NISTIR 7196 

Chemicals in Arctic Seabirds: 

I. Annotated Bibliography 

Stacy S. Vander Pol 

Rebecca S. Pugh 

Paul R. Becker 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Chemical Science and Technology Laboratory 

Hollings Marine Laboratory 

Charleston, SC 29412 
NISTIR 7196 

Chemicals in Arctic Seabirds: 

I. Annotated Bibliography 

Stacy S. Vander Pol 

Rebecca S. Pugh 

Paul R. Becker 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

National Institute of Standards and Technology 

Chemical Science and Technology Laboratory 

Hollings Marine Laboratory 

Charleston, SC 29412 

 

January 2005 
ii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

TABLE OF TABLES ..................................................................................................................... ii 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...........................................................................................................iii 

DISCLAIMER ...............................................................................................................................iii 

BACKGROUND ............................................................................................................................ 1 

BREAKDOWN OF REFERENCES ............................................................................................ 10 

Number of references.............................................................................................................. 10 

Publications............................................................................................................................. 11 

Authors.................................................................................................................................... 11 

Geography............................................................................................................................... 11 

Tissues..................................................................................................................................... 14 

Chemicals................................................................................................................................ 15 

Other Keywords...................................................................................................................... 17 

FUTURE WORK.......................................................................................................................... 18 

Suggestions for future research............................................................................................... 18 

Expansion of ASCDAB .......................................................................................................... 18

LITERATURE CITED ................................................................................................................. 18 

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................... 18 

TABLE OF TABLES 

TABLE 1. Arctic Seabird Species ................................................................................................. 2 

TABLE 2. Additional Bird Species Found in References ............................................................. 3 

TABLE 3. References Written in Languages Other Than English.............................................. 11 

TABLE 4. Locations of Studies................................................................................................... 12 

TABLE 5. Tissue Types Examined for Chemicals...................................................................... 14 

TABLE 6. Chemicals Reported ................................................................................................... 15 
iii 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

The authors are very grateful for the tremendous assistance provided by Bev Baker (Marine 

Resources Library) in obtaining copies of most of the references. 

DISCLAIMER 

Certain commercial equipment or instruments are identified in this paper to specify adequately the 

experimental procedures. Such identification does not imply recommendations or endorsement by the 

National Institute of Standards and Technology nor does it imply that the equipment or instruments are 

the best available for the purpose. 
1 

BACKGROUND 

Due to the amount of time seabirds spend in the air or on land, humans may associate with 

seabirds more than any other marine organism. While only 9 of the 156 existing families of 

birds are considered to be seabirds (Ainley, 1980), seabirds play a major role in the marine 

ecosystem. The purpose of the work resulting in this report was to compare literature values of 

chemical concentrations in the 39 species of Arctic seabirds that live or breed in Alaska (see 

Table 1). Although these species served as the basis for the literature search, the papers also 

contained 326 other bird species with chemical values (Table 2). All of these additional species 

are also indexed in this annotated bibliography. 

Chemical data from literature tables for the 39 Alaskan seabird species are currently being 

entered into the Arctic Seabird Chemical Database and Annotated Bibliography (ASCDAB) for a 

comprehensive review. The review and chemical data of the ASCDAB will be available in the 

future. While the literature search and review was intended to be comprehensive, it is possible 

that references were overlooked or mistakes were made in entering the data. If you have any 

references you would like to contribute to the final database or would like to correct any 

information, please contact the authors. Copies of this report and electronic copies of the 

bibliography (Pro-Cite 5.0 for Windows or text document) may be obtained by contacting: Stacy 

S. Vander Pol, NIST – Charleston, Hollings Marine Laboratory, 331 Ft. Johnson Rd., 

Charleston, SC 29412. Telephone: 843-762-8994; Fax: 843-762-8742; E-mail: 

stacy.vanderpol@nist.gov 
2 

Table 1. Arctic seabird species for which chemical data are entered in the database. The number 

of references for each species that are included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When 

multiple names are used for the same species, the name in bold was chosen for inclusion in the 

bibliography. The list was compiled from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2001) and AMAP 

(1998; identified with *). 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

Aethia cristatella crested auklet 1 

Aethia or Cyclorrhynchus psittacula parakeet auklet 2 

Aethia pusilla least auklet 1 

Aethia pygmaea whiskered auklets 0 

Brachyramphus brevirostris Kittlitz's murrelet 1 

Brachyramphus marmoratus marbled murrelet 6 

Cepphus columba pigeon guillemot 12 

Cepphus or Uria grylle black guillemot 41 

Cerorhinca monocerata rhinoceros auklet 16 

Fratercula cirrhata tufted puffin 9 

Fratercula corniculata horned puffin 5 

Fulmarus glacialis northern fulmar 50 

Larus argentatus herring gull 183 

Larus canus common or mew gull 25 

Larus glaucescens glaucous-winged gull 18 

Larus hyperboreus glaucous gull 52 

Larus philadelphia Bonaparte's gull 7 

Larus sabini Sabine's gull 2 

Oceanodroma furcata fork-tailed storm petrel 9 

Oceanodroma leucorhoa Leach's storm-petrel 23 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis* European shag* 25 

Phalacrocorax auritus double-crested cormorant 76 

Phalacrocorax pelagicus pelagic cormorant 12 

Phalacrocorax penicillatus Brandt's cormorant 8 

Phalacrocorax urile red-faced cormorant 5 

Polysticta stelleri* Steller's eider* 3 

Ptychoramphus aleuticus Cassin's auklet 6 

Rissa brevirostris red-legged kittiwake 1 

Rissa tridactyla black-legged kittiwake 68 

Somateria mollissima* common eider* 62 

Somateria spectabilis* king eider* 16 

Stercorarius longicaudus long-tailed jaeger or skua 4 

Stercorarius parasiticus Arctic skua or parasitic jaeger 9 

Stercorarius pomarinus pomarine jaeger or skua 7 

Sterna aleutica Aleutian tern 1 

Sterna paradisaea Arctic tern 22 

Synthliboramphus antiquus ancient murrelet 10 

Uria aalge common murre or guillemot 99 

Uria lomvia thick-billed murre or Brünnich's 

guillemot 52 
3 

Table 2. Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

Accipiter cooperii Cooper’s hawk 1 

Accipiter gentilis northern goshawk 1 

Accipiter nisus sparrowhawk 1 

Accipiter striatus sharp-shinned hawk 3 

Actitis macularia spotted sandpiper 4 

Aechmophorus occidentalis western grebe 5 

Agelaius phoeniceus red-winged blackbird 4 

Aix sponsa wood duck 2 

Alca torda razorbill 26 

Alcedo atthis kingfisher 1 

Alectoris graeca chukar 2 

Alle or Plautus alle little auk or dovekie 19 

Anas acuta northern pintail 9 

Anas americana American wigeon 6 

Anas clypeata shoveler or northern shoveler 5 

Anas crecca common or green-winged teal 7 

Anas discors blue-winged teal 3 

Anas penelope Eurasian or European wigeon 1 

Anas platyrhynchos mallard or pekin duck 21 

Anas poecilorhyncha spot-billed duck 1 

Anas rubripes American black duck 4 

Anas strepera gadwall 5 

Anous tenuirostris black, lesser or white-capped noddy 1 

Anser albifrons white-fronted goose 2 

Anser anser goose 1 

Anser fabalis bean goose 1 

Aphriza virgata surfbird 1 

Aquila chrysaetos golden eagle 1 

Ardea or Casmerodius alba great egret 2 

Ardea cinerea grey heron 9 

Ardea herodias great blue heron 13 

Arenaria melanocephala black turnstone 1 

Asio otus long-eared owl 1 

Asio flammeus short-eared owl 1 

Athene or Speotyto cunicularia burrowing owl 2 

Aythya affinis lesser scaup 5 

Aythya americana redhead duck 2 

Aythya collaris ring-necked duck 4 

Aythya ferina pochard 2 

Aythya fuligula tufted duck 4 

Aythya marila greater scaup 6 

Aythya valisineria canvasback duck 3 

Bartramia longicauda Bartram's or upland sandpiper 1 

Bonasa umbellus ruffed grouse 1 

Botaurus lentiginosus American bittern 1 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

4 

Branta bernicla brant 1 

Branta canadensis Canada goose 13 

Bubo bubo eagle owl 3 

Bubo virginianus great horned owl 1 

Bubulcus ibis cattle egret 2 

Bucephala albeola bufflehead 6 

Bucephala clangula common goldeneye 10 

Bucephala islandica Barrow's goldeneye 4 

Buteo buteo buzzard 1 

Buteo jamaicensis red-tailed hawk 1 

Buteo regalis Ferruginous hawk 1 

Buteo swainsoni Swainson’s hawk 1 

Calidris or Erolia alpina dunlin 2 

Calidris maritima purple sandpiper 4 

Calidris mauri western sandpiper 1 

Calidris or Erolia minutilla least sandpiper 3 

Calidris ptilocnemis rock sandpiper 2 

Calidris tenuirostris great knot 3 

Callipepla or Lophortyx californica California quail 1 

Calonectris shearwater 1 

Calonectris diomedea Cory's shearwater 4 

Catharacta skuas 1 

Catharacta hamiltoni Tristan skua 1 

Catharacta lonnbergi brown skua 2 

Catharacta skua great skua 11 

Cathartes aura turkey vulture 2 

Catoptrophorus semipalmatus willet 1 

Ceryle alcyon belted kingfisher 3 

Charadrius hiaticula ringed plover 2 

Charadrius semipalmatus semipalmated plover 1 

Charadrius vociferus killdeer 1 

Chen caerulescens snow goose 2 

Chen rossii Ross' goose 1 

Chlidonias niger black tern 3 

Circus cyaneus northern harrier or marsh hawk 1 

Clangula hyemalis long-tailed duck or oldsquaw 23 

Colinus virginianus northern bobwhite or bobwhite quail 2 

Columba livia rock dove or feral or common 

pigeon

4 

Corvus caurinus northwestern crow 3 

Corvus corax common raven 6 

Corvus cornix crow 1 

Coturnix coturnix common or Japanese quail 4 

Crocethia alba sanderling 3 

Cyanocitta stelleri Steller’s jay 3 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

5 

Cygnus cygnus whooper swan 1 

Cygnus olor mute swan 3 

Daption capense cape pigeon 2 

Dendragapus or Falcipennis

canadensis 

spruce grouse 1 

Dendragapus obscurus blue grouse 1 

Diomedea bulleri Buller's albatross 1 

Diomedea cauta shy or white-capped albatross 3 

Diomedea cauta salvini Salvin's albatross 1 

Diomedea chlororhynchos yellow-nosed albatross 3 

Diomedea chrysostoma grey-headed albatross 2 

Diomedea epomophora royal albatross 4 

Diomedea exulans wandering albatross 3 

Diomedea immutabilis Laysan albatross 5 

Diomedea melanophris black-browed albatross 3 

Diomedea nigripes black-footed albatross 9 

Egretta alba great white egret 1 

Egretta garzetta little egret 3 

Egretta thula snowy egret 2 

Egretta tricolor Louisiana heron 1 

Eremophila alpestris horned lark 1 

Eudyptes chrysocome rockhopper penguin 2 

Eudyptes chrysolophus macaroni Penguin 1 

Eudyptes pachyrhynchus Fiordland crested penguin 1 

Eudyptes sclateri erect-crested penguin 1 

Eudyptula albosignata white-flippered penguin 1 

Eudyptula minor blue penguin 2 

Falco columbarius pigeon hawk or merlin 2 

Falco mexicanus prairie falcon 1 

Falco peregrinus peregrine falcon 5 

Falco rusticolus gyrfalcon 1 

Falco sparverius American kestrel 3 

Fratercula arctica Atlantic or common puffin 34 

Fregata magnificens magnificent frigatebird 1 

Fregata minor great frigatebird 1 

Fregetta tropica black-bellied storm-petrel 1 

Fulica americana American coot 2 

Fulica atra coot 5 

Fulmarus fulmars 1 

Capella or Gallinago gallinago common snipe 2 

Gallinula chloropus common moorhen 1 

Gallinula comeri gough gallinule or moorhen 1 

Gallus domesticus chicken 2 

Gallus gallus domestic fowl 1 

Gavia loons 1 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

6 

Gavia adamsii yellow-billed loon or white-billed 

diver

3 

Gavia arctica Arctic loon or black-throated diver 6 

Gavia immer common loon 8 

Gavia pacifica Pacific loon 1 

Gavia stellata red-throated loon or diver 10 

Grus canadensis sandhill crane 1 

Grus grus crane 1 

Haematopus bachmani black oystercatcher 5 

Haematopus ostralegus oystercatcher 8 

Haliaeetus albicilla white-tailed sea eagle 9 

Haliaeetus leucocephalus bald eagle 12 

Halobaena caerulea blue petrel 1 

Heterscelus incanus wandering tattler 3 

Himantopus himantopus black-winged stilt 2 

Hirundo rustica barn swallow 1 

Histrionicus histrionicus harlequin duck 9 

Hydrobates pelagicus European storm-petrel 5 

Lagopus lagopus willow ptarmigan 3 

Lagopus mutus rock ptarmigan 3 

Larus gulls 1 

Larus atricilla laughing gull 2 

Larus audouinii Audouin's gull 3 

Larus cachinnans yellow-legged gull 1 

Larus californicus California gull 6 

Larus crassirostris black-tailed gull 3 

Larus delawarensis ring-billed gull 9 

Larus dominicanus southern black-backed gull 1 

Larus fuscus lesser black-backed gull 12 

Larus genei slender-billed gull 2 

Larus glaucoides Iceland gull or Thayer's gull 6 

Larus marinus great black-backed gull 16 

Larus melanocephalus Mediterranean Gull 1 

Larus minutus little gull 2 

Larus novaehollandiae silver or red-billed gull 3 

Larus occidentalis western gull 4 

Larus pipixcan Franklin's Gull 3 

Larus ridibundus black-headed gull 24 

Leucocarbo atriceps king shag 1 

Leucocarbo ranfurlyi Bounty Island shag 1 

Limnodromus griseus short-billed dowitcher 1 

Limosa fedoa marbled godwit 1 

Limosa haemastica hudsonian godwit 1 

Limosa lapponica bar-tailed godwit 3 

Lonchura domestica Bengalese finch 1 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

