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Kumar K, Singh D. Toxicity and bioremediation of the lead: a critical review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:1879-1909. [PMID: 36617394 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2023.2165047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Lead is a naturally occurring, bluish-gray metal that is found in small quantities in the earth's crust. The existing literature demonstrates that non-biodegradable character and continuous use results in accumulation of lead concentration in the environment and causes various ill effects such as neurotoxicity, change in psychological and behavioral development of different organisms. Nowadays the most effective technique in the revival of the environment is bioremediation and it is environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Bacterial strains such as Oceanobacillus profundus and Lactobacillus acidophilus ATCC4356 have the ability to reduce lead 97% and 73.9%, respectively. Similarly some species of algae and fungal strains also showed lead removal efficiency as 74% (spirulina), 97.1% (Chlorella kessleri), 95.5% (Penicillium janthinillum) and 86% (Aspergillus flavus). Biodegradation of lead by various microbes would be the most efficient and sustainable approach. This review focuses on toxicity, fate of lead in the environment and its microbial degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushhal Kumar
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Jammu, Rahya-Suchani, Samba, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Devinder Singh
- Department of Zoology, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India
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2
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Hoynes K, Holland AE, Bryan AL, Kupferman CA, Beasley JC. Trace elements and heavy metals in black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) in the southeastern United States. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:9000-9010. [PMID: 38183546 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31722-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Many vulture species worldwide are declining at alarming rates due to a variety of anthropogenic causes, including exposure to pollutants and pharmaceuticals through consumption of contaminated carrion. However, little is known about the extent to which vultures are exposed to various contaminants as well as toxicity thresholds for trace elements and heavy metals. Our objective was to quantify levels of trace elements and heavy metals within black vulture (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) tissues to determine the extent to which populations in the Southeastern United States are exposed to carrion that contains high levels of contaminants. We collected 34 black vulture liver samples and examined differences in trace element and heavy metal concentrations between sexes and age classes (adult and juvenile). Further, we collected 81 blood and 42 feather samples from additional black and turkey vultures and compared differences between species and age classes. We found similar element concentrations between juvenile and adult black vultures with the exception of Cu, where levels were higher in juveniles compared to adults. However, we did observe substantial differences in element concentrations between species for both blood and feather samples, with black vultures generally having higher concentrations of most elements. Our data revealed higher element levels in both species compared to toxicity thresholds found in other bird of prey species, such as blood and liver toxicity threshold suggestions for Pb poisoning in Falconiformes. Further, while average contaminant levels were generally low, extreme outliers were observed for some elements, including Pb, suggesting some individuals were exposed to high levels of potentially toxic elements. More research is needed to better understand contaminant exposure in black and turkey vultures across a broader geographic region, as well as elucidate toxicity thresholds and non-lethal impacts of contaminant exposure in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaleigh Hoynes
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Amanda E Holland
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, 2369 W. Orton Circle, Suite 50, West Valley City, UT, 84119, USA
| | - Albert L Bryan
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
| | - Caitlin A Kupferman
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA.
| | - James C Beasley
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, 180 E. Green St., Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, University of Georgia, P.O. Drawer E, Aiken, SC, 29802, USA
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Lehel J, Grúz A, Bartha A, Menyhárt L, Szabó R, Tibor K, Budai P. Potentially toxic elements in different tissues of great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) at a wetland area. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:120540-120551. [PMID: 37943439 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30791-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of 4 potentially toxic elements (As, Cd, Hg, Pb) were investigated in the feather, liver, kidney, and bone of great cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo). The tissue samples were taken at the Central Tisza - Jászság Nature Conservation Area in Hungary. They were analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The goal of the investigation was to analyse the metal burden of the above-mentioned elements in the various tissues of these wild birds and to provide important information for monitoring the environmental pollution.Amongst the examined potentially toxic elements no statistical gender difference was observed, so the data were not separated based on them during the statistical analysis. The concentration of mercury was the highest in the feather, followed by the liver, kidney, and bone. The lead was detected in the feather with the highest level followed by the kidney, liver, and bone. The cadmium was determined in all investigated tissues with the next descending order: kidney > bone > liver > feather. Highest arsenic concentration was measured in the feather, followed by liver, kidney, and bone with the same concentration.The detected concentrations of the investigated potentially toxic elements in different tissues of great cormorants (feathers, liver, kidney, bone) means that the living area of this birds is not highly contaminated to induce health problems or toxic signs, or even other undesirable effect in the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- József Lehel
- Department of Food Hygiene, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István u. 2, Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
- National Laboratory for Infectious Animal Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance, Veterinary Public Health and Food Chain Safety, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István u. 2, Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
| | - Adrienn Grúz
- Medpace Hungary Kft., Csörsz u. 49-51, Budapest, H-1124, Hungary
| | - András Bartha
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Mobile Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István u. 2, Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
| | - László Menyhárt
- Institute of Mathematics and Basic Science, Georgikon Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary
| | - Rita Szabó
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Plant Protection, Georgikon Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary
| | - Kocsner Tibor
- Digital Food Chain Education, Research, Development and Innovation Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, István u. 2, Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
| | - Péter Budai
- Department of Plant Protection, Institute of Plant Protection, Georgikon Campus, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary.
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Ozaki S, Movalli P, Cincinelli A, Alygizakis N, Badry A, Chaplow JS, Claßen D, Dekker RWRJ, Dodd B, Duke G, Koschorreck J, Pereira MG, Potter E, Slobodnik J, Thacker S, Thomaidis NS, Treu G, Walker L. The importance of in-year seasonal fluctuations for biomonitoring of apex predators: A case study of 14 essential and non-essential elements in the liver of the common buzzard (Buteobuteo) in the United Kingdom. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 323:121308. [PMID: 36804138 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Trace elements are chemical contaminants spread in the environment by anthropogenic activities and threaten wildlife and human health. Many studies have investigated this contamination in apex raptors as sentinel birds. However, there is limited data for long-term biomonitoring of multiple trace elements in raptors. In the present study, we measured the concentrations of 14 essential and non-essential trace elements in the livers of the common buzzard (Buteo buteo) collected in the United Kingdom from 2001 to 2019 and investigated whether concentrations have changed during this period. In addition, we estimated the importance of selected variables for modelling element accumulations in tissues. Except for cadmium, hepatic concentrations of harmful elements in most buzzards were lower than the biological significance level of each element. Hepatic concentrations of certain elements, including lead, cadmium, and arsenic, varied markedly seasonally within years. Their peak was in late winter and trough in late summer, except copper which showed an opposite seasonal pattern. In addition, lead in the liver consistently increased over time, whereas strontium showed a decreasing trend. Hepatic concentrations of cadmium, mercury, and chromium increased with age, whereas selenium and chromium were influenced by sex. Hepatic concentrations of arsenic and chromium also differed between different regions. Overall, our samples showed a low risk of harmful effects of most elements compared to the thresholds reported in the literature. Seasonal fluctuation was an important descriptor of exposure, which might be related to the diet of the buzzard, the ecology of their prey, and human activities such as the use of lead shot for hunting. However, elucidating reasons for these observed trends needs further examination, and biomonitoring studies exploring the effects of variables such as age, sex, and seasonality are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Ozaki
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom.
| | - Paola Movalli
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333, CR, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry "Ugo Schiff", University of Florence, Via Delle Lastruccia 3, Florence, Italy
| | - Nikiforos Alygizakis
- Environmental Institute, Okružná 784/42, 97241, Koš, Slovak Republic; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zographou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexander Badry
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06813, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Jacqueline S Chaplow
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - Daniela Claßen
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06813, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - René W R J Dekker
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333, CR, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Beverley Dodd
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - Guy Duke
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Bldg, Benson Ln, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Koschorreck
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06813, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - M Glória Pereira
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - Elaine Potter
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sarah Thacker
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolaos S Thomaidis
- National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis Zographou, 15771, Athens, Greece
| | - Gabriele Treu
- German Environment Agency (Umweltbundesamt), Wörlitzer Platz 1, 06813, Dessau-Roßlau, Germany
| | - Lee Walker
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
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Vizuete J, Hernández-Moreno D, López-Beceiro A, Fidalgo LE, Soler F, Pérez-López M, Míguez-Santiyán MP. Heavy metals and metalloid levels in the tissues of yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) from Spain: sex, age, and geographical location differences. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:54292-54308. [PMID: 35298802 PMCID: PMC9356949 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19627-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), selenium (Se), and arsenic (As) were measured in liver, kidney, and feathers of adult, juvenile, and chick seagulls (Larus michahellis) collected from the northwest of Spain. Age, sex, and the geographical location of samples were considered variables that can influence metal bioaccumulation, for which concentrations were determined by means of ICP-MS. The mean concentrations (dry weight) found in seagulls were 7.01 ± 0.37 mg Hg/kg, 22.82 ± 2.83 mg Cd/kg, 7.36 ± 1.36 mg Pb/kg, 18.64 ± 0.63 mg Se/kg, and 10.64 ± 0.59 mg As/kg. Regarding the different factors analyzed, Hg was the only metal showing sex-related differences, being significantly higher (p < 0.05) the concentrations found in feathers of males (1.26 ± 0.12 mg/kg) than those in females (0.99 ± 0.11 mg/kg). A highly significant (p < 0.01) increase in levels of some metals was found in liver related to the increase of age: Hg (adults (A) 3.33 ± 0.22 mg/kg vs chicks (C) 1.76 ± 0.28 mg/kg), Cd (A 4.74 ± 0.62 mg/kg vs C 1.79 ± 0.2), Pb (A 0.65 ± 0.12 mg/kg vs juveniles 0.4 ± 0.11 mg/kg), and Se (A 7.56 ± 0.43 mg/kg vs C 5.24 ± 0.53 mg/kg). Positive correlations between Cd-Hg and Se-Hg were found in liver (p < 0.001), kidney (p < 0.001), and feathers (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). The associations found may reflect antagonistic interactions between Se and Cd on Hg toxicity. The results suggest that L. michahellis can reveal local contamination around the foraging and breeding sites and can be a very useful monitoring instrument for assessing heavy metal contamination and sentinel species of environmental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Vizuete
- Toxicology Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UEX), 10003, Caceres, Spain
| | - David Hernández-Moreno
- Department of Environment and Agronomy, National Institute of Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (INIA), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Carretera de la Coruña Km 7, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ana López-Beceiro
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (USC), 27003, Lugo, Spain
| | - Luis Eusebio Fidalgo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (USC), 27003, Lugo, Spain
| | - Francisco Soler
- Toxicology Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UEX), 10003, Caceres, Spain
- IMPROCAR Research Institutes, Caceres, Spain
| | - Marcos Pérez-López
- Toxicology Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UEX), 10003, Caceres, Spain
- INBIO G+C Research Institutes, Caceres, Spain
| | - María Prado Míguez-Santiyán
- Toxicology Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UEX), 10003, Caceres, Spain
- INBIO G+C Research Institutes, Caceres, Spain
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Cooke R, Whiteley P, Jin Y, Death C, Weston MA, Carter N, White JG. Widespread exposure of powerful owls to second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in Australia spans an urban to agricultural and forest landscape. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 819:153024. [PMID: 35026248 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The powerful owl (Ninox strenua) is a threatened apex predator that consumes mainly arboreal marsupial prey. Low density populations reside in urban landscapes where their viability is tenuous. The catalyst for this research was the reported death of eight powerful owls around Melbourne, Australia, in less than one year (2020/2021). Eighteen deceased owls were toxicologically screened. We assessed toxic metals (Mercury Hg, Lead Pb, Cadmium Cd and Arsenic As) and anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) in liver (n = 18 owls) and an extensive range of agricultural chemicals in muscle (n = 14). Almost all agricultural chemicals were below detection limits except for p,p-DDE, which was detected in 71% of birds at relatively low levels. Toxic metals detected in some individuals were generally at low levels. However, ARs were detected in 83.3% of powerful owls. The most common second-generation anticoagulant rodenticide (SGAR) detected was brodifacoum, which was present in every bird in which a rodenticide was detected. Brodifacoum was often present at toxic levels and in some instances at potentially lethal levels. Presence of brodifacoum was detected across the complete urban-forest/agriculture gradient, suggesting widespread exposure. Powerful owls do not scavenge but prey upon arboreal marsupials, and generally not rodents, suggesting that brodifacoum is entering the powerful owl food web via accidental or deliberate poisoning of non-target species (possums). We highlight a critical need to investigate SGARs in food webs globally, and not just in species directly targeted for poisoning or their predators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raylene Cooke
- Deakin University, Geelong, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood 3125, Vic., Australia.
