Mercury Contamination in Idaho Bald Eagles, <Emphasis Type="Italic">Haliaeetus leucocephalus</Emphasis> |
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Authors: | Marc J Bechard Dusty N Perkins Gregory S Kaltenecker and Steve Alsup |
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Institution: | (1) Raptor Research Center, Department of Biology, Boise State University, 1910 University Dr., Boise, ID 83725, USA |
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Abstract: | Because mercury contamination is potentially threatening to bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) populations, we collected molted feathers at nests to determine the level of contamination in bald eagles in the state of
Idaho, USA. Eagle feathers contained measurable amounts of cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), selenium (Se), lead (Pb), as well
as mercury (Hg). Cadmium, Cr, Se, and Pb levels averaged 0.17, 4.68, 2.02, and 1.29 mg/kg dry weight, respectively, and were
at or below concentrations indicated as causing reproductive failure in bald eagles. Mercury contamination was found to be
the highest averaging 18.74 mg/kg dry weight. Although a concentration of only 7.5 mg/kg dry weight Hg in bird feathers can
cause reduced productivity and even sterility, all of the eagles we sampled bred successfully and the population of bald eagles
continues to grow annually throughout the state. |
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