A Quantitative Analysis of Helminth Infestation in some Passerine Birds found dead on the Island of Skomer

Abstract

1. Three hundred and eighty three birds belonging to fifteen species found dead from starvation as a result of a severe cold spell on the island of Skomer, between 2nd and 5th January 19G2, were examined for enteric helminths. The age, sex and weight of each bird was determined whenever possible and on dissection, the species, location and number of helminths was recorded.2. Seventeen species of helminths were found, providing sixteen new host records and five new British records.3. In general, changes in the mean number of helminth species and specimens per bird and per infested bird is directly correlated with changes in the percentage incidence of infestation.