| | - Pam Whiteley
- Wildlife Health Victoria: Surveillance, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee 3030, Vic., Australia
| | - Yun Jin
- Wildlife Health Victoria: Surveillance, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee 3030, Vic., Australia
| | - Clare Death
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee 3030, Vic., Australia
| | - Michael A Weston
- Deakin University, Geelong, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood 3125, Vic., Australia
| | - Nicholas Carter
- Deakin University, Geelong, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood 3125, Vic., Australia
| | - John G White
- Deakin University, Geelong, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and the Built Environment, 221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood 3125, Vic., Australia
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Dal Pizzol GE, Rosano VA, Rezende E, Kilpp JC, Ferretto MM, Mistura E, da Silva AN, Bertol CD, Rodrigues LB, Friedrich MT, Rossato-Grando LG. Pesticide and trace element bioaccumulation in wild owls in Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:37843-37850. [PMID: 33718999 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13210-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Owls are outstanding environmental quality bioindicators due to their position at the top of the food chain and susceptibility to pollutant accumulation. Exposure to chemical contaminants is often a risk for these animals. Moreover, studies addressing the bioaccumulation of trace elements and pesticide residues in tropical nocturnal raptor species are scarce. We analyzed the 26 organs (heart, liver, and kidney) of Tyto furcata (n=3), Megascops spp. (n=5), Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana (n=1), and Asio stygius (n=1) carcasses, collected from June 2018 to May 2019 in the Southern region of Brazil. The original vegetation consisted of areas of Araucaria forests and grassy-woody steppes with gallery forests, which were greatly modified by the introduction of agriculture. In four animals and eight organs, the pesticides abamectin, atrazine, chlorpyrifos-ethyl, and diurom were analyzed through high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass detector. In six animals and eighteen organs, the trace elements cadmium, lead, chromium, and nickel were identified via atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Chlorpyrifos-ethyl was detected in the livers of the genus Megascops. Chromium was found at high concentrations in all matrices analyzed for this trace element. Moreover, P. koeniswaldiana presented lead levels indicative of high exposure. The bioaccumulation of these toxics in owls described here can impact the population levels of these species, impact on its ecological function, and consequently unbalance the ecosystem. Moreover, owls are considered bioindicators; therefore, the occurrence of bioaccumulation indirectly gives us information about the quality of the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Elisa Dal Pizzol
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação (PPGBioexp), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Projeto Corujar - Pesquisa e Educação, Rua Quinze de Novembro 415, 99010-090 Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Vitória Aquino Rosano
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Elinton Rezende
- Museu Zoobotânico Augusto Ruschi, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Jonas Claudiomar Kilpp
- Projeto Corujar - Pesquisa e Educação, Rua Quinze de Novembro 415, 99010-090 Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ambiente e Sustentabilidade (PPGAS), Universidade Estadual do Rio Grande do Sul (UERGS), Rua Santos Dumont 450, 95400-000, São Francisco de Paula, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Menezes Ferretto
- Laboratório de Solos, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Enzo Mistura
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAMV), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Arthur Nery da Silva
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAMV), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Charise Dallazem Bertol
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Envelhecimento Humano (PPGEH), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos (PPGCTA), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Laura Beatriz Rodrigues
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação (PPGBioexp), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária (FAMV), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos (PPGCTA), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Maria Tereza Friedrich
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia de Alimentos (PPGCTA), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Luciana Grazziotin Rossato-Grando
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação (PPGBioexp), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.
- Projeto Corujar - Pesquisa e Educação, Rua Quinze de Novembro 415, 99010-090 Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), Av Brasil Leste 285, 99052-900, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.
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8
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Iqbal F, Ayub Q, Wilson R, Song BK, Talei A, Yeong KY, Hermawan AA, Fahim M, Rahman S. Monitoring of heavy metal pollution in urban and rural environments across Pakistan using House crows (Corvus splendens) as bioindicator. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2021; 193:237. [PMID: 33783594 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-08966-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A widely distributed urban bird, the house crow (Corvus splendens), was used to assess bioavailable heavy metals in urban and rural environments across Pakistan. Bioaccumulation of arsenic (As), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu) was investigated in wing feathers of 96 crows collected from eight locations and categorized into four groups pertaining to their geographical and environmental similarities. Results revealed that the concentrations of Pb, Ni, Mn, Cu, and Cr were positively correlated and varied significantly among the four groups. Zn, Fe, Cr, and Cu regarded as industrial outputs, were observed in birds both in industrialized cities and in adjoining rural agricultural areas irrigated through the Indus Basin Irrigation System. Birds in both urban regions accrued Pb more than the metal toxicity thresholds for birds. The house crow was ranked in the middle on the metal accumulation levels in feathers between highly accumulating raptor and piscivore and less contaminated insectivore and granivore species in the studied areas,. This study suggests that the house crow is an efficient bioindicator and supports the feasibility of using feathers to discriminate the local pollution differences among terrestrial environments having different levels and kinds of anthropogenic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farheena Iqbal
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.
- Centre for Applied Molecular Biology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Qasim Ayub
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
- Monash University Malaysia Genomics Facility, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Robyn Wilson
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Beng Kah Song
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Amin Talei
- School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Keng Yoon Yeong
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Andreas Aditya Hermawan
- School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Fahim
- Centre for Omics Sciences, Islamia College University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Sadequr Rahman
- School of Science, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
- Tropical Medicine and Biology Multidisciplinary Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
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9
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Pay JM, Katzner TE, Hawkins CE, Koch AJ, Wiersma JM, Brown WE, Mooney NJ, Cameron EZ. High Frequency of Lead Exposure in the Population of an Endangered Australian Top Predator, the Tasmanian Wedge-Tailed Eagle (Aquila audax fleayi). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2021; 40:219-230. [PMID: 33090553 PMCID: PMC7839751 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning, mainly through incidental ingestion of lead ammunition in carcasses, is a threat to scavenging and predatory bird species worldwide. In Australia, shooting for animal control is widespread, and a range of native scavenging species are susceptible to lead exposure. However, the prevalence of lead exposure in Australia's scavenging and predatory birds is largely unknown. We evaluated the degree to which the Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagle (Aquila audax fleayi), an endangered Australian raptor and facultative scavenger, showed evidence of lead exposure. We detected lead in 100% of femur and liver tissues of 109 eagle carcasses opportunistically collected throughout Tasmania between 1996 and 2018. Concentrations were elevated in 10% of 106 liver (>6 mg/kg dry wt) and 4% of 108 femur (>10 mg/kg dry wt) samples. We also detected lead in 96% of blood samples taken from 24 live nestlings, with 8% at elevated concentrations (>10 μg/dL). Of the liver samples with elevated lead, 73% had lead207/206 isotope ratios within the published range of lead-based bullets available in Tasmania. These first comprehensive data on lead exposure of an Australian raptor are comparable to those for raptor studies elsewhere that identify lead-based ammunition exposure as a conservation threat. Our findings highlight the importance of further research and efforts to address lead contamination throughout the Tasmanian ecosystem and in other Australian regions. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:219-230. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC. This article has been contributed to by US Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M. Pay
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Todd E. Katzner
- Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, US Geological SurveyBoiseIdahoUSA
| | - Clare E. Hawkins
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Amelia J. Koch
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
- Forest Practices AuthorityHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | | | - William E. Brown
- Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and EnvironmentHobartTasmaniaAustralia
| | - Nick J. Mooney
- Birdlife Australia Raptor Group, Birdlife AustraliaCarltonVictoriaAustralia
| | - Elissa Z. Cameron
- School of Natural SciencesUniversity of TasmaniaHobartTasmaniaAustralia
- School of Biological SciencesUniversity of CanterburyChristchurchCanterburyNew Zealand
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10
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Monclús L, Shore RF, Krone O. Lead contamination in raptors in Europe: A systematic review and meta-analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 748:141437. [PMID: 32818895 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead contamination is a widely recognised conservation problem for raptors worldwide. There are a number of studies in individual raptor species but those data have not been systematically evaluated to understand raptor-wide lead exposure and effects at a pan-European scale. To critically assess the extent of this problem, we performed a systematic review compiling all published data on lead in raptors (1983-2019) and, through a meta-analysis, determined if there was evidence for differences in exposure across feeding traits, geographical regions, between hunting and non-hunting periods, and changes over time. We also reviewed the impact of lead on raptors and the likely main source of exposure. We examined 114 studies that were unevenly distributed in terms of time of publication and the countries in which studies were performed. Peer-reviewed articles reported data for 39 raptor species but very few species were widely monitored across Europe. Obligate (vultures) and facultative scavengers (golden eagle, common buzzard and white-tailed sea eagle) accumulated the highest lead concentrations in tissues and generally were the species most at risk of lead poisoning. We found no evidence of a spatial or decadal trend in lead residues, but we demonstrated that high lead blood levels relate to hunting season. Exposure at levels associated with both subclinical and lethal effects is common and lead from rifle bullets and shot is often the likely source of exposure. Overall, our review illustrates the high incidence and ubiquity of lead contamination in raptors in Europe. However, we did not find studies that related exposure to quantitative impacts on European raptor populations nor detailed studies on the impact of mitigation measures. Such information is urgently needed and requires a more harmonised approach to quantifying lead contamination and effects in raptors across Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Monclús
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim 7491, Norway; Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain.