7 

Lophodytes cucullatus hooded merganser 3 

Macronectes giganteus southern giant petrel 2 

Macronectes halli northern giant-petrel 3 

Megadyptes antipodes yellow-eyed penguin 1 

Melanitta scoters 1 

Melanitta fusca velvet or white-winged scoter 10 

Melanitta nigra black or common scoter 10 

Melanitta perspicillata surf scoter 8 

Meleagris gallopavo turkey 1 

Mergus merganser common merganser or goosander 13 

Mergus serrator red-breasted merganser 14 

Milvus lineatus black-eared kite 1 

Morus or Sula serrator Australasian gannet 2 

Mycteria americana woodstork 1 

Nesocichla eremita Tristan thrush 1 

Numenius americanus long-billed curlew 1 

Numenius phaeopus whimbrel 1 

Nycticorax nycticorax black-crowned night-heron 14 

Oceanites nereis grey-backed storm-petrel 1 

Oceanites oceanicus Wilson's petrel 2 

Oceanodroma homochroa ashy petrel 2 

Loomelania or Oceanodroma melania black petrel 2 

Halocyptena or Oceanodroma 

microsoma

least petrel 2 

Oceanodroma monorhis Swinhoe's storm petrel 1 

Oxyura jamaicensis ruddy duck 4 

Pachyptila crassirostris fulmar prion 1 

Pachyptila desolata Antarctic prion 1 

Pachyptila turtur fairy prion 2 

Pachyptila vittata broad-billed prion 2 

Pagodroma tubenoses 1 

Pagodroma nivea snow petrel 1 

Pagophila eburnea ivory gull 7 

Pandion haliaetus osprey 6 

Passer montanus tree sparrow 1 

Pelecanoides georgicus South Georgian diving-petrel 1 

Pelecanoides urinatrix diving petrel 2 

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos white pelican 7 

Pelecanus occidentalis brown pelican 6 

Pelecanus onocrotalus great white pelican 2 

Perdix perdix grey partridge 2 

Phaethon lepturus white-tailed tropicbird 2 

Phaethon rubricauda red-tailed tropicbird 1 

Phalacrocorax cormorants 1 

Phalacrocorax atriceps blue-eyed or imperial shag 1 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

8 

Phalacrocorax bougainvillii Guanay cormorant 2 

Phalacrocorax capillatus Japanese cormorant 1 

Phalacrocorax carbo great, common, or black cormorant 21 

Phalacrocorax colensoi Auckland Island shag 1 

Phalacrocorax filamentosus Temminck's cormorant 1 

Phalacrocorax melanoleucos little shag or little pied cormorant 1 

Phalacrocorax nigrogularis socotra cormorant 1 

Phalacrocorax olivaceus neotropic or olivaceous cormorant 1 

Phalacrocorax pygmeus pygmy cormorant 2 

Phalaropus fulicarius red phalarope 3 

Lobipes or Phalaropus lobatus northern or red-necked phalarope 6 

Phasianus colchicus pheasant 2 

Philomachus pugnax ruff 1 

Phoebetria fusca sooty albatross 2 

Phoebetria palpebrata light-mantled sooty albatross 3 

Phoenicurus auroreus Daurian redstart 1 

Phoenicurus phoenicurus redstart 1 

Pica pica black-billed magpie 3 

Platalea leucorodia spoonbill 1 

Plegadis chihi white-faced ibis 1 

Pluvialis apricaria golden plover 1 

Pluvialis or Squatarola squatarola black-bellied plover 1 

Podiceps auritus Slavonian or horned grebe 9 

Podiceps caspicus eared grebe 2 

Podiceps cristatus great crested grebe 5 

Podiceps grisegena red-necked grebe 7 

Podiceps nigricollis black-necked grebe 5 

Procellaria aequinoctialis white-chinned petrel 4 

Procellaria cinerea grey petrel 4 

Procellaria westlandica westland petrel 1 

Pterodroma petrels 1 

Pterodroma axillaris Chatham Island petrel 1 

Lugensa or Pterodroma brevirostris Kerguelen petrel 3 

Pterodroma cahow Bermuda petrel 2 

Pterodroma cookii Cook's petrel 1 

Pterodroma incerta Atlantic petrel 3 

Pterodroma inexpectata mottled petrel 2 

Pterodroma lessonii white-headed petrel 1 

Pterodroma longirostris Stejneger's petrel 1 

Pterodroma macroptera great-winged or grey-faced petrel 1 

Pterodroma mollis soft-plumaged petrel 2 

Pterodroma nigripennis black-winged petrel 1 

Pterodroma pycrofti Pycroft's petrel 1 

Puffinus shearwaters 1 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

9 

Puffinus assimilis little shearwater 1 

Puffinus carneipes flesh-footed shearwater 1 

Puffinus creatopus pink-footed shearwater 1 

Puffinus gravis great shearwater 4 

Puffinus griseus sooty shearwater 8 

Puffinus huttoni Hutton's shearwater 1 

Puffinus lherminieri Audubon's shearwater 1 

Puffinus pacificus wedge-tailed shearwater 3 

Puffinus puffinus Manx shearwater 8 

Puffinus tenuirostris slender-billed or short-tailed 

shearwater

6 

Pygoscelis adeliae Adelie penguin 1 

Pygoscelis antarctica chinstrap penguin 1 

Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax chough 1 

Quelea quelea red-billed quelea 1 

Quiscalus mexicanus great-tailed grackle 2 

Quiscalus quiscalus common grackle 1 

Recurvirostra americana American avocet 2 

Recurvirostra avosetta avocet 3 

Rissa kittiwakes 1 

Rynchops niger black skimmer 2 

Scolopax minor American woodcock 2 

Somateria fischeri spectacled eider 6 

Spheniscus demersus jackass penguin 1 

Spheniscus magellanicus magellanic penguin 1 

Sterna terns 1 

Sterna albifrons little tern 7 

Hydroprogne or Sterna caspia Caspian tern 13 

Sterna dougallii roseate tern 5 

Sterna or Thalasseus elegans elegant tern 1 

Sterna forsteri Forster's tern 11 

Sterna fuscata sooty tern 2 

Sterna hirundo common tern 39 

Sterna nilotica gull-billed tern 3 

Sterna sandvicensis sandwich tern 7 

Sterna striata white-fronted tern 1 

Sterna vittata Antarctic tern 1 

Stictocarbo punctatus punctatus blue shag 1 

Stictocarbo punctatus steadi spotted shag 2 

Streptopelia risoria ring dove 2 

Sturnus vulgaris starling 2 

Sula bassana gannet or northern gannet 14 

Sula capensis cape gannet 1 

Sula dactylatra masked booby 1 

Sula leucogaster brown booby 5 
Table 2 (Cont.). Additional bird species found in the Arctic seabird references. The number of 

references included in the annotated bibliography are listed. When multiple names are 

used for the same species, text in bold was chosen for inclusion in the bibliography. 

Scientific Name Common Name # of References

10 

Endomychura or Synthliboramphus 

craveri

Craveri's murrelet 1 

Synthliboramphus hypoleucus Xantus's murrelet 1 

Tachybaptus ruficollis little grebe 1 

Tachycineta bicolor tree swallow 1 

Tadorna tadorna shelduck 5 

Taeniopygia guttata zebra finch 1 

Thalassoica antarctica Antarctic petrel 1 

Totanus or Tringa flavipes lesser yellowlegs 2 

Tringa melanoleuca greater yellowlegs 1 

Tringa nebularia greenshank 3 

Tringa stagnatilis marsh sandpiper 1 

Tringa totanus redshank 2 

Pedioecetes or Tympanuchus 

phasianellus

sharp-tailed grouse 2 

Vanellus vanellus lapwing 1 

Zenaida asiatica white-winged dove 1 

Zenaida macroura mourning dove 3 

Zonotrichia albicollis white-throated sparrow 1 

BREAKDOWN OF REFERENCES 

Number of references

A comprehensive search of the literature resulted in the identification of 446 references 

containing chemical data on Arctic seabird species (see Table 1). Included in these references 

were 31 review papers. Whenever possible, the original papers were consulted when entering 

the data in the database. Supplemental papers accounted for 67 of the references, with 33 

containing dosing studies and 44 dealing with oil pollution. An additional 56 references did not 

contain chemical tables for the Arctic seabird species. The search for references would also be 

greatly expanded if other languages were better represented; only 15 papers were written in 

languages other than English (Table 3). 
Table 3. The number of references written in languages other than English. 

Language # of References

11 

French 2 

German 4 

Italian 1 

Japanese 2 

Norwegian 1 

Polish 2 

Russian 3 

Publications

The references were published in 146 different publications (see Publication Index), including: 

89 journals (368 references), 14 books (19 references), 13 conference and symposium 

proceedings or abstracts (29 references), 25 agency reports, and 5 theses or dissertations. The 

journals with the most references were Archives of Environmental Contamination and 

Toxicology, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, Marine 

Pollution Bulletin, Science of the Total Environment, and Environmental Science and 

Technology. 

Authors

 A total of 751 authors contributed to the references with almost 2/3 of these authoring only one 

paper (see Author Index). Several authors have contributed 20 or more papers on chemicals in 

Arctic seabirds, including Ross J. Norstrom, David B. Peakall, Janneche Utne Skaare, Geir Wing 

Gabrielsen, and Glenn A. Fox. 

Geography

Any chemical data on the Arctic seabird species included in Table 1 were included in ASCDAB 

regardless of collection location. Most of the references examined birds from North America 

(230 references) and Europe (184 references). The majority of these studies were in Canada (89 

references), USA (82 references), Norway (57 references), and Great Britain (26 references). 

Asia had fewer references (20) with most of these for Russia (12 references). Almost certainly 

more references exist, but finding and obtaining journals or reports from other countries (and in 

other languages) is more difficult and may represent an enormous bias. Surprisingly, New 

Zealand was the focus of two studies on Arctic seabirds and Chile was the location of one. The 

bodies of water most often studied were the Great Lakes (91 references), the Baltic Sea (39 

references), and the North Sea (29 references). 
12 

Table 4. The locations of Arctic seabird species examined for chemicals broken down by 

continent with the number of references containing each location. 

Location # of References

Arctic Ocean 2 

Asia 20 

 China 1 

 China Sea 1 

 Japan 5 

 Korea 3 

 Russia 12 

 Sea of Japan 1 

 Tokyo Bay 1 

Atlantic Ocean 19 

Bering Sea 9 

Europe 184 

 Baltic Sea 39 

 Barents Sea 19 

 Belgium 12 

 Brittany 2 

 Danube Delta 1 

 Denmark 4 

 Finland 13 

 France 2 

 Germany 22 

 Great Britain 26 

 Iceland 4 

 Ireland 6 

 Italy 3 

 Netherlands 5 

 North Sea 29 

 Norway 57 

 Poland 6 

 Scotland 18 

 Shetland 4 

 Svalbard 21 

 Sweden 20 

 Switzerland 1 

Indian Ocean 3 

New Zealand 2 

North America 230 

 Bay of Fundy 12 

 Canada 89 

 Alberta 3 

 British Columbia 16 

 Labrador 1 

 Manitoba 5 
Table 4 (Cont.). The locations of Arctic seabird species examined for contaminants broken 

down by continent with the number of references containing each location. 

