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Evolutionary theory suggests that genetic differentiation between and within natural populations is the result of neutral (e.g., gene flow) and adaptive (e.g., natural selection) processes (Mayr, 1963;

We explored the relationship between haemosporidian infection (infected vs. uninfected), parasite load, heterophil:lymphocyte ratio, body condition and vocal behaviour of the Rufous-naped Wren Campylorhynchus rufinucha. Our results, albeit based on a small sample size, showed no evidence of an association between vocal behaviour and infection status, heterophil:lymphocyte ratio or body condition. Infections did not vary between localities. Our results showed, however, that infection status was associated with a higher song rate, and that in males and females belonging to the same reproductive pair there was a strong positive correlation in terms of infection status and parasite load.

Microsatellite variability of the wood stork Mycteria americana (Aves, Ciconiidae) in Cuba: implications for its conservation. Mycteria americana (Aves, Ciconiidae) is the only species of stork found in the Caribbean. It is a permanent yet rare resident in Cuba, with only two reproductively active colonies. In this work, we used five microsatellite loci to characterize 37 individuals from these colonies, located in two of the most important wetlands of Cuba, the Zapata Swamp and the Sabana-Camagüey Archipelago. We found low genetic variability, with similar values to those reported for North and South American populations of the species, and little but significant genetic differentiation between colonies. Our results highlight the need to improve the management and conservation planning of the species in Cuba because the combination of low genetic variation, small colonies, anthropogenic influence and climatic factors could threaten its persistence.

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