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Evers DC, Ackerman JT, Åkerblom S, Bally D, Basu N, Bishop K, Bodin N, Braaten HFV, Burton MEH, Bustamante P, Chen C, Chételat J, Christian L, Dietz R, Drevnick P, Eagles-Smith C, Fernandez LE, Hammerschlag N, Harmelin-Vivien M, Harte A, Krümmel EM, Brito JL, Medina G, Barrios Rodriguez CA, Stenhouse I, Sunderland E, Takeuchi A, Tear T, Vega C, Wilson S, Wu P. Global mercury concentrations in biota: their use as a basis for a global biomonitoring framework. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024:10.1007/s10646-024-02747-x. [PMID: 38683471 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-024-02747-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
An important provision of the Minamata Convention on Mercury is to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the adopted measures and its implementation. Here, we describe for the first time currently available biotic mercury (Hg) data on a global scale to improve the understanding of global efforts to reduce the impact of Hg pollution on people and the environment. Data from the peer-reviewed literature were compiled in the Global Biotic Mercury Synthesis (GBMS) database (>550,000 data points). These data provide a foundation for establishing a biomonitoring framework needed to track Hg concentrations in biota globally. We describe Hg exposure in the taxa identified by the Minamata Convention: fish, sea turtles, birds, and marine mammals. Based on the GBMS database, Hg concentrations are presented at relevant geographic scales for continents and oceanic basins. We identify some effective regional templates for monitoring methylmercury (MeHg) availability in the environment, but overall illustrate that there is a general lack of regional biomonitoring initiatives around the world, especially in Africa, Australia, Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and South Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Temporal trend data for Hg in biota are generally limited. Ecologically sensitive sites (where biota have above average MeHg tissue concentrations) have been identified throughout the world. Efforts to model and quantify ecosystem sensitivity locally, regionally, and globally could help establish effective and efficient biomonitoring programs. We present a framework for a global Hg biomonitoring network that includes a three-step continental and oceanic approach to integrate existing biomonitoring efforts and prioritize filling regional data gaps linked with key Hg sources. We describe a standardized approach that builds on an evidence-based evaluation to assess the Minamata Convention's progress to reduce the impact of global Hg pollution on people and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA.
| | - Joshua T Ackerman
- U.S. Geological Survey, Western Ecological Research Center, Dixon Field Station, 800 Business Park Drive, Suite D, Dixon, CA, 95620, USA
| | | | - Dominique Bally
- African Center for Environmental Health, BP 826 Cidex 03, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Nil Basu
- Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kevin Bishop
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Upsalla, Sweden
| | - Nathalie Bodin
- Research Institute for Sustainable Development Seychelles Fishing Authority, Victoria, Seychelles
| | | | - Mark E H Burton
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Paco Bustamante
- Littoral, Environnement et Sociétés (LIENSs), UMR 7266 CNRS La Rochelle Université, 2 Rue Olympe de Gouges, 17000, La Rochelle, France
| | - Celia Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
| | - John Chételat
- Environment and Cliamte Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Linroy Christian
- Department of Analytical Services, Dunbars, Friars Hill, St John, Antigua and Barbuda
| | - Rune Dietz
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Arctic Research Centre (ARC), Department of Ecoscience, P.O. Box 358, DK-4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Paul Drevnick
- Teck American Incorporated, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Collin Eagles-Smith
- U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, 3200 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Luis E Fernandez
- Sabin Center for Environment and Sustainability and Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, 29106, USA
- Centro de Innovación Científica Amazonica (CINCIA), Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, Peru
| | - Neil Hammerschlag
- Shark Research Foundation Inc, 29 Wideview Lane, Boutiliers Point, NS, B3Z 0M9, Canada
| | - Mireille Harmelin-Vivien
- Aix-Marseille Université, Université de Toulon, CNRS/INSU/IRD, Institut Méditerranéen d'Océanologie (MIO), UM 110, Campus de Luminy, case 901, 13288, Marseille, cedex 09, France