Location # of References

13 

 New Brunswick 14 

 Newfoundland 13 

 Northwest Territories 10 

 Nova Scotia 7 

 Nunavut 8 

 Ontario 8 

 Quebec 12 

 Saskatchewan 6 

 Yukon 4 

 Great Lakes 91 

 Greenland 19 

 Gulf of Alaska 7 

 Mexico 3 

 Baja 1 

 Northwater Polynya 4 

 USA 82 

 AK 26 

 CA 13 

 CO 1 

 CT 1 

 FL 1 

 GA 1 

 IA 1 

 ID 1 

 IL 1 

 LA 1 

 MA 3 

 ME 5 

 MI 2 

 MN 4 

 MO 1 

 MT 1 

 NC 2 

 NH 1 

 NJ 10 

 NM 2 

 NV 1 

 NY 12 

 OH 1 

 OK 1 

 OR 4 

 PA 1 

 SC 3 
Table 4 (Cont.). The locations of Arctic seabird species examined for contaminants broken 

down by continent with the number of references containing each location. 

Location # of References

14 

 SD 5 

 TX 1 

 UT 1 

 VA 3 

 VT 1 

 WA 5 

 WI 11 

Pacific Ocean 21 

South America 1 

 Chile 1 

Tissues

Chemicals were examined in 35 tissue types of Arctic seabirds (Table 5). The most common 

tissues examined were egg, liver, muscle, kidney, and feather. 

Table 5. Tissue types examined for chemicals in Arctic seabirds with number of references 

containing each tissue. 

Tissue # of References

adrenal cortex 1 

bile 1 

blood 33 

bone 12 

brain 32 

carcass 39 

egg 190 

eggshell 1 

embryo 1 

esophagus 1 

eyeball 1 

fat 42 

feather 51 

feces 5 

gallbladder 2 

gizzard 1 

gland 11 

gonad 6 

gut 2 

heart 7 
Table 5 (Cont.). Tissue types examined for contaminants in Arctic seabirds with number of 

references containing each tissue. 

Tissue # of References

15 

intestine 8 

kidney 65 

liver 174 

lung 4 

muscle 81 

ovary 2 

pancreas 3 

skin 4 

spleen 2 

stomach 1 

stomach contents 2 

stomach oil 2 

trachea 1 

viscera 1 

yolk 1 

Chemicals

The chemicals reported were grouped according to chemical class and specific chemical. The 

chemical classes included organochlorines (274 references), metals (heavy metals and trace 

elements; 159 references), organometallic compounds (23 references), and hydrocarbons (11 

references). The abbreviations for the chemicals and full names are listed in Table 6 with the 

count of references citing each chemical. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), DDTs, and 

mercury were the chemicals most reported in Arctic seabirds. 

Table 6. Chemicals reported in Arctic seabird tissues as listed in the keyword index, with 

additional description and number of references found containing the chemical. The group 

headings are in bold. 

Chemical Additional Explanation # of References

Ag silver 7 

Al aluminum 7 

aldrin 6 

As arsenic 20 

B boron 3 

Ba barium 3 

benzenes di-, tri-, tetra-, and/or pentachlorobenzene 24 

Br bromine 2 

C10H6N2Br4Cl2 a novel heterocyclic compound 2 

Ca calcium 7 
Table 6 (Cont.). Contaminants reported in Arctic seabird tissues as listed in keyword index with 

additional description and number of references found containing the contaminant. The group 

headings are in bold. 

Contaminant Additional Explanation # of References

16 

Cd cadmium 72 

chlordanes oxychlordane, cis-, trans-, -chlor, -nonachlor, heptachlor, and/or 

heptachlor epoxide 96 

Co cobolt 6 

Cr chromium 24 

Cs caesium 2 

Cu copper 43 

DDTs DDT, DDE, and/or DDT 185 

dieldrin 85 

EDCs endocrine disrupting chemicals 2 

endrin 7 

ethylenes tri- and tetrachloroethylene 1 

Fe iron 24 

HBCD hexabromocylodecane 1 

HCB hexachlorobenzene 95 

HCHs α-, β-, and/or γ-hexachlorocyclohexane 79 

HDBPs halogenated dimethyl bipyrroles 1 

Hg mercury 133 

hydrocarbons 11 

K potassium 1 

Li lithium 2 

malathion 1 

metals 159 

methylparathion 1 

Mg magnesium 8 

mirex 56 

Mn manganese 24 

Mo molybdenum 4 

Na sodium 3 

Ni nickel 11 

OCS octachlorostyrene 14 

oil 44 

organic Hg di- and methylmercury 20 

organochlorines 274 

organohalogens 1 

organometallics 

organophosphates 

23 

1 

organolead Me3Pb+

, Me2Pb+, MeEt2Pb2+, Me2Pb2+, Et3Pb+, Et2Pb+, MeEtPb2+ 1 

organotins mono-, di-, tri-, -butyl-, and/or -phenol-tin 3 

P phosphorus 5 

PAHs polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons 10 

Pb lead 52 
Table 6 (Cont.). Contaminants reported in Arctic seabird tissues as listed in keyword index with 

additional description and number of references found containing the contaminant. The group 

headings are in bold. 

Contaminant Additional Explanation # of References

17 

PBBs polybrominated biphenyls 1 

PBDEs polybrominated diphenyl ethers 10 

PCBs polychlorinated biphenyls 226 

PCDDs polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins 64 

PCDEs polychlorinated diphenyl ethers 1 

PCDFs polychlorinated dibenzofurans 43 

PCNs polychlorinated naphthalenes 3 

perfluorinated acids FOSA, PFCA, PFHS, and/or PFOA 2 

PFOS perfluorooctane sulfonate 4 

phenols 2 

phosmethylan 1 

phthalates 1 

plastic 2 

polyisobutylene 1 

pulp mill 4 

radionuclides 3 

Rb rubidium 2 

S sulfur 2 

Sb antimony 1 

Se selenium 51 

Sn tin 2 

Sr strontium 6 

Th thorium 1 

Ti titanium 4 

Tl thallium 1 

toxaphene 18 

V vanadium 5 

Zn zinc 47 

Zr zirconium 1 

Other Keywords

Most of the references did not simply measure the concentration of chemicals in Arctic seabird 

tissues, but rather examined the issue in more depth by examining the effects of the chemicals on 

the seabirds (173 references), biomagnification of the chemicals in the food web (121 

references), bioaccumulation of the chemicals in the seabirds (69 references), toxicology of the 

chemical to the seabirds (111 references), reproductive success of the population (55 references), 

and/or variations in concentration of the chemicals spatially (117 references), temporally (90 

references), among age classes of the seabirds (35 references), and between the genders (37 

references; see Keyword Index). 
18 

FUTURE WORK

Suggestions for future research

A large amount of work has been conducted on chemicals in Arctic seabirds, but the bulk of this 

work was conducted on a few species in a few regions. Several species have only a few, if any, 

references on chemicals. The number of tissues examined could also be expanded to help 

answer the questions about body burden in seabirds. Further research should be conducted on 

current-use chemicals. Asian seabird populations may also benefit from more research. 

Expansion of ASCDAB

The database should continue to be updated as new references are published. In addition, the 

database should be expanded to include other Arctic seabird species, particularly common tern 

(Sterna hirundo), Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica), black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus), and 

razorbill (Alca torda). However, this is a great undertaking requiring numerous hours to 

complete and may not be completed in the near future. 

LITERATURE CITED 

AMAP. 1998. AMAP Assessment Report: Arctic Pollution Issues. Arctic Monitoring and 

Assessment Programme (AMAP), Oslo, Norway. 

Ainley, David G. 1980. Birds as Marine Organisms: A Review. CalCOFI Rep. 21:48-53. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Region 7, Division of Migratory Bird Management. 2001. 

Migratory Birds – Seabird Species. Updated January 2001. 

http://www.r7.fws.gov/mbm/seabirds/species/ 

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Allen, Janette R. and Thompson, Anu. 1996. PCBs and organochlorine pesticides in shag 

(Phalacrocorax aristotelis) eggs from the central Irish Sea: A preliminary study. Mar. Pollut. 

Bull. 32(12):890-892. 

Rec #: 318 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; HCHs; dieldrin; endrin; aldrin; DDTs; egg; Irish 

Sea; Europe; biomagnification; effects; abnormalities; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis

ABSTRACT: In 1994, five newly laid shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) eggs were collected 

from separate nests on the Calf of Man in the Central Irish Sea. The eggs were analyzed for 

ΣPCB, HCB, α-HCH, lindane, dieldrin, endrin, aldrin and ΣDDT. The pattern of individual 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

19 

PCB congeners was also analyzed. 

Anderson, Daniel W.; Hickey, Joseph J.; Risebrough, Robert W.; Hughes, Donald F.; and 

Christensen, Robert E. 1969. Significance of chlorinated hydrocarbon residues to breeding 

pelicans and cormorants. Can. Field. Nat. 83:91-112. 

Rec #: 548 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; aldrin; endrin; chlordanes; toxaphene; HCHs; 

PCBs; eggshell thickness; effects; reproductive success; double-crested cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax auritus; white pelican; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; WI; MN; ND; USA; 

Manitoba; Saskatchewan; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: This paper reports levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons present in eggs and spring 

food of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and white pelicans (Pelecanus 

erythrorhynchos) and the effects the residues might have upon the reproductive physiology of 

these species. On the basis of research concerning fat-kinetics in certain migratory birds 

(Hanson 1962, Weise 1963, Brenner 1967, and others), there is good reason to believe that 

residues in the eggs provide a reliable index to fat-stored contamination in the female, especially 

in birds with small clutches. The precise relationships have yet to be studied in detail (Lockie 

1967, Stickel, 1968). 

Antoine, Nathalie; Jansegers, Isabelle; Holsbeek, Ludo; Joiris, Claude; and Bouquegneau, Jean 

Marie. 1992 . Heavy metal contamination of seabirds and porpoises in the North Sea. Bulletin De 

La Societe Royale Des Sciences De Liege. 61(1-2):163-176. 

Rec #: 458 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Zn; Cu; Cr; Ti; Fe; Pb; North Sea; Europe; common murre; Uria 

aalge; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; black 

scoter; Melanitta nigra; liver; muscle; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: In the North Sea, the contamination level of Cd in porpoises, Zn and Cu in 

seabirds, and Hg in both appear to be very high. The other studied metals (Cr, Ti, Fe, Pb) 

concentrations are comparable to literature. Seabirds and porpoises are located at the top of the 

food chains; however, their use as bioindicators of the contamination level of the ecosystem they 

are feeding on remains debatable. Actually many differences appear in both the contamination 

level and the storage and detoxification mechanisms from 1 species to another. 

Appelquist, Helge; Asbirk, Sten; and Drabaek, Iver. 1984. Mercury monitoring: Mercury 

stability in bird feathers. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 15(1):22-24. 

Rec #: 54 

KEYWORDS: ultraviolet radiation; metals; Hg; common murre; Uria aalge; black guillemot; 

Cepphus grylle; feather; Greenland; North America; Denmark; Baltic Sea; Europe 

ABSTRACT: The influence of ultraviolet light, heating, freezing and weathering on the mercury 

concentration in the primary feathers from Guillemot (Uria aalge) and Black Guillemot 

(Cepphus grylle) has been examined. Even within 8 months of exposure variation in mercury 

concentration due to either loss of mercury or weight loss of the feathers has been found to be 

less than 10 % relative. 

Appelquist, Helge; Drabaek, Iver; and Asbirk, Sten. 1985. Variation in mercury content of 

guillemot feathers over 150 years. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 16(6):244-248. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

20 

Rec #: 55 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; feather; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common murre; Uria 

aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Baltic Sea; Faroe Islands; North Sea; Kattegat; Europe; 

Greenland; North America; spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: The feathers of 277 black (Cepphus grylle), common (Uria aalge), and 

Brünnich's guillemot (Uria lomvia) from the Baltic, Kattegat, Faroe Islands and Greenland were 

analysed for mercury. The levels were found to be higher in the Baltic and the Kattegat 

compared to the Faroe Islands and Greenland. In common guillemots from the Baltic a decrease 

was indicated after 1969. In general the mercury levels were higher for black guillemots living 

close to the coast compared to the Uria sp. living off-shore. It is concluded that chronological 

series based on feathers from sea birds and museum collections may contribute to the elucidation 

of the long term trend of mercury pollution at sea. 

Arcos, J. M.; Ruiz, X.; Bearhop, S.; and Furness, R. W. 2002. Mercury levels in seabirds and 

their fish prey at the Ebro Delta (NW Mediterranean): The role of trawler discards as a source of 

contamination. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 232:281-290. 

Rec #: 389 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Mediterranean Sea; Europe; Audouin's gull; Larus audouinii; 

yellow-legged gull; Larus cachinnans; common tern; Sterna hirundo; shag; Phalacrocorax 

aristotelis; liver; kidney; feather; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Hg concentrations were determined in internal tissue and feathers from corpses of 

Audouin's (Larus audouinii) and yellow-legged gulls (L. cachinnans Michaellis), common terns 

(Sterna hirundo), European shags (Phalacrocorax aristotelis Desmarestii), and fish 

representative of trawler discards, collected at the Ebro Delta (northwestern Mediterranean) from 

Mar. to July (seabird breeding season), 1997-1999. Hg concentrations were significantly lower 

in epipelagic (Clupeiforms) vs. demersal fish. When representation of each species in discards 

was accounted for, the mean Hg concentration from this resource was more than double that of 

epipelagic fish (main natural prey for most area seabirds). Shag, the only species with direct 

access to benthic fish since it can dive to the seabed, had high Hg concentrations even though 

they do not feed on discards. The other seabirds exhibited Hg concentrations in accordance with 

their seasonal use of discards. Audouin's gull, which extensively exploits discards during the 

breeding season, had the highest concentrations in those tissues reflecting Hg intake during the 

breeding season (liver and first primary feathers). The common tern makes little use of discards 

and exhibited the lowest Hg concentrations. For samples reflecting Hg intake in winter (mantle 

feathers), when only the yellow-legged gull exploits discards extensively, this species exhibited 

highest concentrations. Audouin's gull and common tern had similarly low Hg concentrations in 

this period. It was concluded that consumption of discarded demersal fish strongly affected Hg 

contamination of surface-feeding seabirds. 

