Factors influencing lead, mercury and other trace element exposure in birds from metal mining areas

Birds inhabiting historical metal mining sites, such as Almadén and Sierra Madrona, continue to exhibit significant exposure to toxic metals like mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb), despite the cessation of mining activities. Feather analysis revealed that Hg contamination was prevalent in Almadén, while Pb was more pronounced in Sierra Madrona. Granivorous birds showed lower Hg levels compared to omnivorous, insectivorous, and piscivorous species, whereas Pb concentrations were higher in granivores and omnivores than in other feeding groups. The study also identified variations in 13 elements among the sites and confirmed that feather age, migratory patterns, and external deposition influence metal concentrations. These findings underscore the lingering ecological risks posed by abandoned mining sites, necessitating mitigation measures to protect local avifauna from toxic metal overexposure.

Durkalec, M., Martínez-Haro, M., Nawrocka, A., Pareja-Carrera, J., Smits, J. E. G., & Mateo, R. (2022). Factors influencing lead, mercury and other trace element exposure in birds from metal mining areas. Environmental Research, 212, 113575. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2022.113575