The expression for the Birkeland current density in an anisotropic P⊥ , P∥ plasma derived in a companion paper (Birmingham, this issue) is simplified by linearization: for purposes of computing j∥ the magnetic configuration is assumed to be axisymmetric, either a dipole or a dipole stretched by the field arising from an azimuthal current sheet. The anisotropy is that of a bi-Maxwellian and characterized by equatorial values P⊥(s0) and r, the equatorial temperature (pressure) ratio. Parameter j∥ is proportional to the azimuthal derivatives of P⊥(s0) and r, with coefficients that are integral functions along the background B of the pressure and field strength from the equator s0, where there is (by assumption) no Birkeland current, to the point of reference. Values of j∥ at the ionosphere are compared between the two magnetic models for 0.11) than for one favoring P∥ (r<1). The growth away from the equator is particularly steep in the stretched model because of the strong curvature of the field lines, especially at large r0: plasma is trapped in the weak equatorial field, confined on either side by the strong B which arises from the azimuthal current sheet. ¿ American Geophysical Union 1992