Erythroplastidcytosis in a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri)

Abstract

Avian erythrocytes are typically nucleated. However, a small proportion of anucleated erythrocytes, termed erythroplastids, may be encountered in the peripheral blood of birds. We document the presence of a large proportion (up to 47.6 %) of erythroplastids in the blood of a Major Mitchell’s cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri) and consider the pathophysiology of this finding.