Occurrence of chewing lice on Spanish raptors

Full article

Published:

Volume 43(2), December 1996. Pages 129-138.

Language:

English

Keywords:

occurrence, Phthiraptera, Spanish raptors.

Abstract:

Between 1985 and 1992, 304 falconiform birds of 21 species were surveyed for ectoparasites, mainly chewing lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera). The genera (and in most cases, the species) of the louse populations were determined, both qualitatively and quantitatively. The mean prevalence obtained reached almost 42%, the number of parasites ranging from 1 to 324 (mean value = 30.1(44.1 lice/host parasitized)). Data on seasonal prevalence, intensity of parasitism, and location on the host are presented. The moult of birds was the only factor studied affecting significantly the prevalence and intensity of parasitism.