Organochlorine insecticide residues in wild birds in Britain

Abstract

Organochlorine insecticide residues in a wide range of wild birds and their eggs from all over Britain have been determined by gas-liquid chromatography and paper chromatography. Higher residues were found in predatory species than in omnivorous or herbivorous species. To illustrate the residue pattern in predatory species analytical data for specimens of the Heron, Kestrel and Sparrow-Hawk have been summarised. The source of the residues and their possible effects upon birds are discussed.

Causes of badger mortality in eastern counties of England

“…When a badger death was reported, full details of the circumstances were requested and the body was given a post-mortem examination where possible. The liver was removed for chemical analysis which was carried out by gas-liquid chromatography by the methods detailed by Walker, Hamilton & Harrison (1967). Not all livers were analysed for various reasons but all deaths reported are listed below in chronological order.…”

Effect of environmental pollutants on wildlife — a survey

“…38 Predators, such as the sparrow hawk (Accipiter nisus) in Britain and the buzzard (Buteo buteo) in Holland, obtained high and sometimes lethal doses of dieldrin and heptachlor epoxide originating from the seed dressings. 39 Walker 40 found that birds were more susceptible than mammals to many pesticides, and this may be due to relatively insufficient systems of detoxification. A more detailed investigation of comparative detoxification mechanisms in birds and other vertebrates for the explanation and prediction of patterns of selective toxicity was established.…”

Birds and Pest Control Chemicals

“…Nevertheless, there are sufficient anomalies in the overall pattern of residue distribution and changes in population and breeding success to indicate that perhaps other factors are operating, factors which may be partially or predominantly responsible for the changes in population status of certain raptors. Walker, Hamilton and Harrison, 1967. 2 Prestt and Jefferies, 1969.…”