| | - Agustin Harte
- Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions Secretariat, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Chem. des Anémones 15, 1219, Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Eva M Krümmel
- Inuit Circumpolar Council-Canada, Ottawa, Canada and ScienTissiME Inc, Barry's Bay, ON, Canada
| | - José Lailson Brito
- Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rua Sao Francisco Xavier, 524, Sala 4002, CEP 20550-013, Maracana, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Medina
- Director of Basel Convention Coordinating Centre, Stockholm Convention Regional Centre for Latin America and the Caribbean, Hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Iain Stenhouse
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Elsie Sunderland
- Harvard University, Pierce Hall 127, 29 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Akinori Takeuchi
- National Institute for Environmental Studies, Health and Environmental Risk Division, 16-2 Onogawa Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Tim Tear
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - Claudia Vega
- Centro de Innovaccion Cientifica Amazonica (CINCIA), Jiron Ucayali 750, Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, 17001, Peru
| | - Simon Wilson
- Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP) Secretariat, N-9296, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Pianpian Wu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA
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Castle JR, Brown D, Watson K, Slankard K, Allen T. Changes in Bald Eagle Nesting Distribution and Nest-Site Selection in Kentucky during 1986–2019. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2023. [DOI: 10.1656/045.030.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Slankard KG, Patton MD, Mojica EK, Watts BD, Hays JL. Satellite Tracking Data Reveals High-Use Areas for Immature Bald Eagles from Kentucky. AMERICAN MIDLAND NATURALIST 2022. [DOI: 10.1674/0003-0031-187.1.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kate G. Slankard
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort 40601
| | - Michael D. Patton
- Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, 1 Sportsman's Lane, Frankfort 40601
| | - Elizabeth K. Mojica
- Center for Conservation Biology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia 23187
| | - Bryan D. Watts
- Center for Conservation Biology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia 23187
| | - Jeffrey L. Hays
- RAPTOR Incorporated, 961 Barg Salt Run Road, Milford Ohio 45150
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DeSorbo CR, Burgess NM, Nye PE, Loukmas JJ, Brant HA, Burton MEH, Persico CP, Evers DC. Bald eagle mercury exposure varies with region and site elevation in New York, USA. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2020; 29:1862-1876. [PMID: 31925622 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-019-02153-8] [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] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater fish in several regions of New York State (NYS) are known to contain concentrations of mercury (Hg) associated with negative health effects in wildlife and humans. We collected blood and breast feathers from bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) nestlings throughout NYS, with an emphasis on the Catskill region to determine their exposure to Hg. We assessed whether habitat type (lake or river), region (Delaware-Catskill region vs. rest of NY) or sample site elevation influenced Hg concentrations in bald eagle breast feathers using ANCOVA. The model was significant and accounted for 41% of the variability in log10 breast feather Hg concentrations. Mercury concentrations in nestling breast feathers were significantly greater in the Delaware-Catskill Region (geometric mean: 14.5 µg/g dw) than in the rest of NY (7.4 µg/g, dw), and greater at nests located at higher elevations. Habitat type (river vs. lake) did not have a significant influence on breast feather Hg concentrations. Geometric mean blood Hg concentrations were significantly greater in Catskill nestlings (0.78 µg/g ww) than in those from the rest of NY (0.32 µg/g). Mercury concentrations in nestling breast feathers and especially blood samples from the Delaware-Catskill region were generally greater than those reported for most populations sampled elsewhere, including areas associated with significant Hg pollution problems. Bald eagles can serve as valuable Hg bioindicators in aquatic ecosystems of NYS, particularly given their broad statewide distribution and their tendency to nest across all major watersheds and different habitat types.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R DeSorbo
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA.