Atwell, Lisa; Hobson, Keith A.; and Welch, Harold E. 1998. Biomagnification and 

bioaccumulation of mercury in an Arctic marine food web: Insights from stable nitrogen isotope 

analysis. Can. J. of Fish. Aquat. Sci. 55(5):1114-1121. 

Rec #: 62 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; stable isotopes; Northwest Territories; Canada; North America; 

biomagnification; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; 

northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; little auk; Alle alle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

21 

guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; 

muscle 

ABSTRACT: Several recent studies have shown that the use of δ15N analysis to characterize 

trophic relationships can be useful for tracing biocontaminants in food webs. In this study, 

concentration of total mercury was measured in tissues from 112 individuals representing 27 

species from the arctic marine food web of Lancaster Sound, Northwest Territories. Samples 

ranged from particulate organic matter through polar bears (Ursus maritimus). Using delta15N 

values to identify trophic position, we found that total mercury in muscle tissue biomagnified in 

this food web. Polar bears were a notable exception, having a lower mean mercury concentration 

than their main prey, ringed seals (Phoca hispida). Most vertebrates showed greater variance in 

mercury concentration than invertebrates, and there was a trend in seabirds toward increased 

variability in mercury concentration with trophic position. Within species, we found no evidence 

of bioaccumulation of mercury with age in the muscle tissue of clams (Mya truncata) or ringed 

seals. Because stable nitrogen isotopes illustrated the relationship in this biome between trophic 

position and mercury level on a continuous, quantitative scale, we were able to determine that 

log10(Hg) (μg/g dry weight) = 0.2(δ15N) - 3.3. The measurement of δ15N values and mercury 

concentration allowed us to quantitatively assess mercury biomagnification within this extensive 

arctic marine food web. 

Bailey, Edgar P. and Davenport, Glenn H. 1972. Die-off of common murres on the Alaska 

Peninsula and Unimak Island. Condor. 74(2):215-219. 

Rec #: 337 

KEYWORDS: common murre; Uria aalge; AK; USA; North America; oil; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Stormy weather prevailed in the Aleutian Islands and southern part of the Alaska 

Peninsula between 19 and 23 April 1970, climaxed by an intense disturbance with winds 

reaching 84 mph at Cold Bay on 22 April. Two days later reports from an aircraft north of Cold 

Bay indicated hundreds of dead and dying sea birds on the Bering Sea beach. On 25 April, 

airborne observers from Cold Bay surveyed beaches northward up the peninsula while another 

aircraft from Kodiak Island flew southward to Cold Bay. Thousands of dead and distressed 

murres were observed along the beaches between Ilnik Lake and Moffet Point. Aerial 

reconnaissance widened, and for 5 days, counts were conducted, sampling roughly 450 miles of 

coastline. Mortality was restricted to Common Murres (Uria aalge), and dead birds were sighted 

from Egegik Bay at the north end of the Alaska Peninsula to the western end of the Unimak 

Island. Maximum concentrations of dead murres existed in the Port Moller area. Total mortality 

probably exceeded 100,000 murres. Contrary to early reports, we found no evidence of oil spills, 

or evidence that any other species of bird or mammal suffered during the period of mortality in 

murres. No hydrocarbons were detected in murres or sand and water samples by six different 

laboratories. Test for other toxins proved inconclusive, and there was no evidence of disease. 

All murre specimens were emaciated and considerably underweight. Although paradoxical that 

only Common Murres were affected, the die-off most likely resulted from starvation precipitated 

by severe weather. 

Barrett, R. T.; Skaare, J. U.; and Gabrielsen, G. W. 1996. Recent changes in levels of persistent 

organochlorines and mercury in eggs of seabirds from the Barents Sea. Environ. Pollut. 92(1):13-
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

22 

18. 

Rec #: 42 

KEYWORDS: egg; metals; Hg; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; Norway; 

Svalbard; Europe; Russia; Asia; Barents Sea; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; herring gull; Larus argentatus; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; blacklegged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; 

razorbill; Alca torda; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Eggs of ten seabird species were collected from six regions in North Norway, 

Svalbard and NW Russia in 1993, and were analyzed for organochlorines (OCs) and mercury. 

Significant declines in levels of PCBs, p,p'-DDE, HCB, beta -HCH, gamma -HCH and 

oxychlordane were documented in nearly half the data set since a similar study in 1983 in six of 

the seabird species breeding in North Norway. Only four of the 90 paired data sets increased 

significantly, and the remainder remained unchanged. There was very little change in mercury 

levels. The decline in OCs corresponds to similar declines found in Canada and the Baltic Sea, 

and to declines documented in marine fish in a Norwegian fjord. They can all be attributed to the 

reduction in use and spread of contaminants, both in Norway and internationally. No consistent 

regional differences in residue levels were found. 

Barrett, R. T.; Skaare, J. U.; Norheim, G.; Vader, W.; and Frøslie, A. 1985. Persistent 

organochlorines and mercury in eggs of Norwegian seabirds 1983. Environ. Pollut. 39(1):79-93. 

Rec #: 37 

KEYWORDS: egg; metals; Hg; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; HCHs; bioaccumulation; 

Norway; Europe; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; Atlantic puffin; 

Fratercula arctica; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Eggs of shags Phalacrocorax aristotelis, herring gulls Larus argentatus, 

kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, common guillemots Uria aalge, razorbills Alca torda and puffins 

Fratercula arctica were collected from four regions in North Norway in 1983 and were analysed 

for organochlorines and mercury. The main organochlorines found were PCB, p,p'-DDE and 

HCB, but they were at levels well below those at which breeding could be expected to be 

affected. Mercury levels were also low. There appeared to be no statistically significant 

consistent changes in levels of any of the contaminants since a similar study in 1972, nor were 

there any consistent regional differences. 

Becker, P. H.; Henning, D.; and Furness, R. W. 1994. Differences in mercury contamination and 

elimination during feather development in gull and tern broods. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 

27(2):162-167. 

Rec #: 124 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; bioaccumulation; Wadden Sea; Germany; Europe; feather 

ABSTRACT: Eggs, feathers (down, body feathers from side/shoulder and back) and some dead 

chicks (liver) from broods of three species, herring gull (Larus argentatus), black-headed gull 

(Larus ridibundus), and common tern (Sterna hirundo) from the German North Sea coast were 

collected to study intersibling differences in mercury contamination and elimination into the 

growing feathers. The mercury contamination in eggs, feathers, and liver of the terns was about 

four times that of the gulls; black-headed gulls had lowest mercury concentrations. The body 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

23 

feathers grown when the chicks became older had lower mercury levels than down in the more 

contaminated species (11 % lower in herring gulls, 49 % in common terns), indicating the 

advancing decontamination of the body by the plumage development. The elimination of 

mercury was greater in chicks with higher mercury levels. Down of the first hatched herring gull 

and common tern chick contained more mercury than down of the siblings hatched later, because 

of its higher burden derived from the first laid egg. 

Becker, Peter H. 1992. Egg mercury levels decline with the laying sequence in Charadriiformes. 

Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 48(5):762-767. 

Rec #: 118 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; egg; toxicology; Wadden Sea; Germany; Europe; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; oystercatcher; Haematopus ostralegus; elimination 

ABSTRACT: The author reports on investigations of intraclutch variation in mercury levels in 

three Charadriiform-species, Herring Gull, Common Tern and Oystercatcher (Haematopus 

ostralegus). The results confirm those previously reported in gulls and point to the importance of 

the egg in reducing the females' mercury burden. 

Becker, Peter H.; Büthe, Annegret; and Heidmann, W. 1985. Pollutants in eggs of birds breeding 

at the German North Sea coast. I. Organochlorines. J. Ornithol. 126(1):29-51. 

Rec #: 233 

KEYWORDS: egg; effects; reproductive success; biomagnification; North Sea; Germany; 

Europe; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCHs; HCB; shelduck; Tadorna tadorna; oystercatcher; 

Haematopus ostralegus; ringed plover; Charadrius hiaticula; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; sandwich tern; Sterna 

sandvicensis

ABSTRACT: Chloroganic residues (gamma -HCH, HCB, DDT and metabolites, PCBs; mg/kg 

wet weight) were investigated in the eggs of seven species differing in migration and nutrition 

(Tadorna tadorna, Haematopus ostralegus, Charadrius hiaticula, Larus argentatus, L. 

ridibundus, Sterna hirundo, S. sandvicensis). Eggs laid at the Elbe (region V) or the 

Helgolaender Bucht (region VI) were more contaminated than in other regions. In the case of 

HCB the influx into the North Sea by the Elbe and a reduction due to the currents from West to 

Northeast could be traced by the contamination of bird eggs. The residue levels as a rule 

corresponded to the trophic level of the species' food. Unexpectedly, the highest levels of gamma 

-HCH were detected in eggs of the Shelduck and the Ringed Plover. PCBs were the compounds 

found in greatest quantity. A comparison with earlier results shows a decline of DDT and 

metabolites' levels. The authors estimate the endangering of the species by the given 

concentrations of organochlorines. The residues of gamma -HCH and DDT seemed to be below 

the critical quantities affecting breeding success. PCBs, however, partly reached concentrations 

which may have negative effects on the bird populations of the North Sea coast. 

Becker, Peter H.; Furness, Robert W.; and Henning, Diana. 1993. The value of chick feathers to 

assess spatial and interspecific variation in the mercury contamination of seabirds. Environ. 

Monit. Assess. 28(3):255-262. 

Rec #: 120 

KEYWORDS: feather; egg; metals; Hg; bioaccumulation; spatial variations; Germany; North 

Sea; Europe; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; black-headed gull; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

24 

Larus ridibundus

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: In 1991 we compared eggs, down and body feathers of chicks of Common Terns, 

Herring Gulls and Black-headed Gulls in their utility to assess contamination with mercury. Like 

eggs feathers distinctly show interspecific and intersite differences in contamination. Highest 

levels were found in Common Terns, lowest in Black-headed Gulls. Chicks hatched at the Elbe 

had much higher mercury levels than those in other areas of the German North Sea coast. 

Conversion ratios between tissues have to be used with caution. 

Becker, Peter H. and Sperveslage, Hans. 1989. Organochlorines and heavy metals in herring gull 

(Larus argentatus) eggs and chicks from the same clutch. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 

42(5):721-727. 

Rec #: 515 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Pb; Cd; organochlorines; HCHs; DDTs; dieldrin; HCB; PCBs; 

chlordanes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; carcass; Germany; North Sea; Europe; 

bioaccumulation; age variations 

ABSTRACT: Most of the organochlorine and heavy metal contaminants found in herring gull 

chicks and eggs were found in higher concentrations in the chicks than the eggs. An exception 

was PCBs which was lower in the chicks compared to the eggs. PCBs were the contaminants 

found in the highest concentration 

Berge, John Arthur; Brevik, Einar M.; Bjørge, Arne; Følsvik, Norunn; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; 

and Wolkers, Hans. 2004. Organotins in marine mammals and seabirds from Norwegian 

territory. J. Envrion. Monit. 6(2):108-112. 

Rec #: 430 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; organometallics; organotins; Barents Sea; 

Svalbard; Norway; Europe; liver 

ABSTRACT: An increasing number of studies indicate that marine mammals and some seabirds 

are exposed to organotins. However, results from northern and Arctic areas are few. Here 

results from analysis of tributyltin (TBT), dibutyltin (DBT), monobutyltin (MBT), triphenyltin 

(TPhT), diphenyltin (DPhT) and monophenyltin (MPhT) in harbor porpoise (Phocoena 

phocoena), common seal (Phoca vitulina), ringed seal (Phoca hispida) and glaucous gull (Larus 

hyperboreus) from Norwegian territory are presented. Relatively high concentrations of DBT, 

TBT and MBT were observed in muscle, kidney and liver from harbor porpoises caught in 

northern Norway in 1988, just before restrictions on the use of tributyltin (TBT) (mainly on 

small boats) were introduced in several European countries. The concentrations in harbor 

porpoise muscle tissue were reduced significantly 11 years later, possibly as a result of the 

introduced restrictions. Considerably lower concentrations of butyltins were observed in the 

seals compared to porpoises. The lowest levels of organotins were found in ringed seals from 

Spitsbergen, where only traces of dibutyltin (DBT) and monobutyltin (MBT) were observed. 