| | - Richard F Shore
- U.K. Centre of Ecology and Hydrology, Lancaster Environmental Centre, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Oliver Krone
- Department of Wildlife Diseases, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin 10315, Germany
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11
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Taggart MA, Shore RF, Pain DJ, Peniche G, Martinez-Haro M, Mateo R, Homann J, Raab A, Feldmann J, Lawlor AJ, Potter ED, Walker LA, Braidwood DW, French AS, Parry-Jones J, Swift JA, Green RE. Concentration and origin of lead (Pb) in liver and bone of Eurasian buzzards (Buteo buteo) in the United Kingdom. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 267:115629. [PMID: 33254650 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Ingestion of lead (Pb) derived from ammunition used in the hunting of game animals is recognised to be a significant potential source of Pb exposure of wild birds, including birds of prey. However, there are only limited data for birds of prey in Europe regarding tissue concentrations and origins of Pb. Eurasian buzzards (Buteo buteo) found dead in the United Kingdom during an 11-year period were collected and the concentrations of Pb in the liver and femur were measured. Concentrations in the liver consistent with acute exposure to Pb were found in 2.7% of birds and concentration in the femur consistent with exposure to lethal levels were found in 4.0% of individuals. Pb concentration in the femur showed no evidence of consistent variation among or within years, but was greater for old than for young birds. The Pb concentration in the liver showed no effect of the birds' age, but varied markedly among years and showed a consistent tendency to increase substantially within years throughout the UK hunting season for gamebirds. The resemblance of the stable isotope composition of Pb from buzzard livers to that of Pb from the types of shotgun ammunition most widely-used in the UK increased markedly with increasing Pb concentration in the liver. Stable isotope results were consistent with 57% of the mass of Pb in livers of all of the buzzards sampled being derived from shotgun pellets, with this proportion being 89% for the birds with concentrations indicating acute exposure to Pb. Hence, most of the Pb acquired by Eurasian buzzards which have liver concentrations likely to be associated with lethal and sublethal effects is probably obtained when they prey upon or scavenge gamebirds and mammals shot using Pb shotgun pellets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Taggart
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Richard F Shore
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Deborah J Pain
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Gabriela Peniche
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Mónica Martinez-Haro
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain; Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), CIAG del Chaparrillo, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Rafael Mateo
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (IREC), CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Julia Homann
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK
| | - Andrea Raab
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK
| | - Joerg Feldmann
- TESLA-Chemistry, University of Aberdeen, Meston Walk, Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, Scotland, UK; TESLA Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 1, A-8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Alan J Lawlor
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Elaine D Potter
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Lee A Walker
- Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, UK
| | - David W Braidwood
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK
| | - Andrew S French
- Environmental Research Institute, University of the Highlands and Islands, Castle Street, Thurso, KW14 7JD, UK; Marine Institute, Furnace, Newport, Co. Mayo, F28 PF65, Ireland
| | - Jemima Parry-Jones
- International Centre for Birds of Prey, Boulsdon House, Newent, Gloucestershire, GL18 1JJ, UK
| | - John A Swift
- John Swift Consultancy, Brookside Cottage, Chapel Lane, Higher Wych, Cheshire, SY14 7JS, UK
| | - Rhys E Green
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EJ, UK; RSPB Centre for Conservation Science, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL, UK.
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12
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Ishii C, Ikenaka Y, Nakayama SMM, Kuritani T, Nakagawa M, Saito K, Watanabe Y, Ogasawara K, Onuma M, Haga A, Ishizuka M. Current situation regarding lead exposure in birds in Japan (2015-2018); lead exposure is still occurring. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 82:1118-1123. [PMID: 32554936 PMCID: PMC7468064 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Birds of a number of species have died as a result of lead (Pb) poisoning, including many Steller's sea eagles (Haliaeetus pelagicus) and white-tailed sea eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) in Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. To address this issue, the use of any type of Pb ammunition for hunting of large animals was prohibited in Hokkaido in 2004. However, Pb poisoning is still being reported in this area, and there are few regulations regarding the use of Pb ammunition in other parts of Japan, where it has been reported that eagles and water birds have been exposed to Pb. This study was performed to accurately determine the current level of Pb exposure of birds found dead in the field or dead in the wild bird centers in Japan (June 2015-May 2018) and to identify the sources of Pb. Pb exposure was found to still be occurring in raptors and water birds in various parts of Japan. Twenty-six point five % and 5.9% of the recorded deaths of Steller's sea eagles and white-tailed sea eagles, respectively, were found to have been poisoned by Pb. In addition, Pb isotope ratio analysis showed that both Pb rifle bullets and Pb shot pellets cause Pb exposure in birds, and these endangered eagles are also exposed to Pb in Hokkaido due to the illegal use of Pb ammunition. Changing to Pb-free ammunition, such as copper (Cu) rifle bullets, steel shot pellets, or bismuth shot pellets, will be essential for the conservation of avian species in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Ishii
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan.,Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, 11 Hoffman Street, Potchefstroom, 2531, South Africa
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kuritani
- Graduate School of Science, Hokkaido University, Kita10, Nishi8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Nakagawa
- Graduate School of Science, Hokkaido University, Kita10, Nishi8, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0810, Japan
| | - Keisuke Saito
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, 2-2101 Hokuto, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 084-0922, Japan
| | - Yukiko Watanabe
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, 2-2101 Hokuto, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 084-0922, Japan
| | - Kohei Ogasawara
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, 2-2101 Hokuto, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido 084-0922, Japan
| | - Manabu Onuma
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
| | - Atsushi Haga
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
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13
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Helander B, Sundbom M, Runkel AA, Bignert A. Temporal Changes in Concentrations of Lead and Other Trace Metals in Free-Ranging Eurasian Eagle Owls Bubo bubo in Sweden. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2019; 77:377-389. [PMID: 31312864 PMCID: PMC6731201 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-019-00654-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Patterns of lead and other trace metals were examined in 122 Eurasian eagle owls Bubo bubo found dead in Sweden in the period 1978-2013. Environmental lead (Pb) has decreased over recent decades from reduced anthropogenic emissions but mortality by Pb poisoning is still frequently reported for avian raptors and scavengers exposed to Pb ammunition. One objective here was to determine if Pb concentrations in a nocturnal non-scavenging raptor follow the general decline observed in other biota. Pb concentration in owl liver was significantly correlated with body weight, sex, latitude, longitude and season. Pb showed a significant decreasing trend towards north and west. Starved birds had significantly higher concentrations. Total Pb concentrations in liver averaged 0.179 μg g-1 dry weight (median 0.103) and decreased by 5.6% per year 1978-2013, or 5.3% after adjustment for confounding factors, similar to trends in other species. Among 14 other trace elements only antimony and arsenic showed decreasing trends. Lead isotope ratios 206Pb/207Pb and 208Pb/207Pb increased from 1.138 and 2.408 in 1978-1985 to 1.170 and 2.435 in 2010-2013, respectively, demonstrating that the decreasing Pb concentration in eagle owl is related to the phase-out of leaded gasoline in Europe, where Pb additives had much lower isotope ratios than natural lead in Swedish soils. Only one incidence of suspected Pb poisoning (40.7 μg g-1 in liver) was observed indicating that poisoning from ingestion of metallic lead is rare (< 1%) in eagle owl in Sweden, in contrast to what has been reported for eagles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Helander
- Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, 104 05, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Marcus Sundbom
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Agneta A Runkel
- Department of Environmental Science and Analytical Chemistry (ACES), Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anders Bignert
- Department of Environmental Research and Monitoring, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, 104 05, Stockholm, Sweden
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14
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Grúz A, Mackle O, Bartha A, Szabó R, Déri J, Budai P, Lehel J. Biomonitoring of toxic metals in feathers of predatory birds from eastern regions of Hungary. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:26324-26331. [PMID: 31290042 PMCID: PMC6719320 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-05723-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim of our study was to investigate the concentrations of toxic metals in the feathers of predatory birds in the Hortobágyi Madárpark (Bird Hospital Foundation). Samples were collected from different predatory birds originated from the eastern and north-eastern region of Hungary. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry was used to determine the concentration of toxic metals. The mean values varied between bird species groups, their concentrations were between 0.29 ± 0.24 and 0.40 ± 0.30 mg/kg for arsenic (As), 0.09 ± 0.03 and 0.20 ± 0.18 mg/kg for cadmium (Cd), 1.15 ± 1.40 to 2.30 ± 1.52 mg/kg for lead (Pb) and 0.58 ± 0.31 to 2.19 ± 1.25 mg/kg for mercury (Hg), respectively. The measured values are not over the considered threshold values for these toxic metals and in accordance with similar concentrations of them recorded in similar species within Europe. No significant differences were found in their concentration between genders or age in the species. According to the detected concentrations of these metals, their levels accumulated in the feather of the investigated birds do not indicate the possibility of poisoning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrienn Grúz
- Department of Hygiene, Institute of Plant Protection, Georgikon Faculty, University of Pannonia, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary.