| | - N M Burgess
- Environment & Climate Change Canada, 6 Bruce Street, Mount Pearl, NL, A1N 4T3, Canada
| | - P E Nye
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12233-4753, USA
- 1926 Tarrytown Rd., Feura Bush, NY, 12067, USA
| | - J J Loukmas
- New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY, 12233-4753, USA
| | - H A Brant
- Savannah River National Laboratory, Aiken, SC, USA
| | - M E H Burton
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - C P Persico
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
| | - D C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Road, Portland, ME, 04103, USA
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Wu Y, Simon KL, Best DA, Bowerman W, Venier M. Novel and legacy per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in bald eagle eggs from the Great Lakes region. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 260:113811. [PMID: 32369891 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Decades of large-scale production of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have resulted in their ubiquitous presence in the environment worldwide. Similarly to other persistent and bioaccumulative organic contaminants, some PFASs, particularly the long-chain congeners, can be biomagnified via food webs, making top predators vulnerable to elevated PFAS exposure. In this study, we measured seven classes of PFASs in bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) eggs for the first time. The eggs (n = 22) were collected from the North American Great Lakes in 2000-2012. The ranges of total concentrations of perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids (∑PFSAs) and perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (∑PFCAs) were 30.5-1650 and 5.4-216 ng/g wet weight (ww), respectively. In addition to these traditional PFAS compounds, 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonic acid (6:2 FTS; median: 15.7 ng/g ww), perfluoro-4-ethylcyclohexanesulfonic acid (PFECHS; 0.22 ng/g ww), and 8-chloro-perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (Cl-PFOS, detected in wildlife for the first time; 0.53 ng/g ww) were also frequently detected. Bald eagle eggs from breeding areas located less than 8 km from a Great Lake shoreline or tributary had significantly greater total PFAS concentrations (∑PFASs) than those from breeding areas located further than 8 km (p < 0.05). In these samples, ∑PFASs rivalled the total concentration of brominated flame retardants, and were significantly greater than those of several other organic contaminants, such as dechlorane-related compounds, organophosphate esters, and flame retardant metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wu
- School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Kendall L Simon
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Jersey Field Office, Galloway, NJ 08205, USA
| | - David A Best
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-retired, Ecological Services Field Office, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA
| | - William Bowerman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Marta Venier
- School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
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Slabe VA, Anderson JT, Cooper J, Brown B, Ortiz P, Buchweitz J, McRuer D, Katzner T. Lead in piscivorous raptors during breeding season in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland and Virginia, USA. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2019; 38:862-871. [PMID: 30698866 DOI: 10.1002/etc.4376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Sources of lead exposure of many bird species are poorly understood. We analyzed blood lead concentrations from osprey (n = 244; Pandion haliaetus) and bald eagles (n = 68; Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and documented potential sources of lead they may encounter. Adult bald eagles had higher blood lead concentrations than did adult osprey. However, blood lead concentrations of nestlings were similar for both species. Although 62% of osprey had detectable lead concentrations ( x¯ = 1.99 ± 4.02 μg/dL, mean ± standard deviation [SD]), there was no difference in the detection frequency or lead concentrations between osprey adults and nestlings. Likewise, we found no differences in the detection frequency or lead concentrations in osprey adults and nestlings from high- and low-salinity areas. Of the bald eagle samples tested, 55% had detectable lead levels ( x¯ = 6.23 ± 10.74 μg/dL). Adult bald eagles had more detectable and higher lead concentrations than did nestlings or pre-adults. Among environmental samples, paint had the highest lead concentrations, followed by sediment, blue catfish (Ictalurus furcatus), and gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum). There was no correlation between blood lead concentrations of osprey adults and their offspring. Our results indicate that, in the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland and Virginia (USA), there are multiple sources by which piscivorous raptors may be exposed to lead. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:862-871. © Published 2019 Wiley Periodicals Inc. on behalf of SETAC. This article is a US government work and, as such, is in the public domain in the United States of America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent A Slabe
- Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - James T Anderson
- Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Jeff Cooper
- Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Bracken Brown
- Division of Forestry and Natural Resources, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Patricia Ortiz
- US Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Boise, Idaho, USA
| | - John Buchweitz
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Dave McRuer
- Wildlife Center of Virginia, Waynesboro, Virginia, USA
| | - Todd Katzner
- US Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Boise, Idaho, USA
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DeSorbo CR, Burgess NM, Todd CS, Evers DC, Bodaly RA, Massey BH, Mierzykowski SE, Persico CP, Gray RB, Hanson WE, Meattey DE, Regan KJ. Mercury concentrations in bald eagles across an impacted watershed in Maine, USA. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 627:1515-1527. [PMID: 30857113 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) exposure was evaluated in bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in the lower Penobscot River watershed (PRW) in Maine to assess whether Hg discharges from a chlor-alkali plant (HoltraChem) influenced Hg concentrations in nestling tissues. Mean Hg concentrations in nestling blood and breast feathers sampled in marine and estuarine areas potentially contaminated with Hg from HoltraChem (the potential Hg impact zone) were significantly greater than those from reference sites spanning the Maine coast. To place Hg exposure in the potential Hg impact zone into a broader context, Hg exposure in bald eagle nestlings from four habitat types in the PRW was assessed. Mercury concentrations varied significantly across habitat types within the PRW, generally following the pattern: marine=estuarine<freshwater river<lake. While findings suggest that Hg inputs from HoltraChem elevated Hg concentrations in eagles in the potential Hg impact zone, those Hg concentrations were still significantly lower than those of nestlings raised in freshwater river and lake habitats in the PRW and elsewhere in Maine not contaminated by HoltraChem. Breast feathers had 31% higher statistical power to detect Hg differences among habitat types compared to nestling blood, demonstrating their higher value in biomonitoring efforts. Nestling tissue Hg concentrations in the PRW were within the range of reported Hg values for bald eagles, but were generally higher than most population comparisons within habitats. Mercury concentrations in lake-nesting bald eagles in the PRW were impacted primarily by inputs from atmospheric deposition, and Hg exposure in nestlings associated with this habitat type in the PRW often had similar or higher Hg exposure than those associated with point sources elsewhere. Mercury concentrations in bald eagle nestlings and a small sample of adults in our study commonly exceeded levels associated with adverse health effects in other bird species.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R DeSorbo
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
| | - N M Burgess
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, 6 Bruce St., Mt. Pearl, NL A1N 4T3, Canada.
