Abstract |
Differential white cell counts were recorded for adult mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) of both sexes during several stages of reproduction: pre-egg laying, egg-laying, incubating, molting, and postreproductive. Similar counts were made for young birds from 5 to 60 days of age. There were no significant differences amongst the cell ratios due to sex or reproductive state of the adult birds. Nonlaying and laying birds had similar numbers of thrombocytes which were significantly greater than thrombocyte numbers of incubating, molting, or postreproductive birds. Young birds had a decrease in the percent lymphocytes from 50 to 60+ days of age and a concomitant, compensating increase in percent heterophils. Thrombocyte numbers increased from 5 days old to a peak at 18 days of age, after which they did not vary significantly. (Copyright (c) Wildlife Disease Association 1990.) |