Quail experts tell hunters to be on the lookout for new bird parasite

The Rolling Plains Quail Research Ranch (RPQRR) have their antenna up for a newly-described species of Mesocestoides appearing in Texas quail, It was reported last season in a bobwhite from Mitchell County and another from South Texas. This parasite seems to be found in the body cavity and around the heart. Experts are telling hunters to keep their eyes open as they open the body cavity when cleaning quail – these worms resemble the proglottids of a tapeworm and will be apparent if present.
Please document any such findings by (a) at least snapping some photographs or (preferably) submitting the bird to RPQRR for necropsy. Freeze the bird in a zip-loc bag and label appropriately. Contact [email protected] or 325-650-0311 for instructions on transferring the bird.