| | - C S Todd
- Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, 650 State Street, Bangor, ME 04401, United States.
| | - D C Evers
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
| | - R A Bodaly
- Penobscot River Mercury Study, 115 Oystercatcher Place, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2W5, Canada
| | - B H Massey
- University of Massachusetts, Department of Environmental Conservation, 160 Holdsworth Way, Amherst, MA 01003-9285, United States
| | - S E Mierzykowski
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 17 Godfrey Drive, Suite 2, Orono, ME 04473, United States
| | - C P Persico
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
| | - R B Gray
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States
| | - W E Hanson
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
| | - D E Meattey
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
| | - K J Regan
- Biodiversity Research Institute, 276 Canco Rd, Portland, ME 04103, United States.
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Wierda MR, Leith KF, Roe AS, Grubb TG, Sikarskie JG, Best DA, Pittman HT, Fuentes L, Simon KL, Bowerman W. Using bald eagles to track spatial (1999-2008) and temporal (1987-1992, 1999-2003, and 2004-2008) trends of contaminants in Michigan's aquatic ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2016; 35:1995-2002. [PMID: 27442160 DOI: 10.1002/etc.3523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is an extensively researched tertiary predator. Studies have delineated information about its life history and the influences of various stressors on its reproduction. Due to the bald eagle's position at the top of the food web, it is susceptible to biomagnification of xenobiotics. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality implemented a program in 1999 to monitor persistent chemicals including polychlorinated biphenols (PCBs) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDE). The objectives of the present study were to evaluate spatial and temporal trends of PCBs and organochlorine pesticides in nestling bald eagles of Michigan. The authors' study found that concentrations of PCBs and DDE were higher in Great Lakes areas with Lakes Michigan and Lake Huron having the highest concentrations of DDE and Lake Erie having the highest concentrations of PCBs. Temporally (1987-1992, 1999-2003, and 2004-2008) the present study found declines in PCB and DDE concentrations with a few exceptions. Continued monitoring of Michigan bald eagle populations is suggested for a couple of reasons. First, nestling blood contaminant levels are an appropriate method to monitor ecosystem contaminant levels. Second, from 1999 to 2008 PCB and DDE concentrations for 30% and 40%, respectively, of the nestling eagles sampled were above the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) for bald eagles. Lastly, with the continued development and deployment of new chemistries a continuous long term monitoring program is an invaluable resource. Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35:1995-2002. © 2016 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Wierda
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine F Leith
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Amy S Roe
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Teryl G Grubb
- Rocky Mountain Research Station, US Forest Service, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
| | - James G Sikarskie
- Michigan State University, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - David A Best
- Environmental Contaminants Program, US Fish and Wildlife Service, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - H Tyler Pittman
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Latice Fuentes
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Kendall L Simon
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - William Bowerman
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
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Wierda MR, Leith KF, Grubb TG, Sikarskie JG, Best DA, Bowerman W. Retracted: Using bald eagles to track spatial (1999-2008) and temporal (1987-1992, 1999-2003, and 2004-2008) trends of contaminants in Michigan's aquatic ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2016; 35:2134. [PMID: 25677528 DOI: 10.1002/etc.2859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Retraction: 'Using bald eagles to track spatial (1999-2008) and temporal (1987-1992, 1999-2003, and 2004-2008) trends of contaminants in Michigan's aquatic ecosystems' by Michael R. Wierda, Katherine F. Leith, Teryl G. Grubb, James G. Sikarskie, David A. Best, and William Bowerman The above article from Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, published online on 10 February 2015 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief, G.A. Burton, Jr., SETAC and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The retraction has been agreed since the authors determined that some of the plasma samples run at Clemson University had failed quality assurance/quality control and were retested. The concentrations have since been corrected and validated. Reference Wierda MR, Leith KF, Grubb TG, Sikarskie JG, Best DA, Bowerman W. 2015. Using bald eagles to track spatial (1999-2008) and temporal (1987-1992, 1999-2003, and 2004-2008) trends of contaminants in Michigan's aquatic ecosystems. Environ ToxicolChem doi:10.1002/etc.2859.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael R Wierda
