi in British sparrowhawks Accipiter nisus: observations on the dynamics of infection

摘要: Leucocytozoon infection was studied in a breeding population of sparrowhawks Accipiter nisus the British Midlands. Almost all transmission apparently ‘vertical’ from adults to young, at nest site. Parasites largely disappeared blood between October and April, reappearing ‘spring relapse’ during nesting season. Infected birds remained infected for life; there no evidence reduced longevity once they had dispersed their natal There assortative mating or uninfected males females. It is postulated that concentration site allows by non-specific vector same vicinity. At other times year are more regularly unlikely occur.