Hematological and parasitological health conditions of the Pale-breasted Thrush (Turdus leucomelas) (Passeriformes: Turdidae) in southeastern Brazil

From an ecological point of view, parasites are considered important selective forces that influence all aspects of a host's life. The purpose of this study was to assess the health state of Turdus leucomelas Vieillot, 1818 (Turdidae: Passeriformes) inhabiting a Brazilian Cerrado in the breeding and molting seasons through a hematological parameter analysis and an evaluation of infection by blood parasites. The birds were collected with mist-nets, ringed and blood sampled to assess hematological parameters (hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration and white blood cells) and blood parasites. We det...