Frequency of Infection and Seasonal Variation of <i>Leucocytozoon berestneffi</i> in the Yellow‐billed Magpie, <i>Pica nuttalli</i>*

Abstract

SYNOPSIS. A study, based on tissue and blood smears, has been made of the incidence and intensity of Leucocytozoon in 193 yellow‐billed magpies. Tissue smears had a significantly higher gametocyte frequency, as well as a higher density level than was found in the blood films. Three hundred and seven adult magpies were examined for relationship of season to blood‐parasite incidence. Both incidence and intensity, as indicated by blood smears increased during the spring months; the peak occurred in March; the lowest findings were in August and September. Data from tissue smears indicate a high incidence throughout the year.