Traces of DBT and MBT were also found in some individual glaucous gulls from Bear Island. 

The sum of the degradation products MBT and DBT in liver samples from all analyzed species 

were generally higher than TBT itself. Triphenyltin (TPhT) was observed in all porpoise 

samples and in livers of common seals. Also the sum of the degradation products MPhT and 

DPhT in liver samples from porpoise and common seals were higher than TPhT. No traces of 

phenyltins were found in ringed seals from Spitsbergen or in glaucous gulls from Bear Island. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

25 

The limited data available indicate low to moderate exposure to organotins in northern areas 

(Spitsbergen and Bear Island). Marine mammals are however more exposed further south along 

the Norwegian Coast. 

Bergström, Rune and Norheim, Gunnar. 1986. Persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons in eggs of 

seabirds from the coast of Telemark in south-eastern Norway. Fauna (Blindern). 39(2):53-57. 

Rec #: 176 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Europe; egg; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; lesser black-backed 

gull; Larus fuscus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; HCB; PCBs; DDTs; OCS; 

temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: The Frierfiord area in Telemark county (SE-Norway) is heavily burdened with 

pollution. Emissions from magnesium production include a release of persistent hydrocarbons. 

The most important of these are hexachlorobenzene (HCB), octachlorostyrene (OCS) and 

decachlorobiphenyl (DCB). Not only can they be detected in eggs of the Blackheaded Gull Larus 

ridibundus that breeds within the Frierfiord, but they are also found in eggs of the Lesser 

Blackbacked Gull Larus fuscus and the Herring Gull Larus argentatus breeding in outward 

coastal areas southwest of the fiord. From 1969 to the present eggs of the Herring Gull have 

shown a decrease in the levels of OCS and of HCB in particular. No reduction has been found in 

the level of DCB. All eggs have also been analysed for concentrations of DDE and PCB. 

Bignert, A.; Litzén, K.; Odsjö, T.; Olsson, M.; Persson, W.; and Reutergårdh, L. 1995. Timerelated factors influence the concentrations of sDDT, PCBs and shell parameters in eggs of 

Baltic guillemot (Uria aalge), 1861-1989. Environ. Pollut. 89:27-36. 

Rec #: 298 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; common murre; 

Uria aalge; egg; temporal trends; eggshell thickness; effects 

ABSTRACT: Three hundred and nine eggs of guillemot (Uria aalge) have been used to study 

the time trends in DDT and PCB pollution of the Baltic during the period 1969-1989. As a 

comparison, herring (Clupea harengus) from the Baltic have been used. Eggshell thickness has 

been studied in 370 eggs collected between 1861-1989. The inter-relationships between various 

morphological and chemical parameters were studied with respect to the date of egglaying (firstlaid eggs and replacement eggs) and year of collection. The following morphological and 

chemical parameters have been studied: weight, length and breadth of eggs; weight, thickness, 

thickness index and density index of eggshells; fat content and concentrations of sDDT and 

PCBs in the eggs. 

sDDT and PCBs concentrations have decreased in the Baltic since the 1970s. Eggshell thickness 

is significantly lower in recent material compared to historical material collected before 1946; it 

has increased since the 1970s but it is still lower than before 1946. 

Compared to the first-laid eggs, replacement eggs had significantly lower values for 

morphological data. The concentrations of sDDT and PCBs were significantly higher in 

replacement eggs. Fat content was similar in the two groups. The results show that date of 

egglaying has to be considered in monitoring studies and that such considerations will improve 

the interpretation of data and reduce the number of samples needed. 

Bignert, Anders; Olsson, Mats; Persson, Wawa; Jensen, Sören; Zakrisson, Susanne; Litzén, 

Kerstin; Eriksson, Ulla; Häggberg, Lisbeth; and Alsberg, Tomas. 1998. Temporal trends of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

26 

organochlorines in Northern Europe, 1967-1995. Relation to global fractionation, leakage from 

sediments and international measures. Environ. Pollut. 99(2):177-198. 

Rec #: 311 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCB; HCHs; temporal trends; Baltic Sea; 

Sweden; Europe; common murre; Uria aalge; egg; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The time trend monitoring of organochlorine pollution was carried out in Sweden 

since the late 1960s. This report presents data on concentrations of DDT, PCB, HCHs and HCB 

in biota samples collected and analysed annually. All the matrices and compounds studied show 

a significant decrease over time. The data cover severely polluted Swedish marine and fresh 

water in southern Sweden as well as locally unpolluted waters in remote northern Arctic regions 

of Sweden. A total of 13 time series representing different locations and species are presented for 

the different pollutants. The period studied covers the time when pollution was serious as well as 

the time of recovery. All monitoring activities were carried out at the same laboratories over the 

entire study period, which means that comparability over time is good in the sets of data 

presented. The various time trends show a convincing agreement with trends and annual change 

over time, although the concentrations differ between the species and locations investigated, the 

highest concentrations being in the south. Since the annual changes are normally similar 

regardless of locations and species, spatial variations in concentrations remain over time, 

although concentrations are lower today. The onset of changes in concentrations over time can 

be related to international measures or other circumstances that lowered releases into the 

environment. Similarities in the annual changes, as well as the time when changes began, are 

discussed with respect to suggested hypotheses on the fate of the investigated organochlorines. It 

was not possible to verify that the oxygenation of anoxic sediments mobilised old pollution in 

Baltic sediments. Neither was it possible to conclude that eutrophication has caused a measurable 

effect on the rate and timing of the decreases. Finally, long-range transport to Arctic regions 

seems to be due more to a one step transport than to the `Grass-hopper' effect. The 

comprehensive database used, clearly shows how important it is to have datasets big enough to 

describe between-year variation before attempting to evaluate the time trend. In addition, if 

between-year variation is not known, it is then also difficult to evaluate spatial variation on the 

basis of single year observations. 

Bishop, C. A.; Ng, P.; Norstrom, R. J.; Brooks, R. J.; and Pettit, K. E. 1996. Temporal and 

geographic variation of organochlorine residues in eggs of the common snapping turtle 

(Chelydra serpentina serpentina) (1981-1991) and comparisons to trends in the herring gull 

(Larus argentatus) in the Great Lakes basin in Ontario, Canada. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 31(4):512-524. 

Rec #: 92 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; egg; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; PCDDs; PCDFs; dieldrin; mirex; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great Lakes; Quebec; Canada; North America; temporal trends; 

spatial variations 

NOTES: NO TABLES FOR HERRING GULL; ONLY FIGURES 

ABSTRACT: Common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina serpentina) eggs from five sites 

within the Great Lakes basin, and from a reference site in north-central Ontario were collected 

during 1981-1991 and analyzed for four organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls 

(PCBs) including six non-ortho PCBs, polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), and 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). The pattern of geographic variation was consistent over 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

27 

time in eggs with Cootes Paradise/Hamilton Harbour and Lynde Creek eggs on Lake Ontario 

containing the highest concentrations and most PCDD and PCDF congeners among all sites. 

Eggs from Cranberry Marsh on Lake Ontario contained organochlorine concentrations similar to 

those from Big Creek Marsh and Rondeau Provincial Park on Lake Erie except PCDDs and 

PCDFs which occurred at higher concentrations and more congeners were detectable in 

Cranberry Marsh eggs. Concentrations of most contaminants in turtle eggs from Algonquin Park, 

the reference site, have significantly decreased in the past decade. Dieldrin concentrations, 

however, increased in Algonquin Park eggs from 1981 to 1989. Significant decreases in 

concentrations of hexachlorobenzene, mirex and PCBs occurred between turtle eggs collected in 

1981/84 and 1989 at Big Creek Marsh and Rondeau Provincial Park, whereas there was no 

significant change in concentrations of p,p'-DDE and dieldrin. In Lake Ontario eggs, 

concentrations of PCBs, p,p'-DDE and dieldrin increased significantly between 1984 and 1991. 

Differences were also found in patterns of temporal variation in contamination between herring 

gulls (Larus argentatus) and snapping turtles which were attributed to differences in diet. 

Elevated and continued contamination in turtle eggs from Lake Ontario is probably due to a 

combination of local sources of chemicals and consumption of large migratory fish that spawn in 

wetlands inhabited by these turtles. 

Bishop, C. A; Weseloh, D. V; Burgess, N. M.; Struger, J.; Norstrom R. J.; Turle, R.; and Logan, 

K. A. 1992. An atlas of contaminants in eggs of fish-eating colonial birds of the Great Lakes 

(1970-1988). Technical Report Series No. 153. Burlington, Ontario, Canada: Canadian Wildlife 

Service Ontario Region. 135 pp. 

Rec #: 366 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; common tern; Sterna hirundo; black-crowned night-heron; 

Nycticorax nycticorax; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; 

organochlorines; chlordanes; benzenes; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; egg; Great Lakes; North 

America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: During 1970-1988, Canadian Wildlife Service (Ontario) collected eggs from 7 

species fish-eating colonial birds from 67 colonies throughout the Great Lakes to measure the 

levels of 39 contaminants and the lipid concentrations present. There are 4491 data points 

presented in the atlas. Data were generated as part of a monitoring program started in 1970 to 

understand the temporal and spatial trends in environmental contaminant levels in biota of the 

Great Lakes. The species sampled include: Herring Gull (Larus argentatus), Double-crested 

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia), Common Tern (Sterna 

hirundo), Black-crowned Night-Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax), Forster’s Tern (Sterna forsteri), 

and Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis). The purpose was to measure the levels of the 

following compounds: organochlorine pesticides, chlorinated benzenes, polychlorinated 

biphenyls, dioxins and furans, and moisture. Volume I contains contaminant data summarized 

by location. Volume II contains contaminant data summarized by compound. 

Bjerk, John Erik and Holt, Gunnar. 1971. Residues of DDE and PCB in eggs from herring gull 

(Larus argentatus) and common gull (Larus canus) in Norway. Acta Vet. Scand. 12(3):429-441. 

Rec #: 377 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus; organochlorines; 

DDTs; PCBs; Norway; Europe; egg; eggshell thickness; spatial variations; effects 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

28 

ABSTRACT: A total of 294 eggs from herring gull (Larus argentatus) were collected at eight 

localities in Norway in 1969. Nine eggs from common gull (Larus canus) were also collected 

from one of the sites. The eggs were analyzed for DDE and PCBs and were found to range from 

0.2 to 5.4 ppm in DDE and 0.2 and 3.8 ppm in PCB 10 with significant differences between the 

localities. Eggshell thickness had a higher correlation with PCB than DDE, but neither was 

significant. 

Blight, Louise K. and Burger, Alan E. 1997. Occurrence of plastic particles in seabirds from the 

eastern North Pacific. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 34(5):323-325. 

Rec #: 174 

KEYWORDS: plastic; Pacific Ocean; Canada; British Columbia; USA; WA; OR; North 

America; black-footed albatross; Diomedea nigripes; fork-tailed storm petrel; Oceanodroma 

furcata; Leach's storm petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; 

Stejneger's petrel; Pterodroma longirostris; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; tufted puffin; 

Fratercula cirrhata; horned puffin; Fratercula corniculata; common murre; Uria aalge; Xantus' 

murrelet; Synthliboramphus hypoleucus; rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: We found plastic particles in the stomachs of 8 of the 11 species of seabirds 

caught as bycatch in the pelagic waters of the eastern North Pacific (41-50 degree N, 131-134 

degree W). Plastic was found in all surface-feeding birds (two storm-petrel, one albatross, one 

petrel and one fulmar species) and in 75 % of shearwaters. Densities in some storm-petrels, 

shearwaters and the petrel were possibly sufficient to impede digestion, but were negligible in 

other birds. Plastic was also found in two diving species (puffins) but absent in three others 

(murre, auklet and murrelet). Of 353 anthropogenic items examined, 29 % were industrial pellets 

and 71 % were fragments of discarded products ("user" plastic), with user plastic making up 60 

% of total mass. Our study is evidence of widespread plastic pollution affecting birds in a 

previously unsampled sector of the North Pacific 

Bogan, J. A. and Bourne, W. R. P. 1972. Organochlorine levels in Atlantic seabirds. Nature. 

240(5380):358. 

Rec #: 11 

KEYWORDS: Atlantic Ocean; Scotland; Norway; Barents Sea; Europe; organochlorines; 

PCBs; DDTs; muscle; liver; fat; stomach oil; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; storm-petrel; Hydrobates pelagicus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; common murre; Uria aalge

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Normal seabirds from a representative range of species occurring between 

Scotland and the Artic contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and smaller amounts of p,p'-

DDE (I) with the PCB/DDE ratio usually being 2-10 in all species except the kittiwake (Rissa 

tridactyla), where the ratio was always higher, but at least 60. The total organochlorine content 

in muscle and liver was generally low (0.1-1.0 ppm) in the auks and shearwaters examined, and 

was greater in more pelagic species, with levels >10 ppm being found in gulls and skuas feeding 

largely around trawlers and seabird breeding stations. The organochlorine content apparently 

was not inherited, and the PCB content of the parent was not passed on to the chicks through the 

feeding of stomach oil. Normal birds which appeared to have been feeding largely on other 

seabirds' eggs had an average content of 24 ppm PCB and 17 ppm DDE in the liver and one 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

29 

contained 535 ppm PCB and 67 ppm DDE in the fat, but a bird containing 311 ppm PCB and 67 

ppm DDE in the liver showed weakness and failure of coordination of the limbs, as did 

experimentally poisoned finches which had a mean liver PCB content of 345 ppm. 