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Katherine F Leith
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Teryl G Grubb
- Rocky Mountain Research Station, US Forest Service, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
| | - James G Sikarskie
- Michigan State University, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - David A Best
- Environmental Contaminants Program, US Fish and Wildlife Service, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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Pittman HT, Bowerman WW, Grim LH, Grubb TG, Bridges WC, Wierda MR. Using nestling plasma to assess long-term spatial and temporal concentrations of organochlorine compounds in bald eagles within Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota, USA. CHEMOSPHERE 2015; 123:79-86. [PMID: 25563158 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2014.12.043] [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: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/13/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) population at Voyageurs National Park (VNP) provides an opportunity to assess long-term temporal and spatial trends of persistent environmental contaminants. Nestling bald eagle plasma samples collected from 1997 to 2010 were analyzed for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides. Trends of total PCBs, total DDTs, 4,4'-DDE, and Dieldrin were analyzed since >50% of nestling plasma samples had detectable concentrations. Total PCBs, total DDTs, and 4,4'-DDE concentrations have all decreased over time (26.09%, 24.09%, and 40.92% respectively). Concentrations of Dieldrin have increased by 50.25%. In this study, 61.1% of all nestlings sampled had detectable concentrations of Dieldrin from all time periods and all areas of VNP. Since Dieldrin is a banned pesticide in North America, the source of this increase is unknown. However, increases and fluctuations in Dieldrin concentration suggest contaminant levels in VNP may be linked to a new source or environmental process.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Tyler Pittman
- Clemson University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson, SC 29631, USA.
| | - William W Bowerman
- Clemson University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson, SC 29631, USA.
| | - Leland H Grim
- Voyageurs National Park, 3131 Highway 53 South, International Falls, MN 56649, USA.
| | - Teryl G Grubb
- US Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, 2500 South Pine Knoll Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86001, USA.
| | - William C Bridges
- Clemson University, Department of Applied Economics and Statistics, 243 Barr Hall, Clemson, SC 29687, USA.
| | - Michael R Wierda
- Clemson University, Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, 261 Lehotsky Hall, Clemson, SC 29631, USA.
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Driscoll CT, Mason RP, Chan HM, Jacob DJ, Pirrone N. Mercury as a global pollutant: sources, pathways, and effects. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2013; 47:4967-83. [PMID: 23590191 PMCID: PMC3701261 DOI: 10.1021/es305071v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1131] [Impact Index Per Article: 102.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2012] [Revised: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 04/16/2013] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) is a global pollutant that affects human and ecosystem health. We synthesize understanding of sources, atmosphere-land-ocean Hg dynamics and health effects, and consider the implications of Hg-control policies. Primary anthropogenic Hg emissions greatly exceed natural geogenic sources, resulting in increases in Hg reservoirs and subsequent secondary Hg emissions that facilitate its global distribution. The ultimate fate of emitted Hg is primarily recalcitrant soil pools and deep ocean waters and sediments. Transfers of Hg emissions to largely unavailable reservoirs occur over the time scale of centuries, and are primarily mediated through atmospheric exchanges of wet/dry deposition and evasion from vegetation, soil organic matter and ocean surfaces. A key link between inorganic Hg inputs and exposure of humans and wildlife is the net production of methylmercury, which occurs mainly in reducing zones in freshwater, terrestrial, and coastal environments, and the subsurface ocean. Elevated human exposure to methylmercury primarily results from consumption of estuarine and marine fish. Developing fetuses are most at risk from this neurotoxin but health effects of highly exposed populations and wildlife are also a concern. Integration of Hg science with national and international policy efforts is needed to target efforts and evaluate efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles T Driscoll
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York 13244, United States.