| | - Oliver Mackle
- Department of Food Hygiene, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2., Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
| | - András Bartha
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Herdhealth and Veterinary Ethology, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2., Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
| | - Rita Szabó
- Department of Hygiene, Institute of Plant Protection, Georgikon Faculty, University of Pannonia, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary
| | - János Déri
- Bird Hospital Foundation, Petőfi tér 6., Hortobágy, H-4071, Hungary
| | - Péter Budai
- Department of Hygiene, Institute of Plant Protection, Georgikon Faculty, University of Pannonia, Deák F. u. 16, Keszthely, H-8360, Hungary
| | - József Lehel
- Department of Food Hygiene, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2., Budapest, H-1400, Hungary
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15
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Plaza PI, Uhart M, Caselli A, Wiemeyer G, Lambertucci SA. A review of lead contamination in South American birds: The need for more research and policy changes. Perspect Ecol Conserv 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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16
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Kitowski I, Jakubas D, Wiącek D, Sujak A. Concentrations of lead and other elements in the liver of the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla), a European flagship species, wintering in Eastern Poland. AMBIO 2017; 46:825-841. [PMID: 28620777 PMCID: PMC5639800 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-017-0929-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
As a top predator, the white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) may serve as a good indicator species, providing information about the bioavailability of contaminants and their transfer within the food chain. In this study, we aimed to determine the common sources of origin of 17 metals and other elements in the liver of white-tailed eagles, and to compare the variations in their hepatic concentrations by age (adults vs immatures) and sex (males vs females) in groups of white-tailed eagles wintering in Eastern Poland. The element concentrations followed the pattern of S > K > Na > Fe > Mg > Ca > Zn > Cu > Mn > Se > Pb > Hg > Cd > Cr > Sr > V > Sc. We found significant age-related differences in the hepatic concentrations of some of the elements. Adults showed higher concentrations of Pb, Cd, Ca, Fe, and Zn and lower concentrations of Cu and Se than immatures. These differences may be explained by age-related differences in wintering strategy (adults are sedentary, and immatures are migratory) and hunting skills (adults are more successful when hunting for agile prey). Our study indicates that ingested Pb ammunition poses a serious threat to the health and lives of white-tailed eagles in Poland (32% of the studied individuals had acute lead poisoning). Our study also indicates a serious need for banning the use of lead hunting ammunition in the parts of Europe (including Poland) where it is still allowed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacy Kitowski
- State School of Higher Education in Chełm, Pocztowa 54, 22-100 Chełm, Poland
| | - Dariusz Jakubas
- Department of Vertebrate Ecology and Zoology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Dariusz Wiącek
- Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doświadczalna 4, 20-290 Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sujak
- Department of Biophysics, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-933 Lublin, Poland
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17
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Ishii C, Nakayama SMM, Ikenaka Y, Nakata H, Saito K, Watanabe Y, Mizukawa H, Tanabe S, Nomiyama K, Hayashi T, Ishizuka M. Lead exposure in raptors from Japan and source identification using Pb stable isotope ratios. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 186:367-373. [PMID: 28800537 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2017.07.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) poisoning is widespread among raptors and water birds. In Japan, fragments of Pb ammunition are still found in endangered eagles although more than 10 years have passed since legislation regarding use of Pb ammunition was introduced. This study was performed to investigate Pb exposure in raptors from various locations in Japan. We measured hepatic and renal Pb concentrations and hepatic Pb isotope ratios of Steller's sea eagles (Haliaeetus pelagicus), white-tailed sea eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla), golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos), and 13 other species (total 177 individuals) that were found dead, as well as blood samples from three eagles found in a weakened state during 1993-2015 from Hokkaido (northern part), Honshu (the main island), and Shikoku (a southern island) of Japan. In the present study in Hokkaido, one quarter of the sea eagles showed a high Pb concentration, suggesting exposure to abnormally high Pb levels and Pb poisoning. Pb isotope ratios indicated that endangered Steller's sea eagle and white-tailed sea eagle were poisoned by Pb ammunition that was used illegally in Hokkaido. In other areas of Japan, both surveillance and regulations were less extensive than in Hokkaido, but Pb poisoning in raptors was also noted. Therefore, Pb poisoning is still a serious problem in raptors in various areas of Japan due to accidental ingestion of materials containing Pb, especially Pb ammunition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Ishii
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan; Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Hokuto Nakata
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Keisuke Saito
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, 2-2101, Hokuto, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Yukiko Watanabe
- Institute for Raptor Biomedicine Japan, 2-2101, Hokuto, Kushiro-shi, Hokkaido, 084-0922, Japan
| | - Hazuki Mizukawa
- Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18 Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Tanabe
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama, 790-8577, Japan
| | - Kei Nomiyama
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Bunkyo-cho 2-5, Matsuyama, 790-8577, Japan
| | - Terutake Hayashi
- Tochigi Prefectural Museum, 2-2, Mutsumi-cho, Utsunomiya, Tochigi, 320-0865, Japan
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita18, Nishi9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 060-0818, Japan.
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18
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Frossard A, Carneiro MTWD, Silva ELDFD, Camargo Filho CB, Rossi Júnior JL. Concentração de elementos traços em serpentes do litoral e da região serrana do Espírito Santo. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2017001000017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RESUMO: Os elementos químicos, em sua maioria, encontram-se em ciclos bioquímicos e geoquímicos fechados e em concentrações que não causam efeitos nocivos aos organismos. Contudo, ações antrópicas aceleradas promovem alterações ambientais, como o aumento no aporte de contaminantes. Com essas informações, o presente trabalho buscou caracterizar a presença aos elementos traços em duas espécies de serpentes comuns na região sudeste, Boa constrictor e Bothrops jararaca. Os exemplares de B. constrictor (n=18) foram provenientes de atropelamentos ocorridos no trecho da Rodovia ES-060 do Km 0 ao Km 67,5. Os exemplares de B. jararaca (n=18) foram capturados por fazendeiros na zona rural da região serrana do Espírito Santo. Foram analisados 1 grama de fragmento de rim, de espécimes necropsiados. Os rins coletados foram digeridos com mistura ácida (HNO3;HCl; 1:1) a 300oC, 40min e a quantificação de microelementos (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb e Zn) foi realizada por espectrometria de emissão óptica com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP OES). Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre machos e fêmeas, exceto para Cromo nas B. constrictor (p=0,03), com média de 1,6595 nas concentrações de Cr nas fêmeas e 0,2896 em machos. Contudo, quando foram comparadas as diferentes espécies de serpentes, diferentes concentrações foram encontradas, para todos os elementos determinados, com destaque para o Ferro com uma concentração de 106,2mg/g em B. constrictor e 120,3mg/g em B. jararaca, provavelmente por esses animais virem de áreas próximas à portos de minério de ferro. A concentração de Zinco em B. constrictor foi de 1261,8mg/g e em B. jararaca foi de 28,4mg/g. O presente estudo indica que as serpentes analisadas, que habitam as regiões da Grande Vitória e serrana do Espírito Santo apresentam elevadas concentrações dos microelementos Zn e Fe.
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Kitowski I, Jakubas D, Wiącek D, Sujak A, Pitucha G. Trace element concentrations in livers of Common Buzzards Buteo buteo from eastern Poland. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2017; 189:421. [PMID: 28756588 PMCID: PMC5534201 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-017-6135-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In this study, our aim was to determine the common sources of origin of 18 elements in the livers of Common Buzzards collected during the breeding season in an extensive agricultural landscape in south-east Poland with respect to age (adults and immatures) and sex (males and females). In all 34 specimens collected, the element concentrations followed the pattern of S > Na > Fe > Mg > Zn > Si > Cu > Mn > Ba > Se > B > Pb > Hg > Cd > Cr > Ni > Sr > V. Among the heavy metals examined, only the concentration of Pb was relatively high. Given the prevalence of farmland in the studied area (and the wide use of fertilizers), common use of lead-hunting ammunition and moderate concentration of Pb in fertilizers, the indirect influence of hunting ammunition ingested with food or as gastroliths was apparently responsible for the elevated levels of Pb in the livers of Common Buzzards. In our study, no significant sex-related differences were detected in the hepatic concentrations of any element. However, a significant age effect was observed for three elements, which had elevated levels in adults (Hg) and immature birds (B, Pb), and a significant age x sex interaction was found for S and Fe. These results might be explained by the importance of these elements in bone growth in immature birds (B), variable strategies of foraging between adults and immature birds (Pb), and possible intersex differences in the immature cohort in response to the presence of lead (S, Fe).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacy Kitowski
- State School of Higher Education in Chełm, Pocztowa 54, 22-100, Chełm, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Jakubas
- Department of Vertebrate Ecology and Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Dariusz Wiącek
- Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doświadczalna 4, 20-290, Lublin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Sujak
- Department of Biophysics, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20-933, Lublin, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Pitucha
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology and Agriculture, University of Rzeszow, Rejtana 16c, 35-959, Rzeszów, Poland
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Yohannes YB, Ikenaka Y, Nakayama SMM, Mizukawa H, Ishizuka M. Trace Element Contamination in Tissues of Four Bird Species from the Rift Valley Region, Ethiopia. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2017; 98:172-177. [PMID: 28035427 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-016-2011-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Concentrations of ten trace elements (Hg, As, Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Se and Zn) were determined in different tissues (liver, kidney, muscle, heart and brain) of African sacred ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus), Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta), marabou stork (Leptoptilos crumeniferus) and great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) inhabiting the Ethiopian Rift Valley region. There were differences in trace element patterns among the bird species. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher concentrations of Cd (5.53 µg/g dw ± 2.94) in kidney and Hg (0.75 µg/g ww ± 0.30) in liver were observed in the great white pelican compared to the other species, and liver concentrations of these two elements showed positive correlations with trophic level. Concentrations of toxic elements (As, Cd, Pb and Hg) in liver were below their respective toxicological thresholds, indicating that the data may provide baseline information for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yared Beyene Yohannes
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yoshinori Ikenaka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
- Water Research Group, Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Shouta M M Nakayama
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Hazuki Mizukawa
- Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan
| | - Mayumi Ishizuka
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Environmental Veterinary Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 18, Nishi 9, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0818, Japan.