Bondarev, A. Ya.; Denisova, A. V.; Kishchinskii, A. A.; and Ryazhenov, N. I. 1976. Chlorinated 

organic pesticides in tissues of some wild animals. Nauchnye Osnovy Okhrany Prirody. 7:110-

117. 

Rec #: 420 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; HCHs; fat; Steller's eider; Polysticta stelleri; spectacled 

eider; Somateria fischeri; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; bean goose; Anser fabalis; ruff; 

Philomachus pugnax; Russia; Asia 

ABSTRACT: The fat of the birds Polysticta stelleri, Somateria fischeri, Clangula hyemalis, 

Anser fabalis, and Philomachus pugnax from the lower reaches of the Indigirka River contained 

4 (1-16) μg HCH (I) [58-89-9] and 2 (1-120) μg total DDT (II) [50-29-3]/kg. The content of I 

in wolves from Altai ranged from 0 to 90 μg/kg brain and 140 μg/kg fat in pups. The maximum 

levels of II were 14 μg/kg in the brain of a pup and 40 μg/kg in the fat of an adult male. The 

presence of I and II in the polar sea birds C. hyemalis and P. stelleri, which never come to areas 

treated with pesticides, indicates global spread of pesticides. 

Borgå, K.; Gabrielsen, G. W.; and Skaare, J. U. 2001. Biomagnification of organochlorines along 

a Barents Sea food chain. Environ. Pollut. 113:187-198. 

Rec #: 344 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; organochlorines; HCHs; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; 

mirex; liver; Uria lomvia; thick-billed murre; Cepphus grylle; black guillemot; Rissa tridactyla; 

black-legged kittiwake; Larus hyperboreus; glaucous gull; Barents Sea; Europe 

ABSTRACT: To trace the biomagnification of organochlorines in marine food chains near 

Svalbard, which may lead to the high organochlorine concentrations in top predators from the 

area, we compared concentrations and patterns of organochlorines in selected taxa. The pelagic 

crustaceans, Calanus spp. (copepods), Thysanoessa spp. (euphausiids), Parathemisto libellula

(amphipod), and the fish species, Boreogadus saida (polar cod) and Gadus morhua (cod) were 

selected to represent the lower trophic levels in the food web. Four seabird species were chosen 

at the higher trophic levels, Uria lomvia (Brünnich's guillemot), Cepphus grylle (black 

guillemot), Rissa tridactyla (black-legged kittiwake) and Larus hyperboreus (glaucous gull). We 

found low concentrations of the organochlorines Σhexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs), 

hexachlorobenzene (HCB), ΣChlordanes, ΣDDTs, and Σpolychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in 

crustaceans (11-50 ng g-1 lipid weight) and fish (15-222 ng g-1 lipid weight). In seabirds, the 

organochlorine concentrations biomagnified one to three orders of magnitude dependent on 

species and compound class. Glaucous gulls had the highest concentrations of all 

organochlorines. The organochlorine levels in all taxa except glaucous gull were comparable to 

those recorded in similar species in the Canadian Arctic. The organochlorine pattern changed 

from crustaceans and fish to seabirds. Moving up the food chain, the relative contribution of 

ΣHCHs, HCB and ΣChlordanes decreased, and the relative contribution of Σ DDTs, ΣPCBs, 

persistent compounds and metabolites increased. The results reflected trophic transfer of 

organochlorines along the food chain as well as different elimination potentials due to direct 

diffusion in crustaceans and fish, and higher contaminant metabolic activity in seabirds. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

30 

Borgå, Katrine; Gabrielsen, Geir W.; and Skaare, Janneche U. 2003. Comparison of 

organochlorine concentrations and patterns between free-ranging zooplankton and zooplankton 

sampled from seabirds' stomachs. Chemosphere. 53(6):685-689. 

Rec #: 474 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; stomach contents; 

thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Barents Sea; Europe; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: To study the use of predators' stomach contents to measure the organochlorine 

load in free-ranging prey, the 2 zooplankton species Thysanoessa inermis (euphausiids) and 

Themisto libellula (amphipods) were collected simultaneously from the water column and from 

the seabird Brünnich's guillemot (Uria lomvia)'s stomach (from crop to proventriculus). The 

organochlorine compounds' concentrations and relative proportion of PCB-153 generally did not 

differ between the 2 sampling methods (least square mean of .sum. organochlorines=5.9 and 6.8 

ng/g wet weight for water column and stomach-sampled prey, respectively), indicating that the 

organochlorines in stomach-sampled prey were not yet affected by mechanical, chemical and 

bacterial degradation Although the sample size is restricted, similar organochlorine 

concentrations and pattern in free-ranging and stomach-sampled prey may suggest that 

Brünnich's guillemots feed randomly on the zooplankton population rather than at more (or less) 

contaminated individuals. Alternatively or in addition, the similar concentrations and pattern 

suggest that the contaminant levels in Barents Sea zooplankton do not influence their behavior to 

change the vulnerability to predation. The organochlorine concentrations and pattern in 

zooplankton collected from seabirds' stomach correspond with levels in free-ranging prey. 

Borgå, Katrine; Gabrielsen, Geir WIng; Hop, Haakon; and Skaare, Janneche Utne. 1998. 

Organochlorines and trophic positions in a marine pelagic food chain leading to seabirds in the 

Norwegian Arctic. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:431-434. 

Rec #: 316 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; stable isotopes; 

biomagnification; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; liver; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 

glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The bioaccumulation of organochlorines was studied in the food chain leading to 

glaucous gull. N isotope ratios were used to detect the trophic position of the organisms. The 

δ15-N-values increased from 9.38 % in copepods over euphausiids, amphipods, Spider crab, 

polar cod, Atlantic cod, black-legged kittiwake to 15.8 % in seabirds (glaucous gull). In the 

lower end of the food chain (copepods to fish) the concentrations of the organochlorines (HCHs, 

HCB, chlordanes, DDTs, and PCBs) were low (10.1-85.8 ng/g lipid weight) and did not increase 

with the organisms' trophic position. In the upper end of the food chain (seabirds) the 

concentrations of organochlorines were 1-3 orders of magnitude higher than in crustaceans and 

fish, depending on the organochlorine group. The overall increase in organochlorine 

concentration with the organisms trophic position in the marine food chain was 

HCHs≤HCB≤chlordanes≤DDTs≤PCBs. This is consistent with the physicochemical properties 

of the organisms. 

Borlakoglu, J. T. and Haegele, K. D. 1991. Comparative aspects on the bioaccumulation, 

metabolism and toxicity with PCBs. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. C. 100C(3):327-328. 

Rec #: 205 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

31 

KEYWORDS: bioaccumulation; organochlorines; PCBs; metabolism; Great Lakes; North 

America; Baltic Sea; Europe; Tokyo Bay; Japan; Asia 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The commercial advantage of PCBs was based on their properties of high 

chemical stability, low aqueous solubility, non-flammability, and excellent electrical insulation. 

This versatility led to their widespread use as heat transfer fluids in transformers and capacitors, 

flame retardant, lubricating and hydraulic oils, additives in the manufacture of plastics, vehicles 

for ink in copying paper, and even as immersion oils for microscopes. Serious environmental 

contamination with PCBs has been documented for industrialized areas such as the Great Lakes, 

the Baltic Sea and Tokyo Bay. However, their accumulation throughout the ecosystem is shown 

by the presence of PCBs in samples of air, snow, ice, fish, birds and mammals obtained from the 

polar regions, in the surface and sub-surface water and atmosphere of oceans, and in a wide 

range of plankton, fish, and marine and terrestrial mammals including humans. The 

concentration of PCBs in lower trophic levels of aquatic organisms such as plankton, crustacean 

and fish depends primarily on the PCB concentration in the sediments and particulate matter in 

the ambient water and is to a lesser degree influenced by the ingestion of food contaminated wit 

Borlakoglu, J. T.; Wilkins, J. P. G.; and Walker, C. H. 1988. Polychlorinated biphenyls in fisheating sea birds--Molecular features and metabolic interpretations. Mar. Environ. Res. 24:15-19. 

Rec #: 303 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; bioaccumulation; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; 

common murre; Uria aalge; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; razorbill; Alca torda; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; fat 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are an important group of environmental 

pollutants, there being a total of 209 theoretical congeners. Residue analysis of the adipose tissue 

of five species of fish-eating sea birds from British and Irish coastal waters revealed the presence 

of up to 60 different congeners. Comparison of the molecular structure for the persistent PCB 

congeners revealed the lack of meta-para unsubstituted adjacent carbon atoms. It has been shown 

that meta-para unsubstituted adjacent carbon atoms facilitate the metabolism of PCBs and it is 

hypothesised that the formation of hydroxy derivatives may depend upon such a requirement. 

Borlakoglu, J. T.; Wilkins, J. P. G.; Walker, C. H.; and Dils, R. R. 1990. Polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCBs) in fish-eating sea birds - 2. Molecular features of PCB isomers and congeners 

in adipose tissue of male and female puffins (Fratercula arctica), guillemots (Uria aalge), shags 

(Phalacrocorax aristotelis) and cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) of British and Irish coastal 

waters. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. C. 97C(1):161-171. 

Rec #: 261 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; Great Britain; Ireland; Europe; fat; razorbill; 

Alca torda; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; common murre; Uria aalge; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: The concentration of individual PCBs was measured in adipose tissue of male and 

female puffins (Fratercula arctica), shags (Phalacrocorax aristotelis), guillemots (Uria aalge) 

and cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo) obtained from the Isle of May and the Saltees islands. 

The concentrations of total PCBs showed positive correlations with that of p,p'-DDE in the 

tissues. Enrichment factors were calculated by comparing the concentration of an individual PCB 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

32 

in the tissue with its abundance in commercial mixtures of PCBs. Of the 47 individual PCBs 

identified five prominent PCBs had enrichment factors considerably > 1 and accounted for 

approximately 35 % of the total concentration of PCBs present. 

Borlakoglu, J. T.; Wilkins, J. P. G.; Walker, C. H.; and Dils, R. R. 1990. Polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCBs) in fish-eating sea birds -- 3. Molecular features and metabolic interpretations 

of PCB isomers and congeners in adipose tissues. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. C. 97C(1):173-177. 

Rec #: 260 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; organochlorines; PCBs; fat; Great Britain; Europe; razorbill; 

Alca torda; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; common murre; Uria aalge; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; metabolism 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Enrichment factors have been calculated for several persistent PCB congeners in 

the adipose tissue for five species of fish-eating sea birds (female razorbills, puffins, guillemots, 

shags and cormorants) (Alca torda, Fratercula, Uria aalge, Phalacrocorax spp.). There were no 

significant differences between the five species in the enrichment factor of individual persistent 

PCBs compared with congener 153, indicating similar levels of diminished metabolism of this 

group of congeners. Of the 47 individual PCBs identified, ten congeners had enrichment factors 

of > 1 in all of the species and these accounted for up to 70 % of the concentration of total PCBs 

present. 

Bouquegneau, J. M.; Das, K.; Debacker, V.; Gobert, S.; and Nellissen, J. P. 1996. Toxicological 

investigations on the heavy metals contamination of seabirds and marine mammals beached 

along the Belgian coast. Bulletin De La Societe Royale Des Sciences De Liege. 65(1):31-34. 

Rec #: 88 

KEYWORDS: review; metals; Cu; Zn; Cd; liver; Hg; metallothionein; Belgium; Norway; 

Scotland; Europe; toxicology; common murre; Uria aalge; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: A short review of contaminants in stranded seabirds and marine mammals and the 

toxicity of these contaminants. 

Bouquegneau, J. M.; Debacker, V.; Gobert, S.; and Havelange, S. 1996. Role of metallothioneins 

in metal regulation by the guillemot Uria aalge. Comp. Biochem. Physiol., C. 113C(2):135-139. 

Rec #: 225 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cu; Cd; Zn; liver; kidney; metallothionein; North Sea; Belgium; Europe; 

effects; common murre; Uria aalge

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Guillemots (Uria aalge), like other seabird species living in the North Sea, appear 

to be heavily contaminated by copper. Metallothioneins are present in both liver and kidney but, 

at least in the specimens stranded along the Belgian coast, fail to maintain constant the copper, 

zinc and cadmium load of the high molecular weight soluble proteins of both organs, stressing 

the potential toxic role of these metals, mainly copper. 

Bourne, W. R. P. 1976. Seabirds and pollution. In: Johnston, R. (Ed.) Marine Pollution. London: 

Academic Press. 403-502. 

