-----Original Message-----
From: TWEETERS-owner at u.washington.edu On Behalf Of Chris Thompson
Sent: Tuesday, November 04, 1997 6:49 PM
To: tweeters at u.washington.edu
Subject: ? -Reply

Hi Nancy,

I studied House finches (and still do to a degree) for the last 10 years or
so. As you may know, there is a substantial literature on avian pox
including much specifically on pox in House Finches. It is very common
in many areas, especially in the southwest and southern California.
Although it may be transmitted at feeders, and does occur at a higher
rate in urban versus rural environments, I doubt that keeping your feeder
down will have any significant effect either way, i.e., the major factors
that dictate its rate and transmission are probably unrelated to presence
or absence of feeders. Feel free to contact me further if you want more
info (e.g. reprints of papers etc.).

Chris Thompson
Research Scientist
Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife

Chris,

I would appreciate any information relevant to the transmission and
progression of avian pox in House Finches. Any thoughts about the
transmission of the disease between species? Thanks for your help.

Janet Keen
West Seattle