Coccidian parasites of British wild birds

Abstract

A study of coccidian parasites in British wild birds was undertaken and faecal samples of 5568 birds, representing 141 bird species from 40 families, were examined. Oocysts were found in 18.68% of the samples. Species of the genera Isospora (16.90% infection), Eimeria (1.24% infection), Caryospora (0.48% infection) and Tyzzeria (in three samples) were identified. The overall prevalence of infection did not appear to be influenced by the sex and age of the host. The results are discussed in the light of the general knowledge of coccidian infections.

Keywords:

• Eimeria
• Caryospora
• Isospora
• Tyzzeria
• wild birds
• Britain

Acknowledgements

Many people supplied us with samples and of these Mr D. Holman, a bird ringer in Corby in Northants, must be given a special mention as he sent 3700 samples. Other notable contributions were made by Mr S. Sporne of Lymington in Hampshire, Mr M. Bailey of Bath, Mrs M. Terry of East Sussex and Mr W. Norman of Grosmont, North Yorkshire. A further 22 individuals and organizations contributed to the study by making collections, and we acknowledge their invaluable assistance.