Rec #: 540 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

33 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; DDTs; dieldrin; metals; 

Fe; Co; As; Hg; Ag; Pb; Ni; Cr; Zn; Ca; Cu; Sn; plastic; gland; bone; egg; carcass; feather; liver; 

fat; brain; muscle; effects; reproductive success; abnormalities; common murre; Uria aalge; 

razorbill; Alca torda; white-tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; gannet; Sula bassana; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; great black-backed gull; Larus 

marinus; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; common eider; Somateria 

mollissima; horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; western grebe; Aechmophorus occidentalis; cape 

gannet; Sula capensis; spotted shag; Stictocarbo punctatus steadi; white-tailed tropicbird; 

Phaethon lepturus; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; shelduck; Tadorna tadorna; greater 

scaup; Aythya marila; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; brown pelican; Pelecanus occidentalis; 

double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; ashy petrel; Oceanodroma homochroa; 

osprey; Pandion haliaetus; Bermuda petrel; Pterodroma cahow; peregrine falcon; Falco 

peregrinus; sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis; spoonbill; Platalea leucorodia; cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax carbo; snow petrel; Pagodroma nivea; Wilson's petrel; Oceanites oceanicus; 

Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; thick-billed murre; Uria 

lomvia; turkey vulture; Cathartes aura; common raven; Corvus corax; common merganser; 

Mergus merganser; common loon; Gavia immer; common tern; Sterna hirundo; sooty tern; 

Sterna fuscata; Laysan albatross; Diomedea immutabilis; black-footed albatross; Diomedea 

nigripes; jackass penguin; Spheniscus demersus; magellanic penguin; Spheniscus magellanicus; 

white-flippered penguin; Eudyptula albosignata; blue penguin; Eudyptula minor; rockhopper 

penguin; Eudyptes chrysocome; Adelie penguin; Pygoscelis adeliae; chinstrap penguin; 

Pygoscelis antarctica; black-browed albatross; Diomedea melanophris; wandering albatross; 

Diomedea exulans; southern giant petrel; Macronectes giganteus; cape pigeon; Daption capense; 

broad-billed prion; Pachyptila vittata; fairy prion; Pachyptila turtur; mottled petrel; Pterodroma 

inexpectata; Atlantic petrel; Pterodroma incerta; Kerguelen petrel; Pterodroma brevirostris; 

grey petrel; Procellaria cinerea; great shearwater; Puffinus gravis; Cory's shearwater; 

Calonectris diomedea; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; short-tailed shearwater; Puffinus 

tenuirostris; Audubon's shearwater; Puffinus lherminieri; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma 

leucorhoa; storm-petrel; Hydrobates pelagicus; fork-tailed storm petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; 

least petrel; Oceanodroma microsoma; black petrel; Oceanodroma melania; little auk; Alle alle; 

brown booby; Sula leucogaster; Australasian gannet; Morus serrator; masked booby; Sula 

dactylatra; white pelican; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

penicillatus; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; socotra cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

nigrogularis; Aukland Island shag; Phalacrocorax colensoi; blue-eyed shag; Phalacrocorax 

atriceps; magnificent frigatebird; Fregata magnificens; great skua; Catharacta skua; parasitic 

jaeger; Stercorarius parasiticus; great crested grebe; Podiceps cristatus; red-breasted merganser; 

Mergus serrator; red phalarope; Phalaropus fulicarius; purple sandpiper; Calidris maritima; 

yellow-billed loon; Gavia adamsii; Arctic loon; Gavia arctica; common goldeneye; Bucephala 

clangula; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; red-throated loon; 

Gavia stellata; sooty albatross; Phoebetria fusca; diving petrel; Pelecanoides urinatrix; little 

gull; Larus minutus; little tern; Sterna albifrons; Antarctic tern; Sterna vittata; oystercatcher; 

Haematopus ostralegus; Bartram's sandpiper; Bartramia longicauda; coot; Fulica atra; gough 

gallinule; Gallinula comeri; Tristan thrush; Nesocichla eremita; Irish Sea; North Sea; Baltic Sea; 

Great Britain; Scotland; Shetland; Netherlands; Denmark; Ireland; Poland; Belgium; France; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

34 

Kattegat; Sweden; Europe; Ontario; New Brunswick; British Columbia; Canada; CA; NC; NJ; 

MA; USA; North America; Japan; New Zealand; Asia; Australia; Atlantic Ocean; Pacific Ocean; 

seasonal variations; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: A review examining the effects of marine pollution on seabirds. Four types of 

pollution (oil, toxic chemical, artefacts, and micro-organisms and parasites) are examined in 

different oceans and groups of birds. An appendix estimates the concentrations of chlorinated 

hydrocarbons in some 250 birds from different parts of the world. 

Bourne, W. R. P. and Bogan, J. A. 1972. Polychlorinated biphenyls in North Atlantic seabirds. 

Mar. Pollut. Bull. 3(11):171-175. 

Rec #: 423 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; liver; muscle; fat; stomach oil; northern fulmar; 

Fulmarus glacialis; great shearwater; Puffinus gravis; Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; 

storm-petrel; Hydrobates pelagicus; gannet; Sula bassana; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; great 

skua; Catharacta skua; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius parasiticus; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; 

Uria lomvia; razorbill; Alca torda; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; little auk; Alle alle; 

Atlantic Ocean; Norway; Scotland; Great Britain; Europe; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated biphenyls are usually thought to be discharged in industrial 

effluents and therefore to be commonest in inshore waters close to centres of industry. It now 

appears that high concentrations are found in pelagic-feeding seabirds from the North Atlantic, 

far from possible industrial sources of these compounds. 

Braestrup, Liselotte; Clausen, Jørgen; and Berg, Ole. 1974. DDE, PCB, and aldrin levels in arctic 

birds of Greenland. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 11:326-332. 

Rec #: 523 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; aldrin; HCHs; Greenland; North America; 

biomagnification; fat; Somateria spectabilis; king eider; Somateria mollissima; common eider; 

Histrionicus histrionicus; harlequin duck; Clangula hyemalis; long-tailed duck; Calidris 

maritima; purple sandpiper; Uria lomvia; thick-billed murre; Phalacrocorax carbo; cormorant; 

Lagopus mutus; rock ptarmigan; Corvus corax; common raven 

ABSTRACT: The use of chlorinated pesticides for more than 30 years and of polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCB) for more than 40 years has caused a world-wide accumulation of these 

components in different ecosystems (1,7,9,10,12,13,18,19,20). Since no studies have been made 

on theme components in Arctic ecosystems of Greenland, the present study was designed to 

elucidate this, especially concerning the concentration of polychlorinated hydrocarbons (PCHC) 

in birds. This is of interest since these often migrate or eat migrating fish, thus being affected by 

areas in which PCHC are used. 

Braune, B. M.; Donaldson, G. M.; and Hobson, K. A. 2002. Contaminant residues in seabird 

eggs from the Canadian Arctic. II. Spatial trends and evidence from stable isotopes for 

intercolony differences. Environ. Pollut. 117:133-145. 

Rec #: 340 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; benzenes; HCHs; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

35 

metals; Hg; Se; stable isotopes; egg; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; black-legged kittiwake; 

Rissa tridactyla; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; Nunavut; 

Canada; North America; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Eggs of glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus), black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa 

tridactyla), thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia) and black guillemots (Cepphus grylle) were 

collected from several sites throughout the Canadian Arctic. Samples were analyzed for 

organochlorines as well as mercury and selenium. Glaucous gulls breeding at sites in the High 

Arctic showed higher levels of organochlorine contamination than those in the western Low 

Arctic. This was likely due to dietary differences among colonies as suggested by stable isotope 

data, although different overwintering areas may also play a role. Levels of ΣPCB, ΣDDT, 

ΣCHLOR, ΣCBz and dieldrin were significantly lower in thick-billed murres from Prince 

Leopold Island in the High Arctic compared with colonies in the eastern Low Arctic. This 

difference was likely due to the combined effects of different atmospheric deposition patterns in 

the High and Low Arctic and different overwintering areas since murres from Prince Leopold 

Island may winter farther north than murres from the other colonies sampled. Eggs from 

colonies at higher latitudes generally contained higher concentrations of mercury. The trophic 

and dietary differences/similarities suggested by stable-nitrogen and carbon isotope data in this 

study were useful in explaining the spatial patterns of contaminant concentrations observed 

among colonies of seabirds such as the glaucous gull and the black-legged kittiwake where 

variation in latitudinal atmospheric deposition patterns and different overwintering grounds did 

not appear to be confounding factors. 

Braune, B. M.; Donaldson, G. M.; and Hobson, K. A. 2001. Contaminant residues in seabird 

eggs from the Canadian Arctic. Part I. Temporal trends 1975-1998. Environ. Pollut. 114:39-54. 

Rec #: 305 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; benzenes; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; HCHs; 

metals; Hg; Se; stable isotopes; biomagnification; temporal trends; egg; thick-billed murre; Uria 

lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Nunavut; 

Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of total mercury, selenium and a suite of organochlorine 

compounds were measured in eggs of thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia), northern fulmars 

(Fulmarus glacialis) and black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) collected on Prince Leopold 

Island in Lancaster Sound, Nunavut, Canada, between 1975 and 1998. Mercury levels in thickbilled murre and northern fulmar eggs increased significantly during this period while selenium 

concentrations decreased significantly in northern fulmar eggs. Mercury and selenium 

concentrations in black-legged kittiwake eggs exhibited no significant temporal trends. 

Concentrations of ΣPCB, ΣDDT and total chlorobenzenes decreased over time for all three 

species and there was a shift in the PCB congener pattern as the hexachlorobiphenyl fraction of 

ΣPCB increased and the lower chlorinated biphenyl fraction decreased. Total chlordane, dieldrin 

and mirex concentrations decreased in kittiwake eggs while no significant trends were observed 

for the other two species. Increases in ΣHCH levels were detected in thick-billed murre eggs but 

not in northern fulmar and black-legged kittiwake eggs. Levels of the β-HCH isomer, however, 

increased significantly in murres and fulmars. Stable-nitrogen isotope analyses (δ15N) indicate 

that the temporal trends observed for contaminant concentrations in eggs were not the result of 

shifts in trophic level. Changing deposition patterns of xenobiotic compounds over the summer 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

36 

and winter ranges of these birds provide a likely explanation for differing exposures through 

time. 

Braune, B. M.; Wakeford, Brian; and Gaston, Anthony. 1999. Contaminants in Arctic seabird 

eggs. Synopsis of Research Conducted Under the Northern Contaminants Program 1998-1999. 

Ottawa: Department of Indian Affairs and Northern Development. 77-80. 

Rec #: 310 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; benzenes; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; HCHs; 

metals; Hg; egg; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; glaucous-winged gull; 

Larus glaucescens; Nunavut; Canada; North America; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Five species of arctic seabird eggs were collected from Prince Leopold Island, 

Canada, in 1998 and analyzed for PCBs, DDE, chlordanes, dieldrin, mirex, chlorobenzenes, 

hexachlorobenzenes, and total mercury. 

Braune, Birgit M. 1987. Comparison of total mercury levels in relation to diet and molt for nine 

species of marine birds. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 16(2):217-224. 

Rec #: 382 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; red-necked phalarope; Phalaropus 

lobatus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; common tern; 

Sterna hirundo; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; New 

Brunswick; Canada; North America; muscle; liver; kidney; brain; feather; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Total Hg concentrations were analyzed for tissues of 9 species of marine birds 

from the Quoddy region, New Brunswick, Canada, including cormorants (Phalacrocorax 

auritus), eiders (Somateria mollissima), guillemots (Cepphus grylle), phalaropes (Phalaropus 

lobatus), gulls (Larus argentatus, L. philadelphia), terns (Sterna hirundo, S. paradisaea), and 

kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla). There was a progressive decrease in Hg concentration from the 

innermost to the outermost primary feather in Bonaparte's gulls, herring gulls, black-legged 

kittiwakes, and Arctic terns. Primaries of common terns and black guillemots showed no 

significant trend. Cormorants, guillemots, and eiders, which feed on benthic organisms, and 

common terns, which feed predominantly on fish, had the highest tissue Hg levels, whereas birds 

such as kittiwakes and phalaropes, which consume mainly pelagic invertebrates, had the lowest 

Hg levels. 

Braune, Birgit M. and Gaskin, David E. 1987. A Mercury Budget for the Bonaparte's Gull 

During Autumn Moult. Ornis Scand. 18(4):244-250. 

Rec #: 212 

KEYWORDS: energetics; metals; Hg; seasonal variations; bioaccumulation; elimination; 

feather; carcass; feces; Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; Bay of Fundy; New Brunswick; 

Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: A bioenergetics-based budget that predicts net total Hg loss during the period of 

autumn moult was calculated for adult Bonaparte's Gulls (Larus philadelphia) in the 

southwestern Bay of Fundy, Canada. Daily food consumption and, hence, ingestion of Hg 

measured in prey samples, was calculated from estimated energy requirements during the period 

of moult. The amount of Hg eliminated was estimated from analyses of Hg content in excreta 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

37 

and feathers. Elimination of Hg via the feathers accounted for 68 % of the total loss from the 

body in females and 59 % in males during the period of autumn moult. 