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Pittman HT, Bowerman WW, Grim LH, Grubb TG, Bridges WC. Using nestling feathers to assess spatial and temporal concentrations of mercury in bald eagles at Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota, USA. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2011; 20:1626-1635. [PMID: 21779822 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-011-0736-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) have been utilized as a biosentinel of aquatic ecosystem health in the Great Lakes Region since the early 1960s. Bald eagle populations have been monitored at Voyageurs National Park (VNP), Minnesota, since 1973. For the past 20 years, researchers have collected feathers from nestling bald eagles to assess their dietary exposure to mercury (Hg) on Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan lakes in VNP. Mercury is an environmental pollutant with both natural and anthropogenic sources, and negatively affects many species of wildlife. In a previous study, geometric mean concentrations of Hg in feathers of nestling bald eagles were greater at VNP (20 mg/kg Dry Weight (DW)) than in nestling feathers from other Great Lakes subpopulations (~7 mg/kg DW), for the period 1985-1989. Current geometric mean concentrations have declined by 77.4% since 1989 at VNP. While all samples from 1985 to 1989 had detectable concentrations of Hg, 10% of current samples had concentrations below the reportable detection limit (0.001 mg/kg DW, n = 180). The major lakes at VNP are impounded, and Hg concentrations also declined greatly after the lake level stabilization order by the International Joint Commission was implemented in 1999. Mercury concentrations in feathers of nestling bald eagles from 1989 to 2010 ranged from ND (<0.001) to 34.97 mg/kg DW. The highest single concentration in a nestling was from Namakan Lake in 2010. The five-year geometric means for Rainy, Kabetogama, and Namakan lakes for 2006-2010 were 6.08, 1.07, and 5.56 mg/kg DW (n = 28, n = 32, n = 27) respectively. Although Hg concentrations in feathers of nestlings greatly declined after the change in water level management in 1999 and are lower than 1989 concentrations, recent samples suggest a gradual increase. Continued monitoring of nestling feather concentrations will be essential to assess this increase, to determine the source of Hg, to determine if there are changes to methylation potential, and to evaluate and optimize water level management.
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Affiliation(s)
- H T Pittman
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29631, USA
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Rivera-Rodríguez LB, Rodríguez-Estrella R. Incidence of organochlorine pesticides and the health condition of nestling ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) at Laguna San Ignacio, a pristine area of Baja California Sur, Mexico. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2011; 20:29-38. [PMID: 20949316 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-010-0553-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/25/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
We identified and quantified organochlorine (OC) pesticide residues in the plasma of 28 osprey (Pandion haliaetus) nestlings from a dense population in Laguna San Ignacio, a pristine area of Baja California Sur, Mexico, during the 2001 breeding season. Sixteen OC pesticides were identified and quantified. α-, β-, δ- and γ-hexachlorocyclohexane, heptaclor, heptachlor epoxide, endosulfan I and II, endosulfan-sulfate, p,p'-DDE, p,p'-DDD, aldrin, dieldrin, endrin, endrin aldehyde, and endrin ketone were the OCs found in the plasma of nestlings, ranging from 0.002 to 6.856 pg/μl (parts per billion). No differences were found in the concentration of pesticides between genders (P > 0.05). In our work, the concentrations detected in the plasma were lower than those reported to be a threat for the species and that affect the survival and reproduction of birds. The presence of OC pesticides in the remote Laguna San Ignacio osprey population is an indication of the ubiquitous nature of these contaminants. OCs are apparently able to travel long distances from their source to the study area. A significant relationship between hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentrations and OC concentrations were found suggesting that a potential effect on the health of chicks may exist in this osprey population caused by the OC, e.g. anemia. The total proteins were positively correlated with α-BHC, endosulfan I, and p,p'-DDD. It has been suggested that OC also affects competitive interactions and population status over the long term in vertebrate species, and our results could be used as reference information for comparison with other more exposed osprey populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura B Rivera-Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste, S.C., Environmental Planning and Conservation Program, Mar Bermejo No. 195, Col. Playa Palo de Santa Rita, Apdo, Postal 128, La Paz, BCS. 23090, México.