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Sato I, Yamauchi K, Tsuda S. Long-Term Survey of Cadmium and Lead Contamination in Japanese Black Bears Captured in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 97:806-812. [PMID: 27704187 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-016-1942-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium and lead were measured in liver and kidney samples of 242 Japanese black bears (Ursus thibetanus japonicus) captured from 1999 to 2014 from two local populations in Japan. The median concentration of cadmium was 0.54 (mean: 0.80) mg/kg-w.w. in liver and 7.7 (mean: 11.8) mg/kg-w.w. in kidney. The median concentration of lead was 0.24 (mean: 0.40) and 0.21 (mean: 0.32) mg/kg-w.w. in liver and kidney, respectively. Bears in the Kita-ou local population had higher concentrations of cadmium and lead than those in the Kitakami Highlands local population. No chronological change was observed in cadmium levels in tissues, but the percentage of bears whose lead levels exceeded 0.5 mg/kg-w.w. has been decreasing in recent years. Countermeasures against lead poisoning in wildlife, which were instituted in 2002, may have contributed to the decrease in lead contamination of the Japanese black bear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itaru Sato
- Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, Ueda 3-18-8, Morioka, 020-8550, Japan.
| | - Kiyoshi Yamauchi
- Research Institute for Environmental Science and Public Health of Iwate Prefecture, Kita-iioka 1-11-16, Morioka, 020-0857, Japan
| | - Shuji Tsuda
- Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University, Ueda 3-18-8, Morioka, 020-8550, Japan
- Research Institute for Environmental Science and Public Health of Iwate Prefecture, Kita-iioka 1-11-16, Morioka, 020-0857, Japan
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Kim J, Oh JM. Assessment of Trace Element Concentrations in Birds of Prey in Korea. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2016; 71:26-34. [PMID: 26662578 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-015-0247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This study presents liver concentrations of trace elements of cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus), common buzzards (Buteo buteo), common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), and Eurasian eagle owls (Bubo bubo) collected in Korea from 2007 to 2008. Iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) concentrations in common kestrel juveniles were greater than in other juveniles of birds of prey. Adult cinereous vultures had greater Fe, Pb, and Cd concentrations than in those of other species, but common kestrels had greater Mn and Cu concentrations than in those of other birds of prey. Zinc concentrations in Eurasian eagle owl juveniles and adults were greater than in juveniles and adults of other species, respectively. In common kestrels, Fe, Cu, Pb, and Cd concentrations were significantly greater in adults than in juveniles. In Eurasian eagle owls, only Pb concentrations were greater in adults than in juveniles. Essential elements, such as Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu concentrations, were within the range of other birds of prey studies. Seventeen individual birds of prey (30 %) were at a level considered Pb exposed (6-30 µg/g dw). This is a greater proportion than reported earlier in herons, egrets, and other birds from Korea. Elevated Pb concentration might be attributed to ingestion of Pb shot and bullet fragments for cinereous vultures and common buzzards, and urbanization for common kestrels. Cadmium concentrations in birds of prey were within the background concentrations (<3 µg/g dw) for wild birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, 1 Seocheon-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 446-701, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong-Min Oh
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, 1 Seocheon-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, 446-701, Republic of Korea.
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Ruiz S, Espín S, Rainio M, Ruuskanen S, Salminen JP, Lilley TM, Eeva T. Effects of dietary lead exposure on vitamin levels in great tit nestlings - An experimental manipulation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2016; 213:688-697. [PMID: 27023278 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Revised: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to metal pollution negatively affects animal physiology, including nutrient metabolism, but in the wild an effect can seldom be attributed to a single metal. Moreover, little is known about how the metabolism of vitamins, essential micronutrients for developing juveniles, is affected by toxic metals. Therefore we experimentally investigated the effects of lead (Pb), a widespread toxic metal, on four fat-soluble vitamins A (total and retinol), D3, E (total and α-tocopherol) and K and carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin and unidentified) in great tit (Parus major) nestlings. In addition to a control group where no Pb was provided, two Pb-dosed groups were compared to a metal exposed group in the vicinity of a Ni-Cu smelter. We examined whether Pb treatment affects vitamin homeostasis and how the response of Pb-treated birds relates to that of a population under industrial exposure of Pb and other metals. For this purpose, vitamin and carotenoid levels were quantified with UPLC-MS from plasma of 7 days-old nestlings. All metal exposed groups showed increased vitamin A and retinol levels. However, vitamin levels were not directly associated with fecal Pb levels, with the exception of retinol, which was positively correlated with fecal Pb. Alpha-tocopherol, lutein and zeaxanthin levels were positively associated with body mass and wing growth rate. To conclude, Pb exposure increased plasma vitamin A and retinol levels while the levels of other vitamins and carotenoids rather reflected secondary pollution effects via differences in habitat and diet quality at the smelter site. Our findings suggest Pb exposed nestlings may allocate the vitamins needed for growth and development to fight the physiological stress thus compromising their fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Ruiz
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland.
| | - Silvia Espín
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Miia Rainio
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Suvi Ruuskanen
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | | | - Thomas M Lilley
- Biology Department, Bucknell University, Pennsylvania, PA 17837, USA
| | - Tapio Eeva
- Department of Biology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
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Meyer CB, Meyer JS, Francisco AB, Holder J, Verdonck F. Can Ingestion of Lead Shot and Poisons Change Population Trends of Three European Birds: Grey Partridge, Common Buzzard, and Red Kite? PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147189. [PMID: 26799815 PMCID: PMC4723309 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the magnitude of the effects of lead shot ingestion alone or combined with poisons (e.g., in bait or seeds/granules containing pesticides) on population size, growth, and extinction of non-waterbird avian species that ingest these substances. We used population models to create example scenarios demonstrating how changes in these parameters might affect three susceptible species: grey partridge (Perdix perdix), common buzzard (Buteo buteo), and red kite (Milvus milvus). We added or subtracted estimates of mortality due to lead shot ingestion (4–16% of mortality, depending on species) and poisons (4–46% of mortality) reported in the UK or France to observed mortality of studied populations after models were calibrated to observed population trends. Observed trends were decreasing for partridge (in continental Europe), stable for buzzard (in Germany), and increasing for red kite (in Wales). Although lead shot ingestion and poison at modeled levels did not change the trend direction for the three species, they reduced population size and slowed population growth. Lead shot ingestion at modeled rates reduced population size of partridges by 10%, and when combined with bait and pesticide poisons, by 18%. For buzzards, decrease in mean population size by lead shot and poisons combined was much smaller (≤ 1%). The red kite population has been recovering; however, modeled lead shot ingestion reduced its annual growth rate from 6.5% to 4%, slowing recovery. If mortality from poisoned baits could be removed, the kite population could potentially increase at a rapid annual rate of 12%. The effects are somewhat higher if ingestion of these substances additionally causes sublethal reproductive impairment. These results have uncertainty but suggest that declining or recovering populations are most sensitive to lead shot or poison ingestion, and removal of poisoned baits can have a positive impact on recovering raptor populations that frequently feed on carrion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph S. Meyer
- Arcadis, Lakewood, Colorado, United States of America
- Department of Chemistry and Geochemistry, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, United States of America
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Lead exposure and food processing in white-tailed eagles and other scavengers: an experimental approach to simulate lead uptake at shot mammalian carcasses. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-015-0953-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Carneiro M, Colaço B, Brandão R, Azorín B, Nicolas O, Colaço J, Pires MJ, Agustí S, Casas-Díaz E, Lavin S, Oliveira PA. Assessment of the exposure to heavy metals in Griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus) from the Iberian Peninsula. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2015; 113:295-301. [PMID: 25528380 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2014.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Revised: 12/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/08/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus), by virtue of their position at the top of the food chain and as obligate scavengers, are at risk of accumulating and concentrating heavy metals in their tissues and may be more predisposed to their toxic effects. The aim of this study is to investigate heavy metal concentrations in Griffon vultures in Portugal and Catalonia, Spain and to determine if heavy metal concentrations in the blood of weak and/or injured Griffon vultures admitted to wildlife rehabilitation centres (WRC) reflect contamination profiles in the local, free-living and outwardly healthy population. Whole-blood samples taken from 121 Griffon vultures caught in the wild or admitted to WRC in Portugal and Catalonia, Spain were examined for cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Cd and Hg were not detected in most samples (98.3% and 95%, respectively), while Pb was detected in all birds in concentrations ranging between 4.97 and 300.23 µg/dl. Birds admitted to WRC had significantly lower Pb concentrations (24.15 ± 15.07 and 25.98 ± 18.04 µg/dl in Portugal and Catalonia, Spain, respectively) than animals caught in the wild (29.67 ± 13.19 and 42.22 ± 50.08 µg/dl in Portugal and Catalonia, Spain, respectively) (p<0.05). This may be explained by the fact that malnutrition was the main cause of admission of Griffon vultures to WRC, as ingestion has been described as the most significant pathway for Pb exposure in raptors. Therefore Griffon vultures admitted to WRC do not seem to be representative of the local, free-flying populations, so it remains necessary to continue catching when one intends to monitor Pb exposure in this species. The population of vultures captured in Catalonia, Spain showed the highest mean blood Pb concentration, perhaps due to the municipal rubbish dump located near the feeding station, with rubbish providing a significant fraction of their trophic needs. The ingestion of game meat with bullet fragments in carcasses or with Pb shots embedded in their flesh could also be the cause of the high blood Pb concentrations found in some vultures. The potential risk of Pb exposure in Griffon vulture populations must be given consideration, since most individuals evaluated had Pb concentrations between 20 and 100µg/dl, which is considered to be subclinical exposure to Pb, and which is above the threshold level at which Pb can affect antioxidant system in this species (15 µg/dl).
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Carneiro
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal.
