Diet analysis and the assessment of plastic and other indigestible anthropogenic litter in the white stork pellets

Mikula, Peter; Karg, Jerzy; Jerzak, Leszek; Walasz, Kazimierz; Siekiera, Joachim; Czyż, Stanisław; Mikicińska, Katarzyna; Pietkiewicz, Małgorzata; Sztwiertnia, Hanna; Wyka, Jakub; Tryjanowski, Piotr

doi:10.1007/s11356-023-31710-2

Cited by 4 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 52 publications

Supporting

Mentioning

Contrasting

Order By: Relevance

“…The present study implemented the method of collecting and analysing white stork pellets for the purpose of anthropogenic particle monitoring. Among species that regurgitate pellets, anthropogenic and plastic particles have been detected in white stork, kingfisher, Alcedo atthis and barn owl ( Tyto alba ) [ 31 , 36 , 37 ]. That being said, our results correspond with the study by Mikula et al [ 26 ], as we detected anthropogenic particles in all analysed pellets as well.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…The present research considered the white stork pellets by reporting qualitative and quantitative analysis of anthropogenic particles and fibres (plastics, textiles, construction and demolition waste and glass) in pellets from white storks. Although white stork pellets have been used for investigation to quantify their exposure to indigestible litter of anthropogenic sources and diet assessment [ 31 ], the novel aspect of this research is reflected in polymer analysis of the isolated anthropogenic particles. Therefore, the objectives of the research are as follows: Investigate the application of white stork pellets for anthropogenic particle monitoring.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

See 1 more Smart Citation

White Stork Pellets: Non-Invasive Solution to Monitor Anthropogenic Particle Pollution

Bjedov,

Mikuška,

Gvozdić

et al. 2024

Toxics

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

The present study applied a non-invasive method to analyse anthropogenic particles and prey items in white stork (Ciconia ciconia) pellets. Pellets (n = 20) were obtained from white stork nests during the 2020 breeding season from two sites in Croatia. In total, 7869 anthropogenic particles were isolated. The majority of particles were fragments, while previous studies on other birds often reported fibres. An ATR–FTIR polymer analysis detected glass and construction and building materials, as well as several compounds associated with plastic masses. Polymer investigation revealed the presence of dotriacontane and octacosane, which are by-products of polyethylene (PE) degradation and transformation. Additionally, the detection of vinylidene chloride (VDC) highlights the historical contribution of polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) to plastic pollution. Significant variation in particle quantity and size between the sampling sites was detected, with larger particles found at sites associated with the metal mechanical engineering industry and agriculture. Prey assessment revealed chitin remains of large insects such as Orthoptera and Coleoptera. This research confirms the potential of pellet analysis as a valuable tool for assessing the presence of anthropogenic particles in the environment. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of particle ingestion, particle sources and potential impact.

show abstract