DISEASES AND PARASITES OF THE OSTRICH 229 
rounding this an intensely stained peripheral zone, and (3), sur- 
rounding all, a zone in which the air cells show inflammatory 
changes but are still pervious. The center of the nodule has under- 
gone coagulation necrosis and contains filaments and free spores. 
The next zone contains leucocytes, endothelioid or epithelioid cells 
together with many filaments. 
The fungus undoubtedly is an aspergillus, and quite likely fumi- 
gatus, although no cultures were made. 
The source of infection was regarded as moldy food. 
Archibald has reported upon aspergillosis in the Sudan ostrich, in 
which quite different lesions were observed. On opening up the res- 
piratory passage a peculiar lesion of the bronchioles is observed. The 
upper portion of a bronchus is lined by dark granular masses which 
project into its lumen. The masses are friable, but are closely ad- 
herent to the wall. The portion of a bronchiole next to the lung 
shows several “‘ plaques ” raised from the surface. These are grayish 
in color with a nodular center and vary in size from a millet seed to a 
pea. Most of them are discrete, but a few have coalesced. Their 
surface is thrown into ridges and depressions. Microscopic examina- 
tion reveals the nature of the infection. 
Aspergillosis in other birds is discussed in Chapter X. 
ASPERGILLOSIS IN OSTRICH CHICKS 
Synonyms. Yellow liver, chick fever. 
Characterization. Aspergillosis in the ostrich chick is a highly 
fatal affection caused by aspergillus fungi, of which Aspergillus 
fumigatus is the most common. 
History. The disease was mentioned by Douglas in 1881 who ob- 
served that it was so destructive that on some farms in Cape Prov- 
ince every chick died. 
We are indebted to Walker for making a useful experimental study 
of the various aspects of the affection, which has elucidated the 
problems of etiology and prophylaxis. 
Symptoms. In young chicks a few days old the first symptom is 
a disinclination to feed. The bird may go through the motions of 
picking, without swallowing food. The chick appears dull, weak, 
the eyes are half closed, it moves about slowly or stands, and occa- 
sionally utters a plaintive note. The neck is commonly flexed and 
the head is lowered and kept close to the body. The abdomen feels 
less tense and full than that of a healthy chick. The respiration is 