| | - Bruno Colaço
- Department of Zootechnics, ECAV, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Brandão
- Ecology, Monitoring and Recovery Centre of Wild Animals (CERVAS), 6290-909 Gouveia, Portugal
| | - Beatriz Azorín
- Study and Recovery Centre of Wild Animals/Quercus, 6000-284 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Olga Nicolas
- Recovery Centre of Wild Animals from Vallcallent, 25199 Lleida, Spain
| | - Jorge Colaço
- Department of Zootechnics, ECAV, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Maria João Pires
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Department of Veterinary Sciences, ECAV, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Susana Agustí
- Servei d´Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Encarna Casas-Díaz
- Servei d´Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Santiago Lavin
- Servei d´Ecopatologia de Fauna Salvatge (SEFaS), Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Paula A Oliveira
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal; Department of Veterinary Sciences, ECAV, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Quinta dos Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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Carneiro M, Colaço B, Brandão R, Ferreira C, Santos N, Soeiro V, Colaço A, Pires MJ, Oliveira PA, Lavín S. Biomonitoring of heavy metals (Cd, Hg, and Pb) and metalloid (As) with the Portuguese common buzzard (Buteo buteo). ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2014; 186:7011-21. [PMID: 25074364 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-014-3906-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The accumulation of heavy metals in the environment may have a wide range of health effects on animals and humans. Thus, in this study, the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in the blood and tissues (liver and kidney) of Portuguese common buzzards (Buteo buteo) were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) in order to monitor environmental pollution to these elements. In general, Hg and As were the elements which appeared in the highest and lowest concentrations, respectively. A highest percentage of non-detected concentration was found for blood Cd (94.6 %) but, in turn, it was the only metal that was detected in all kidney samples. The kidney was the analyzed sample which showed the highest concentrations of each element evaluated. Statistically, significant differences among blood, liver, and kidney samples were observed for As and Cd (P < 0.05). Cd concentrations in kidney and liver varied significantly with age: Adults showed higher hepatic and renal Cd concentrations than juveniles. Blood Pb concentration seems to show an association with the hunting season. Although raptors are at the top of the food chain and are thus potentially exposed to any biomagnification processes that may occur in a food web, the individuals evaluated in this study generally had low levels of heavy metals in blood and tissues. However, chronic exposure to these metals was verified. The results presented here lend weight to arguments in favor of continuous biomonitoring of metals and metalloids, since heavy metals may accumulate to levels that will pose a risk to both human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Carneiro
- Animal and Veterinary Research Centre (CECAV), University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801, Vila Real, Portugal
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Franson JC, Russell RE. Lead and eagles: demographic and pathological characteristics of poisoning, and exposure levels associated with other causes of mortality. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2014; 23:1722-31. [PMID: 25173769 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-014-1337-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a retrospective analysis to evaluate demographic and pathologic characteristics in 484 bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and 68 golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) diagnosed with lead poisoning at the U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center. As part of our analysis, we compared characteristics of lead poisoned eagles with those that died of other causes. Odds of lead poisoning were greater for bald eagles versus golden eagles, females versus males, adults versus juveniles, and eagles from the Mississippi and Central flyways versus the Atlantic and Pacific flyways. In addition to spatial, species, and demographic associations, we detected a distinct temporal trend in the collection date of lead poisoned bald eagle carcasses. These carcasses were found at greater frequency in late autumn and winter than spring and summer. Lesions in lead poisoned birds included emaciation, evidence of bile stasis, myocardial degeneration and necrosis, and renal tubular nephrosis and necrosis. Ingested lead ammunition or fragments were found in 14.2% of bald eagles and 11.8% of golden eagles. The overall mean liver lead concentration (wet weight basis) for eagles diagnosed with lead poisoning was 28.9 ± 0.69 SE mg/kg in bald eagles and 19.4 ± 1.84 SE mg/kg in golden eagles. In eagles diagnosed with collision trauma, electrocution, poisoning (other than lead), emaciation, infectious disease, trapping death, other, and undetermined causes, average liver lead concentrations were low (<1 mg/kg) and did not differ among causes of mortality. Thus, based on our data, we found no evidence that lead exposure of eagles predisposed them to other causes of mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Christian Franson
- U.S. Geological Survey, National Wildlife Health Center, 6006 Schroeder Road, Madison, WI, 53711, USA,
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Ansara-Ross TM, Ross MJ, Wepener V. The use of feathers in monitoring bioaccumulation of metals and metalloids in the South African endangered African grass-owl (Tyto capensis). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2013; 22:1072-1083. [PMID: 23793347 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-013-1095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Few studies have quantified metals in South African species and no published data on residues specifically in South African owl feathers exist. Tyto capensis is listed as vulnerable within South Africa, making it preferable to use a non-invasive technique to determine metal bioaccumulation for this species. Comparisons are made with the cosmopolitan T. alba to determine whether this species could be used as a surrogate. Concentrations of various metals were thus determined in feathers of the two species and compared with liver and muscle samples. Samples were taken from 119 owls collected as road kill along a national road. A comparison of concentrations in feathers revealed similarly higher concentrations of aluminium, antimony, lead, nickel, and strontium, whereas concentrations of chromium, copper, iron, manganese, selenium, titanium and zinc were similarly higher in internal tissues for both species. Metal concentrations of owls were comparable to those reported in literature and below toxic levels, suggesting that these metals were not likely to impact the owls. Further regressions between feathers and corresponding livers were examined to determine if feathers were indicative of internal metal burdens. Significant positive relationships were found for aluminium, copper, lead, nickel and vanadium in T. alba and nickel, manganese and vanadium in T. capensis. Preliminary results support the feasibility of using feathers as non-destructive indicators of environmental contamination in T. capensis although caution needs to be taken when interpreting the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Ansara-Ross
- Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, PO Box 524, Johannesburg, 2006, South Africa.
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Kim J, Oh JM. Assessment of trace metals in four bird species from Korea. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2013; 185:6847-54. [PMID: 23430066 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-013-3069-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/02/2013] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
In birds, heavy metal concentrations are influenced by diet intake, migratory pattern, and residence time. In the present study, heavy metal concentrations (in microgram per gram dry weight) were measured in livers of four bird species from Korea. Iron concentrations were greater in Eurasian Woodcocks (Scolopax rusticola) than in Grey Herons (Ardea cinerea), Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta), and Schrenck's Bitterns (Ixobrychus eurhythmus). Copper concentrations in Grey Herons were significantly higher than in other species. Lead concentrations were greater in Schrenck's Bitterns and Eurasian Woodcocks than in Grey Herons and Little Egrets. Eurasian Woodcocks had higher cadmium concentrations than in other species. Zinc and manganese concentrations did not differ among species. Iron, zinc, manganese, and copper concentrations from this study were within the range of other Korean bird studies, and these concentrations were far below toxic levels. Cadmium and lead accumulation trends in each species were different, and the results might be associated with their migration pattern and residence time in Korea. Grey Herons, Little Egrets, and Schrenck's Bitterns are usually summer visitors, and Eurasian Woodcocks are passage migrants. But herons and egrets were collected in spring, autumn, and winter, but not during breeding season. They might be residents, so they could more reflect Korean cadmium and lead contaminations than Schrenck's Bitterns. However, Eurasian Woodcocks could more reflect habitats outside Korea because of their short staying time in Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, 1 Seocheon-dong, Giheung-gu, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 446-701, Republic of Korea.
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Hoshyari E, Pourkhabbaz A, Mansouri B. Assessment of trace elements concentrations in Western reef heron (Egretta gularis) from southern Iran. Toxicol Ind Health 2012; 31:60-6. [PMID: 23235995 DOI: 10.1177/0748233712468022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article was to investigate the levels of metals, cadmium, lead, and zinc, in Western reef heron (Egretta gularis) (n = 15) in order to (1) examine the sex-related variation in trace metal accumulation and (2) determine the significant differences between the metal concentrations in the kidney, liver, and pectoral muscle. Bird samples were collected from throughout the Hara biosphere reserve of southern Iran, during November and December 2010 and the concentration of metals were measured using a Shimadzu AA 680 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The overall cadmium, lead and zinc concentrations means were measured as 0.8 ± 0.1, 3.4 ± 1.1, and 29.4 ± 12.9 μg/g for kidney; 0.7 ± 0.1, 2.2 ± 0.5, and 65.9 ± 20.7 μg/g for liver; and 0.2 ± 0.1, 2.2 ± 0.7, and 17.6 ± 12.9 μg/g for pectoral muscle, respectively. The results showed that with the exception of cadmium in liver, there were no significant differences between males and females (t test, p > 0.05). In the contrast, the results indicated metal concentrations differed significantly in kidneys, livers, and pectoral muscles among tissues in Western reef heron (one-way analysis of variance, p < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim Hoshyari
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Birjand University, Birjand, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Alireza Pourkhabbaz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Birjand University, Birjand, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Borhan Mansouri
- Young Researchers Club, Kermanshah Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah, Islamic Republic of Iran
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Knott J, Gilbert J, Hoccom DG, Green RE. Implications for wildlife and humans of dietary exposure to lead from fragments of lead rifle bullets in deer shot in the UK. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 409:95-9. [PMID: 20937520 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2010.08.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2010] [Revised: 08/23/2010] [Accepted: 08/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Lead poisoning caused by ingested spent lead shotgun pellets has long been known to be a cause of unnecessary mortality in waterfowl and has led to legislation limiting its use in many countries. Recent evidence has shown that the problem extends to terrestrial ecosystems and to fragmented rifle bullets eaten by scavengers as well as shotgun pellets. Dietary exposure of human consumers to lead from spent ammunition in game meat also poses potential risks to human health. To assess the degree of fragmentation of lead bullets used to kill wild deer, twelve deer were shot in the thorax using copper-jacketed lead-cored bullets, as part of planned deer management operations. The thoracic region of the eviscerated carcasses and the abdominal viscera of each deer were X-rayed. An average of 356 metal fragments was visible on radiographs of the carcass and 180 fragments in the viscera. The weight of fragments was estimated by reference to an X-rayed scale of fragments of known weight. The average total weight of metal fragments, likely to be mostly lead, was estimated to be 1.2g for the carcass and 0.2g for the viscera. The total estimated weight of fragments in the entire carcass was estimated to be 17% of the weight of the bullet. Most fragments were small in size, with those in the viscera being smaller than those in the carcass. Metal fragments in the viscera were sufficiently small that at least 80% of the metallic bullet-derived lead in the viscera would be expected to be ingested by scavenging birds, such as buzzards and eagles, which feed on them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Knott
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, UK.
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Individuals and populations: the role of long-term, individual-based studies of animals in ecology and evolutionary biology. Trends Ecol Evol 2010; 25:562-73. [PMID: 20828863 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2010.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 514] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2010] [Revised: 08/01/2010] [Accepted: 08/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Many important questions in ecology and evolutionary biology can only be answered with data that extend over several decades and answering a substantial proportion of questions requires records of the life histories of recognisable individuals. We identify six advantages that long-term, individual based studies afford in ecology and evolution: (i) analysis of age structure; (ii) linkage between life history stages; (iii) quantification of social structure; (iv) derivation of lifetime fitness measures; (v) replication of estimates of selection; (vi) linkage between generations, and we review their impact on studies in six key areas of evolution and ecology. Our review emphasises the unusual opportunities and productivity of long-term, individual-based studies and documents the important role that they play in research on ecology and evolutionary biology as well as the difficulties they face.