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Venier M, Wierda M, Bowerman WW, Hites RA. Flame retardants and organochlorine pollutants in bald eagle plasma from the Great Lakes region. CHEMOSPHERE 2010; 80:1234-1240. [PMID: 20579684 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2010.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We report measurements of polybrominated diphenyl ethers and of emerging flame retardants in the plasma of nestling bald eagles sampled from early May to late June of 2005. Concentrations of total PBDEs ranged from 0.35 ng g(-1) ww to 29.3 ng g(-1) ww (average=5.7+/-1.9 ng g(-1) ww). The most abundant congeners were BDE-47, BDE-99, and BDE-100. The fully brominated congener, BDE-209, was detected in approximately one third of the samples at an average concentration of 1.2+/-0.72 ng g(-1) ww. Several emerging flame retardants, such as pentabromoethylbenzene (PBEB), hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs), and Dechlorane Plus (DP), were detected in these samples. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides were also detected at levels close to those previously published. A statistically significant relationship was found between total PBDE concentrations and total PCB and p,p'-DDE concentrations, suggesting that these compounds share a common source, which is most likely the eagle's food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Venier
- School of Public and Environmental Affairs, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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Scheuhammer AM, Basu N, Burgess NM, Elliott JE, Campbell GD, Wayland M, Champoux L, Rodrigue J. Relationships among mercury, selenium, and neurochemical parameters in common loons (Gavia immer) and bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2008; 17:93-101. [PMID: 17899374 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-007-0170-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2007] [Accepted: 08/23/2007] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Fish-eating birds can be exposed to levels of dietary methylmercury (MeHg) known or suspected to adversely affect normal behavior and reproduction, but little is known regarding Hg's subtle effects on the avian brain. In the current study, we explored relationships among Hg, Se, and neurochemical receptors and enzymes in two fish-eating birds--common loons (Gavia immer) and bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). In liver, both species demonstrated a wide range of total Hg (THg) concentrations, substantial demethylation of MeHg, and a co-accumulation of Hg and Se. In liver, there were molar excesses of Se over Hg up to about 50-60 microg/g THg, above which there was an approximate 1:1 molar ratio of Hg:Se in both species. However, in brain, bald eagles displayed a greater apparent ability to demethylate MeHg than common loons. There were molar excesses of Se over Hg in brains of bald eagles across the full range of THg concentrations, whereas common loons often had extreme molar excesses of Hg in their brains, with a higher proportion of THg remaining as MeHg compared with eagles. There were significant positive correlations between brain THg and muscarinic cholinergic receptor concentrations in both species studied; whereas significant negative correlations were observed between N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor levels and brain Hg concentration. There were no significant correlations between brain Se and neurochemical receptors or enzymes (cholinesterase and monoamine oxidase) in either species. Our findings suggest that there are significant differences between common loons and bald eagles with respect to cerebral metabolism and toxicodynamics of MeHg and Se. These interspecies differences may influence relative susceptibility to MeHg toxicity; however, neurochemical responses to Hg in both species were similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Scheuhammer
- National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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Driscoll CT, Han YJ, Chen CY, Evers DC, Lambert KF, Holsen TM, Kamman NC, Munson RK. Mercury Contamination in Forest and Freshwater Ecosystems in the Northeastern United States. Bioscience 2007. [DOI: 10.1641/b570106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 401] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Gregory Shriver W, Evers DC, Hodgman TP, MacCulloch BJ, Taylor RJ. Mercury in Sharp-Tailed Sparrows Breeding in Coastal Wetlands. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1080/15555270600695734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Evers DC, Burgess NM, Champoux L, Hoskins B, Major A, Goodale WM, Taylor RJ, Poppenga R, Daigle T. Patterns and interpretation of mercury exposure in freshwater avian communities in northeastern north America. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2005; 14:193-221. [PMID: 15931967 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-004-6269-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