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Martins NRS, Marques MVR, DAR V, Resende JS, Carvalhaes AG, Andrade EAG, Barrios PR. Lead poisoning mortality in wild passeriformes and its detection in free-range chicken eggs in Southern Minas Gerais, Brazil. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2010. [DOI: 10.1590/s1516-635x2010000300002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vilela DAR
- Instituto Brasileiro de Meio Ambiente e Renováveis
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Helander B, Axelsson J, Borg H, Holm K, Bignert A. Ingestion of lead from ammunition and lead concentrations in white-tailed sea eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla) in Sweden. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2009; 407:5555-63. [PMID: 19683793 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2009] [Revised: 07/15/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In this study we show for the first time that lead poisoning from ammunition is a significant mortality factor for white-tailed sea eagle (WSE) (Haliaeetus albicilla) in Sweden. We analyzed 118 WSEs collected between 1981 and 2004 from which both liver and kidney samples could be taken. A total of 22% of all eagles examined had elevated (>6 microg/gd.w.) lead concentrations, indicating exposure to leaded ammunition, and 14% of the individuals had either liver or kidney lead concentrations diagnostic of lethal lead poisoning (>20 microg/gd.w.). Lead concentrations in liver and kidney were significantly correlated. In individuals with lead levels <6 microg/g, concentrations were significantly higher in kidney than in liver; in individuals with lead levels >20 microg/g, concentrations were significantly higher in liver. The lead isotope ratios indicate that the source of lead in individuals with lethal concentrations is different from that of individuals exhibiting background concentrations of lead (<6 microg/gd.w.) There were no significant sex or age differences in lead concentrations. A study from the Baltic reported in principle no biomagnification of lead, but background lead concentrations in WSE liver in this study were still four to >10 times higher than concentrations reported for Baltic fish from the same time period. In contrast to other biota there was no decrease in lead concentrations in WSE over the study period. The proportion of lead poisoned WSE remained unchanged over the study period, including two years after a partial ban of lead shot was enforced in 2002 for shallow wetlands. The use of lead in ammunition poses a threat to all raptors potentially feeding on shot game or offal. The removal of offal from shot game and alternatives to leaded ammunition needs to be implemented in order to prevent mortality from lead in raptors and scavengers.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Helander
- Department of Contaminant Research, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Box 50007, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Hernández M, Margalida A. Assessing the risk of lead exposure for the conservation of the endangered Pyrenean bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) population. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2009; 109:837-842. [PMID: 19501352 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2009.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2009] [Revised: 04/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Acute and chronic lead (Pb) poisoning have been recognized as some of the most important causes of mortality for raptors worldwide. We simultaneously examined the recent, medium-term and long-term lead exposure of the endangered bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus) from the Pyrenees (northern Spain and southern France). One hundred and one blood samples from 87 captured individuals and tissue samples (liver and bone) from a further 43 dead individuals were analyzed for lead residues. The majority of individuals examined had very low lead concentrations in blood, liver and bone. However, two individuals showed elevated blood Pb levels, two individuals showed liver lead concentrations indicative of excessive lead exposure and one individual showed bone lead levels indicative of chronic lead poisoning, suggesting that the Pyrenean population is not free from the risk of poisoning. We found that Pb exposure was significantly higher in adult individuals as well as in the northern (France) and eastern (Catalonia) range of their distribution. These differences could be related to different feeding habits between age classes (pre-adults are more linked to supplementary feeding sites) and differences in hunting practices between regions (in some regions, carcasses and offal of game animals are not retrieved). Blood, liver and bone lead levels found were slightly higher during the hunting season than outside of the hunting season. Lead presents an unnecessary threat to adult birds and the only way to remove this risk is to ban all hunting with lead within the range of distribution of the endangered bearded vulture. Acute and chronic lead poisoning should be considered in differential diagnosis in any diseased or injured wild bearded vulture, especially subadult and adult individuals, and the potential risk of Pb poisoning should be considered in future reintroduction programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Hernández
- Laboratorio Forense de Vida Silvestre (LFVS), Edificio Alba, C/Rosa de Lima, 1, E-28290 Las Matas, Madrid, Spain.
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37
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Selected radionuclides and heavy metals in skeletons of birds of prey from eastern Poland. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-009-0029-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Pérez-López M, Hermoso de Mendoza M, López Beceiro A, Soler Rodríguez F. Heavy metal (Cd, Pb, Zn) and metalloid (As) content in raptor species from Galicia (NW Spain). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2008; 70:154-62. [PMID: 17617459 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2007.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2006] [Revised: 04/10/2007] [Accepted: 04/20/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
As top consumers in food chains, birds of prey forage over large geographical areas and so might be expected to accumulate environmental contaminants which are distributed in the environment. These wild animals can offer opportunities to detect and assess the toxicological effects of different inorganic elements on terrestrial ecosystems. In this study, different raptor species, both diurnal and nocturnal, were investigated for heavy metal (Pb, Cd and Zn) and As concentrations in liver samples, with the aim of furnishing indirect information concerning contamination of their habitats. Dead animals were obtained with the special collaboration of the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centres from Galicia (NW Spain). After sample wet digestion, metal analysis was performed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Hepatic concentrations of Zn and As, respectively, situated on the interval 147-298 and 1.21-6.88 ppm (dry weight, dw), could be considered as indicative of low and background amounts of both elements, with no ecotoxicological concern. Nevertheless, with respect to Pb, some diurnal raptors showed hepatic concentrations above the considered threshold value (6 ppm dw) for sublethal or lethal toxicity, the species with the highest hepatic level corresponding to a common buzzard (>18 ppm, dw). Similarly, nocturnal raptors exceeded the threshold value for Cd (3 ppm dw), with a maximum corresponding to an individual barn owl (39 ppm, dw). In both cases, although concentrations could not be directly related to lethal effect, they might constitute a serious environmental factor affecting the survival of the considered populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Pérez-López
- Toxicology Area, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UEX), Avda de la Universidad s/n, 10071 Caceres, Spain.
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Martin PA, Campbell D, Hughes K, McDaniel T. Lead in the tissues of terrestrial raptors in southern Ontario, Canada, 1995-2001. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2008; 391:96-103. [PMID: 18063010 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2007] [Revised: 11/05/2007] [Accepted: 11/06/2007] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Terrestrial raptors which feed on upland hunted game species may increase their risk to lead exposure and lead poisoning by ingesting lead shot found in the tissues of prey. Lead exposure in 225 individuals of nineteen species of terrestrial raptors, collected as carcasses in southern Ontario from 1995-2001, was examined through the analysis of bone, liver and kidney tissues. In this study, one red-tailed hawk contained liver lead concentrations and exhibited signs consistent with lead poisoning. Liver and kidney concentrations of one turkey vulture were also significantly higher than that associated with subclinical effects. This same bird, plus another turkey vulture and a northern harrier, had elevated bone lead concentrations (>10 microg/g dw) associated with possible toxicity. Turkey vultures had the highest mean concentrations of lead in bone and kidney compared to other raptor species. While it appeared only a single bird suffered acute lead poisoning, lead levels exceeded threshold concentrations associated with subclinical or acute toxicity in 4 of 225, almost 2%, of terrestrial raptors assessed. Given the association between lead exposure in raptors and hunting of game species reported in other studies, the continued use of lead shot for upland hunting in Ontario likely remains as one of the primary sources of lead and a continued risk to these birds of prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela A Martin
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment Canada, 867 Lakeshore Road, Burlington, Ontario, Canada.
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Kim J, Lee H, Koo TH. Heavy-metal concentrations in three owl species from Korea. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2008; 17:21-8. [PMID: 17955366 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-007-0172-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2007] [Accepted: 09/21/2007] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This study presents concentrations of heavy metals (iron, zinc, manganese, copper, lead, and cadmium) in livers of three owl species from Korea. Essential trace elements (iron, zinc, manganese, and copper) did not differ among the owl species. We suggest that the essential elements are within the normal range and are maintained by normal homeostatic mechanisms. Lead and cadmium concentrations in Eurasian Eagle Owls (Bubo bubo) were significantly lower than in Brown Hawk Owls (Nixos scutulata) and Collared Scops Owls (Otus lempiji). Lead and cadmium concentrations in Korean owl species were at background levels; lead concentrations in two Collared Scops Owls were above background concentrations. Lead and cadmium concentrations were similar to concentrations previously reported in owls from other parts of the world. We suggest that lead and cadmium concentrations in Korean owls are below toxic concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungsoo Kim
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do 446-701, Republic of Korea.
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Pain DJ, Carter I, Sainsbury AW, Shore RF, Eden P, Taggart MA, Konstantinos S, Walker LA, Meharg AA, Raab A. Lead contamination and associated disease in captive and reintroduced red kites Milvus milvus in England. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2007; 376:116-27. [PMID: 17307237 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2007.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2006] [Revised: 12/20/2006] [Accepted: 01/05/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Since 1989, a red kite Milvus milvus reintroduction programme has been underway in the United Kingdom, with 4-6 week old nestlings brought into captivity and held for 6-8 weeks before reintroduction. As scavengers, red kites may consume unretrieved game, and ingest shot or lead (Pb) fragments in their prey's flesh. We evaluated exposure to Pb in captive and wild red kites by taking blood samples from 125 captive young red kites prior to release, through analysing 264 pellets (regurgitated by wild birds) collected from under a roost site, and analysing Pb concentrations in livers and/or bones of 87 red kites found dead between 1995 and 2003. Lead isotope analyses of livers were also conducted in an effort to identify Pb exposure routes. Forty-six (36.8%) kites sampled prior to release had elevated blood Pb concentrations (201-3340 microg l(-1)). The source of this Pb was probably small fragments of lead ammunition in the carcasses of birds or mammals either fed to the nestlings by their parents or, more likely, subsequently whilst in captivity. Once released, kites were also exposed to lead shot in their food, and a minimum of 1.5-2.3% of regurgitated pellets contained Pb gunshot. Seven of 44 red kites found dead or that were captured sick and died within a few days had elevated (>6 mg kg(-1) dry weight [d.w.]) liver Pb concentrations, and six of these (14%) had concentrations of >15 mg kg(-1) d.w., compatible with fatal Pb poisoning. Post-mortem analyses indicated that two of these birds had died of other causes (poisoning by rodenticide and a banned agricultural pesticide); the remaining four (9%) probably died of Pb poisoning. Bone samples from 86 red kites showed a skewed distribution of Pb concentration, and 18 samples (21%) had Pb concentrations >20 mg kg(-1) d.w., indicating elevated exposure to Pb at some stage in the birds' life. Lead isotopic signatures (Pb (208/206); Pb (206/207)) in liver samples of the majority of kites were compatible with those found in lead shot extracted from regurgitated pellets. Lead isotope ratios found in the livers of kites with very low Pb concentrations were distinct from UK petrol Pb isotopic signatures, indicating that birds were exposed to little residual petrol Pb. We conclude that the primary source of Pb to which red kites are exposed is lead ammunition (shotgun pellets or rifle bullets), or fragments thereof, in their food sources; in some cases exposure appears sufficient to be fatal. We make recommendations to reduce Pb poisoning in both captive and wild red kites and other scavenging species.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Pain
- Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire SG19 2DL, UK.
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Scheifler R, Coeurdassier M, Morilhat C, Bernard N, Faivre B, Flicoteaux P, Giraudoux P, Noël M, Piotte P, Rieffel D, de Vaufleury A, Badot PM. Lead concentrations in feathers and blood of common blackbirds (Turdus merula) and in earthworms inhabiting unpolluted and moderately polluted urban areas. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2006; 371:197-205. [PMID: 17055037 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2006.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2006] [Revised: 09/08/2006] [Accepted: 09/09/2006] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite the dramatic decrease of atmospheric lead (Pb) concentrations in urban areas of most industrialised countries, we hypothesised that urban common blackbirds (Turdus merula) may still be contaminated by Pb concentrations of toxicological concern due to transfer from soil through the food chain. We sampled blackbirds and earthworms, one of their main preys, in Besançon, a middle-size city of Eastern France (where atmospheric Pb concentrations decreased from 0.5 microg/m(3) in 1987 to nearly 0 in 2002) and in a rural reference site. Lead concentrations were determined in the tissues of the different functional groups of earthworms (anecic, epigeous and endogeous) and in blood, washed and unwashed outermost tail feathers and breast feathers of blackbirds. Fresh masses and an index of individual body condition were measured in the two blackbird populations as biomarkers of possible toxic effects. Lead concentrations in earthworms did not differ among functional groups but were significantly higher in urban individuals than in rural ones. Concentrations in outermost tail feathers, breast feathers and blood were significantly higher in urban blackbirds (7.75+/-4.50, 3.15+/-1.77 and 0.15+/-0.09 microg/g, respectively) than in rural individuals. In urban blackbirds, concentrations in washed and unwashed outermost tail feathers allowed estimating the external contamination (probably due to deposition of dusts and/or to excretion of the uropygial gland) at 37% of the total Pb concentration of the unwashed feathers. Remaining 63% should be linked to food chain transfer of persistent Pb from urban soils. Among the 23 sampled blackbirds, 4 of them (3 in the urban site and 1 in the rural site) exhibited blood Pb concentrations higher than the benchmark value (0.20 microg/g) related to subclinical and physiological effects in birds. Variations in body condition index were not correlated to Pb concentrations in blackbird tissues. Present results suggest that Pb may still be of environmental concern for blackbirds in urban areas because of the persistence of Pb in soils and its transfer through the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Scheifler
- Université de Franche-Comté, Department of Environmental Biology, EA 3184 UsC INRA, Place Leclerc, 25030 Besançon Cedex, France.
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Sobańska MA. Wild boar hair (Sus scrofa) as a non-invasive indicator of mercury pollution. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2005; 339:81-88. [PMID: 15740760 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2004.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2004] [Revised: 07/05/2004] [Accepted: 07/18/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This paper investigates the usefulness of wild boar (Sus scrofa) hair as a non-invasive indicator of mercury pollution. Samples were collected in two hunting seasons (1998/1999 and 1999/2000) by hunters from four differently polluted regions of Poland. Mercury content was determined by AAS methods. Different washing procedures were compared. De-ionised water was found to be suitable for the removal of exogenous mercury sources in hair analysis. Metal distribution along hair was analysed. It was found that problems arising from differences in distribution of metal along a single hair strand as well as differences in the hair colour can be eliminated through the careful homogenisation of the samples before analysis. The influences of physiological, ecological and environmental factors that might significantly affect the obtained results (age, gender, season, location of habitat and diet of the sampled animals) were estimated and taken into account. The present study revealed that female hair contained a higher amount of mercury than male hair. Moreover the highest mercury content was found in young individuals between 1 and 2 years of age. A positive correlation of the present results with environmental data taken from the State Offices showed an influence of environmental pollution on the mercury level in wild boar hair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta A Sobańska
- European Commission Joint Research Centre, European Chemicals Bureau, TP582, Via E. Fermi, Ispra (VA), Italy.
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Battaglia A, Ghidini S, Campanini G, Spaggiari R. Heavy metal contamination in little owl (Athene noctua) and common buzzard (Buteo buteo) from northern Italy. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2005; 60:61-66. [PMID: 15482841 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2003.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2003] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In this study, two raptor species, the common buzzard (Buteo buteo) and the little owl (Athene noctua), were investigated for lead and cadmium concentrations, using liver, kidneys, pectoral muscle, sternum bone, and feathers. All the collected birds died at the Centro Recupero Rapaci of Lega Italiana Protezione Uccelli in Sala Baganza (Parma, Italy). They arrived alive at the Centro between November 1998 and November 1999 but died or were put to death as a consequence of injuries or other ailments. The results of the investigation do not show an excessive exposure to cadmium, whereas some interesting data have emerged in the case of lead. The concentration of the latter in the liver and in the bone of two little owls seem to suggest the possibility of chronic exposure. The high values found in one common buzzard, on the other hand, suggest an acute exposure and, probably, a case of lead shot ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Battaglia
- Dipartimento di Produzioni Animali, Biotecnologie Veterinarie, Qualità e Sicurezza degli Alimenti, Facoltà di Medicina Veterinaria, Università di Parma, 43100 Parma, Italy.
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Dauwe T, Bervoets L, Pinxten R, Blust R, Eens M. Variation of heavy metals within and among feathers of birds of prey: effects of molt and external contamination. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2003; 124:429-36. [PMID: 12758023 DOI: 10.1016/s0269-7491(03)00044-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In this study we examined the effect of external contamination on the heavy metal (Ag, Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) concentration in feathers. We compared the heavy metal content among the 10 primary wing feathers of sparrowhawks (Accipiter nisus), little owls (Athene nocta) and barn owls (Tyto alba) and the variation within the outermost tail feather of sparrowhawks and tawny owls (Strix aluco). The concentration of Hg was significantly higher in feathers molted first, suggesting that levels in feathers reflect levels in the blood during formation. For some other elements (Al, Co, Ni, Pb, Zn) on the other hand, there are strong indications that external contamination may have an important impact on the levels detected in the feathers. This should be taken into account in future monitoring studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Dauwe
- Department of Biology, University of Antwerp (UIA), Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium.
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Mateo R, Taggart M, Meharg AA. Lead and arsenic in bones of birds of prey from Spain. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2003; 126:107-114. [PMID: 12860107 DOI: 10.1016/s0269-7491(03)00055-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The bones (humerus and/or femur) of 229 birds of prey from 11 species were analyzed for Pb and As to evaluate their exposure to Pb shot. The species with the highest mean Pb levels were red kite (Milvus milvus) and Eurasian griffon (Gyps fulvus), and the species with the lowest levels were Eurasian buzzard (Buteo buteo) and booted eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus). Red kite also had the highest mean As level, an element present in small amounts in Pb shot. Elevated bone Pb concentrations (>10 microg/g dry weight) were found in 10 birds from six species. Clinical signs compatible with lethal Pb poisoning and/or excessive bone Pb concentrations (>20 microg/g) were observed in one Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo), one red kite, and one Eurasian griffon. Pb poisoning has been diagnosed in eight upland raptor species in Spain to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mateo
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, E-08193 Bellaterra, Spain.
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Sainsbury AW, Kirkwood JK, Bennett PM, Cunningham AA. Status of wildlife health monitoring in the United Kingdom. Vet Rec 2001; 148:558-63. [PMID: 11370880 DOI: 10.1136/vr.148.18.558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
There is a clear need to monitor the health of wildlife in the UK, to help to understand the population dynamics of endangered species and to detect any harm to the welfare of wild animals caused by human beings. Despite previous proposals, there has been little progress in the development of a national programme of monitoring. With notable exceptions, the current schemes for investigating the morbidity and mortality of wild animals cover only limited groups of animals and are fragmented and uncoordinated. They consist of statutory schemes of restricted scope, and studies in universities, institutes and wildlife rehabilitation centres with limited funding. As a result, significant disease incidents may remain undetected and others may not be investigated fully, posing risks to the welfare and conservation of wildlife, the welfare of domestic animals, and in some cases to human health. Coordinated national schemes for the surveillance of the health of wildlife are already established in France, the USA and Canada and their best characteristics could be used to develop a scheme for the UK.
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Miller MJ, Wayland ME, Bortolotti GR. Exposure of migrant bald eagles to lead in prairie Canada. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2001; 112:153-162. [PMID: 11234531 DOI: 10.1016/s0269-7491(00)00122-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of elevated exposure to lead was assessed in a migrant population of bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) at a waterfowl staging area in the southern portion of the Canadian prairies, from September to November, 1992-1995. Of 103 eagles, 8% exhibited blood lead (PbB) concentrations suggestive of elevated exposure to lead (> or = 0.200 microgram ml-1 wet wt.). PbB concentrations in eagles from the study area ranged from < 0.01 to 0.585 microgram ml-1, while those of nestling eagles from a reference site indicated normal or background exposure (< 0.01 microgram ml-1). No differences in the prevalence of elevated exposure were detected among genders or age classes (0.5- and > or = 1.5-year-old birds) (P > 0.05). The prevalence of elevated exposure was significantly greater in November than in October (21.7 vs. 3.8%) (all years: chi 2Y = 5.75, P = 0.017). Eagles with shotshell pellets in the digestive tract did not have accompanying high PbB concentrations. The prevalence of elevated lead exposure in this study was low in comparison to other areas in North America. Potential biases in the trapping technique as they relate to interpreting the results are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Miller
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon SK, Canada S7N 5E2.
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Mateo R, Cadenas R, Máñez M, Guitart R. Lead shot ingestion in two raptor species from Doñana, Spain. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2001; 48:6-10. [PMID: 11161671 DOI: 10.1006/eesa.2000.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Diurnal raptors inhabiting wetland areas where waterfowl shooting is conducted have many opportunities to ingest lead (Pb) shot pellets when feeding on their prey. Exposure to Pb shot was studied in the Spanish imperial eagle (Aquila adalberti), an endangered species with a world population of about 150 breeding pairs, and in the red kite (Milvus milvus) from Doñana (southwest Spain). Lead exposure was evaluated by the presence of Pb shot in the pellets of both species. Results obtained by this noninvasive method demonstrated Pb shot in 11.0% of Spanish imperial eagle and 5.5% of red kite pellets. When the data of both species were pooled, there was a significant relationship between Pb shot ingestion and consumption of waterfowl during the hunting season. Pb shot found in pellets exhibited signs of erosion, and their weight distribution had peaks at 70, 170, and 240 mg, which could correspond to ammunition used for duck and goose hunting.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Mateo
- El Acebuche-Matalascañas, Doñana National Park, Almonte, 21760, Spain.
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