A large data set of over 4,700 records of avian mercury (Hg) levels in northeastern North America was compiled and evaluated. As Hg emissions remain poorly regulated in the United States and Canada, atmospheric deposition patterns and associated ecological responses continue to elicit interest by landscape managers, conservation biologists, policy makers, and the general public. How avian Hg exposure is interpreted greatly influences decision-making practices. The geographic extent and size of this data set is valuable in understanding the factors that affect the exposure of Hg to birds. Featured are differences found among tissues, major aquatic habitats and geographic areas, between age class and gender, and among species. While Hg concentrations in egg and blood reflect short-term Hg exposure, Hg concentrations in liver and feather provide insight into long-term Hg exposure. Blood is a particularly important matrix for relating site-specific exposure to methylmercury (MeHg). The level of MeHg is generally 5-10x greater in adults compared to nestlings. Age also influences MeHg bioaccumulation, particularly for individuals where MeHg intake exceeds elimination. Gender is of interpretive concern when evaluating Hg exposure for species exhibiting sexual dimorphism and niche partitioning. Based on two indicator species, the belted kingfisher (Ceryle alcyon) and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), we found MeHg availability increased from marine, to estuarine and riverine systems, and was greatest in lake habitats. A large sample of > 1,800 blood and egg Hg levels from the common loon (Gavia immer) facilitated a suitable comparison of geographic differences. Although some clusters of highly elevated Hg exposure (i.e., blood levels > 3.0 microg/g, ww and egg levels > 1.3 microg/g, ww) were associated with hydrological and biogeochemical factors known to increase MeHg production and availability, others were not. Geographic areas without a relationship between Hg exposure and biogeochemical processes were associated with emission or waterborne point sources. Differences in Hg exposure among species are primarily correlated with trophic position and availability of MeHg. Although piscivorous species were repeatedly shown to have some of the highest MeHg levels of the 38 species analyzed, insectivorous birds in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats (such as montane areas) were also found with elevated MeHg levels. A better understanding of the factors confounding interpretation of Hg exposure provides an effective basis for choice of indicator species and tissues according to 12 selected scenarios. This and the national need for spatiotemporal monitoring of MeHg availability require careful consideration of indicator species choice. Only then will local, regional, continental, and even global monitoring efforts be effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Evers
- BioDiversity Research Institute, 19 Flaggy Meadow Rd., Gorham, ME 04038, USA.
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Rimmer CC, Mcfarland KP, Evers DC, Miller EK, Aubry Y, Busby D, Taylor RJ. Mercury concentrations in Bicknell's thrush and other insectivorous passerines in Montane forests of northeastern North America. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2005; 14:223-40. [PMID: 15931968 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-004-6270-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic input of mercury (Hg) into the environment has elevated risk to fish and wildlife, particularly in northeastern North America. Investigations into the transfer and fate of Hg have focused on inhabitants of freshwater aquatic ecosystems, as these are the habitats at greatest risk for methylmercury (MeHg) biomagnification. Deviating from such an approach, we documented MeHg availability in a terrestrial montane ecosystem using a suite of insectivorous passerines. Intensive and extensive sampling of Bicknell's thrush (Catharus bicknelli) indicated significant heterogeneity in MeHg availability across 21 mountaintops in northeastern North America. Southern parts of the breeding range tended to be at greater risk than northern parts. Mean blood Hg concentrations for Bicknell's thrush at 21 distinct breeding sites ranged from 0.08 to 0.38 ug/g (ww) and at seven Greater Antillean wintering sites ranged from 0.03 to 0.42 ug/g (ww). Overall concentrations were significantly greater in wintering than in breeding areas. Mercury exposure profiles for four passerine species on Mt. Mansfield, Vermont indicated greatest MeHg uptake in Bicknell's thrush and yellow-rumped warbler (Dendroica coronata) and lowest in blackpoll warbler (Dendroica striata) and white-throated sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis). The MeHg and total Hg ratio in blood in these four species was nearly 1:1. There was no correlation between blood and feather Hg concentrations in breeding Bicknell's thrush, in part because of apparent retention of winter Hg body burdens, within-season variation of MeHg availability, and confounding factors such as influences from age. Adult thrushes had significantly higher concentrations of feather Hg than did young-of-the-year. Although individual patterns of inter-year feather Hg concentrations were disordered, some individuals exhibited bioaccumulation of MeHg. Female blood Hg concentrations were significantly lower than males', in part because females have additional depurating mechanisms through eggs. Older male Bicknell's thrushes that breed in New England are therefore likely at greatest risk. Mechanisms for Hg methylation in montane areas without standing water are not yet fully understood. However, recent studies indicate that MeHg is present in forest tree leaves and leaf detritus; saturated soils and other moist microhabitats may also contribute to MeHg availability. Our finding of a correlation between regional litterfall Hg flux patterns and Bicknell's thrush blood Hg concentrations demonstrates on-site availability of MeHg. Further investigations into MeHg availability in montane environments are recommended to assess risk to insectivorous passerines, particularly the Bicknell's thrush.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher C Rimmer
- Vermont Institute of Natural Science, 2723 Church Hill Road, Woodstock, VT 05091, USA.
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