Braune, Birgit M. and Gaskin, David E. 1987. Mercury levels in Bonaparte's gulls (Larus 

philadelphia) during autumn molt in the Quoddy region, New Brunswick, Canada. Arch. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 16(5):539-549. 

Rec #: 213 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; body burden; North America; Canada; New Brunswick; Bay of 

Fundy; Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; feather; muscle; brain; liver; kidney; carcass; 

gender differences; age variations; bioaccumulation; elimination 

ABSTRACT: No significant between sex differences were detected in Hg concentrations in 

primary feathers, pectoral muscle, brain, liver, and kidney tissues of fall migrating juvenile and 

second-year Bonaparte's gulls (Larus philadelphia) collected in the Quoddy region. Adults 

showed sexual differences only in the first 5 primary feathers, and in muscle, kidney and brain. 

Differences in Hg concentrations among age groups were reflected in the primary feathers and 

body tissues, but as the molt progressed, Hg concentrations decreased as they converged toward 

a minimum asymptotic Hg level for each tissue. This suggests that the body burden of Hg was 

reduced through its redistribution from the body tissues into the growing feathers. Mercury 

concentrations in premolt head feathers (pre-egg-laying) did not vary significantly between adult 

females and males, whereas Hg concentrations in postmolt feathers (post-egg-laying) were 

significantly lower in females, suggesting that egg-laying was also a route for Hg elimination. 

Braune, Birgit M. and Norstrom, Ross J. 1989. Dynamics of organochlorine compounds in 

herring gulls: III. Tissue distribution and bioaccumulation in Lake Ontario gulls. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 8(10):957-968. 

Rec #: 214 

KEYWORDS: Great Lakes; North America; biomagnification; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

carcass; egg; liver; organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; DDTs; mirex; HCHs; chlordanes; dieldrin; 

PCDDs; PCDFs 

ABSTRACT: Apparent biomagnification factors (BMFs, wet weight basis) for organochlorine 

compounds in herring gulls (Larus argentatus) in Lake Ontario were shown to be related to 

chlorine substitution patterns in the case of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polychlorinated 

dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). PCBs accumulated 

according to the availability of adjacent positions not substituted with chlorine: (a) para-meta 

unsubstituted (P group), mean BMF 20 plus or minus 6.2; (b) meta-ortho unsubstituted (M 

group), mean BMF 87 plus or minus 36; and (c) no adjacent unsubstituted positions (blocked, B 

group), mean BMF 154 plus or minus 39. Among the other organochlorines, DDT, cis- and 

trans-nonachlor, dieldrin and octachlorostyrene magnified to the least extent (BMF 3-19), and 

photomirex, mirex and DDE magnified to the greatest extent (BMF 85-100). Of the PCDDs and 

PCDFs, 2,3,7,8-TCDD and 2,3,4,7,8-PnCDF biomagnified to a greater degree than did other 

congeners (BMF 32 and 7, respectively). 

Braune, Birgit M. and Simon, Mary. 2003. Dioxins, furans, and non-ortho PCBs in Canadian 

Arctic seabirds. Environ. Sci. Technol. 37(14):3071-3077. 

Rec #: 454 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; toxicology; TEQs; thick-billed murre; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

38 

Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 

Nunavut; Canada; North America; egg; liver; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: This is the first account of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), 

polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in 

Canadian Arctic seabirds. Livers and eggs of thick-billed murres, northern fulmars, and blacklegged kittiwakes were collected in 1975 and 1993 from Prince Leopold Island in Lancaster 

Sound, Canada. Detectable concentrations of PCDDs, PCDFs, and non-ortho PCBs were found 

in all the Arctic seabird samples analyzed. Of the PCDD congeners assayed, only 2,3,7,8-

substituted PCDDs were detected in the samples, whereas non-2,3,7,8-substituted PCDFs were 

found in addition to 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDFs in some of the samples. The predominant 

PCDD/F congener found in the livers of all three species was 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran, 

both in 1975 and 1993. Concentrations of most dioxins decreased in the fulmars and kittiwakes 

between 1975 and 1993 but increased in the murres. Of the non-ortho PCBs measured, PCB-126 

occurred in the highest concentrations and contributed the majority of the non-ortho PCB-TEQ 

in all three species in both years. The highest concentrations of dioxins, as well as the highest 

TEQ values, were found in the northern fulmar livers in both 1975 and 1993. Concentrations of 

some of the PCDDs and PCDFs are among the highest reported for Canadian Arctic biota. 

Braune, Birgit M.; Wong, Michael P.; Belles-Isles, Jean-Claude; and Marshall, W. Keith. 1991. 

Chemical residues in Canadian game birds. Technical Report Series No. 124. Ottawa, Ontario, 

Canada: Canadian Wildlife Service Ottawa Region. 375 pp. 

Rec #: 419 

KEYWORDS: review; organochlorines; aldrin; chlordanes; benzenes; HCHs; DDTs; dieldrin; 

endrin; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; HCB; mirex; OCS; toxaphene; phenols; metals; Ag; As; Cd; Cs; 

Cr; Cu; Fe; Pb; Hg; Ni; Se; Sr; V; Zn; organometallics; organolead; organic Hg; Canada goose; 

Branta canadensis; snow goose; Chen caerulescens; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; gadwall; Anas 

strepera; pintail; Anas acuta; green-winged teal; Anas crecca; blue-winged teal; Anas discors; 

American wigeon; Anas americana; shoveler; Anas clypeata; wood duck; Aix sponsa; redhead 

duck; Aythya americana; ring-necked duck; Aythya collaris; canvasback duck; Aythya 

valisineria; greater scaup; Aythya marila; lesser scaup; Aythya affinis; common goldeneye; 

Bucephala clangula; bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; surf scoter; 

Melanitta perspicillata; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; ruddy duck; Oxyura jamaicensis; common 

merganser; Mergus merganser; hooded merganser; Lophodytes cucullatus; red-breasted 

merganser; Mergus serrator; blue grouse; Dendragapus obscurus; spruce grouse; Dendragapus 

canadensis; ruffed grouse; Bonasa umbellus; willow ptarmigan; Lagopus lagopus; sharp-tailed 

grouse; Tympanuchus phasianellus; pheasant; Phasianus colchicus; chukar; Alectoris graeca; 

grey partridge; Perdix perdix; common moorhen; Gallinula chloropus; American coot; Fulica 

americana; American woodcock; Scolopax minor; common snipe; Gallinago gallinago; 

razorbill; Alca torda; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black 

guillemot; Cepphus grylle; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; marbled murrelet; 

Brachyramphus marmoratus; ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; Cassin's auklet; 

Ptychoramphus aleuticus; rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; Atlantic puffin; 

Fratercula arctica; tufted puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; common pigeon; Columba livia; mourning 

dove; Zenaida macroura; bone; brain; muscle; carcass; egg; fat; feather; gonad; intestine; 

kidney; liver; gland; Newfoundland; Nova Scotia; New Brunswick; Quebec; Ontario; Manitoba; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

39 

Saskatchewan; Alberta; British Columbia; Northwest Territories; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: This report reviews data on chemical residues in Canadian game birds. Past 

efforts on surveying residues in game birds and the health hazards posed by toxic chemicals to 

game birds and their consumers are discussed. The majority of residue surveys conducted in 

Canada focused on mercury, DDT, and PCB contamination. Although information is available 

for a large spectrum of contaminants, data are often limited for compounds other than those 

mentioned above. Most of the information was collected prior to 1975 in areas of known or 

suspected contamination. Important data gaps, thus, exist. 

Earlier studies reported high residue concentrations in tissues of game birds from a few areas 

(e.g., Alberta, New Brunswick). Chemical residues were generally found at low concentrations 

in birds from recent surveys. Nonetheless, there is evidence of important toxic chemical 

pollution in some areas (e.g., Hamilton Harbour, Ontario; Baie des Chaleurs, New Brunswick) 

Canadian game birds can also accumulate chemical residues along their migration routes or on 

their wintering grounds. Although levels of most organochlorines have declined since the 

mid1960s in the United States, unexpectedly high levels of contaminants are still found in game 

birds from a few wintering locations (e.g., Alabama). 

Game birds can concentrate chemical residues to levels of concern for their health and that of 

their consumers. Although estimates of the controlled harvests are available, there is little 

information on the native use of wildlife as food resources. More information is needed to assess 

the health hazard from consumption of contaminated game by native populations. 

Braune, Birgit Margret. 1985. Total mercury accumulation during Autumn moult in Bonaparte's 

gulls of the Quoddy region, New Brunswick, Canada. University of Guelph. Dept. of Zoology. 

Ph.D. Thesis. 232 pp. 

Rec #: 383 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; feather; liver; kidney; muscle; brain; heart; carcass; Bonaparte's gull; 

Larus philadelphia; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Arctic 

tern; Sterna paradisaea; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; red-necked phalarope; 

Phalaropus lobatus; New Brunswick; Canada; North America; bioaccumulation; gender 

differences; age variations; elimination 

NOTES: NOT ABLE TO OBTAIN 

ABSTRACT: Bonaparte’s Gulls (Larus philadelphia) used the Quoddy region as a major 

autumn staging ground during late July through December where they underwent postnuptial 

moult and feather renewal which lasted about 14 weeks. While in the region, the largest energy 

and total mercury contribution to the birds’ diet came from fish, with smaller contributions from 

euphausiids, insects and other marine invertebrates. After feathers, liver and kidney accumulated 

the highest mercury concentrations, and muscle, brain, heart and whole body mercury levels 

were not significantly different from each other. Juvenile and second-year birds showed no 

significant difference between sexes in mercury concentrations in primary feathers nor in the soft 

tissues, whereas adult males had higher mercury levels than females in the first five primary 

feathers, and in muscle, kidney and brain. Inter-age differences in mercury concentrations were 

reflected in the primary feathers and the soft tissues, but as the body burden of mercury was 

redistributed into the newly-developing feathers during moult, mercury concentrations in the soft 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

40 

tissues converged toward a minimum asymptotic mercury level for each tissue. After the 

completion moult, the new feathers contained most the body burden of mercury (93.0 % in 

adults). The calculated total mercury budget came within 33 % of the expected body burden of 

mercury for juveniles, within 20 % for second-year birds and within 10 % far adults. Other 

seabird species (Phalacrocorax auritus, Somateria mollissima,Cepphus grylle, Sterna hirundo) 

which fed predominantly on benthic organisms or fish had the highest mercury levels whereas 

species (Rissa tridactyla, Phalaropus lobatus) which consumed mainly pelagic invertebrates had 

the lowest levels. Four species (Larus philadelphia, L. argentatus, R. tridactyla. Sterna 

paradisaea) showed a progressive decrease in mercury concentrations through the primary 

feather sequence, while two other species (S. hirundo, C. grylle) showed no significant trend. 

Briggs, Kenneth T.; Yoshida, Steven H.; and Gershwin, M. Eric. 1996. The influence of 

petrochemicals and stress on the immune system of seabirds. Regul. Toxicol. Pharmacol. 

23(2):145-155. 

Rec #: 265 

KEYWORDS: oil; immunology; effects; review 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: There is increasing attention directed to the role of environmental pollutants in 

altering immune function. Only with the identification of the responsible environmental 

toxicants, and an understanding of their mechanisms of action, can we hope to treat immunotoxic 

injuries. This situation is exemplified by the exposure of wild birds to oil spills, the subsequent 

potential for direct toxicity from the oil, and the secondary toxicity of stress-induced immune 

modulation. Immunosuppressive mechanisms related to oil ingestion and handling stress are 

implicated in the morbidity and mortality of seabirds during care and following reentry into the 

wild. This does suggest that improvements in the treatment of these affected animals will 

enhance their survival and well-being. However, a survey of the literature shows that the 

implementation of better techniques are hampered by inadequate information on the 

immunological consequences of oil contact with seabirds. Marine oil pollution is a constant 

occurrence and will continue as long as oil and oil products are important commodities 

transported by sea routes. Among the numerous negative consequences of oil pollution are its 

effects on marine wildlife. There is much evidence that oil spills are responsible for massive 

seabird deaths. However, the constant, low level releases of petrochemicals probably contribute 

to the harmful effects of oil pollution on seabird populations. In an attempt to rectify the damage 

inflicted on seabirds by accidental oil discharge, rehabilitation centers are established for the 

cleaning and care of affected wildlife. Unfortunately, there is evidence that the ingestion of oil 

by preening and the handling stress undergone by birds in these centers lowers their ability to 

survive and reproduce following release to their native habitats. Although the reasons for this are 

unclear, there is the suggestion that both oil and handling will induce immunosuppressive 

mechanisms that ultimately predispose birds to infections and immune-mediated diseases, as 

well as reproductive, behavioral, and other problems. Thus, there are questions concerning the 

effectiveness of intervention measures currently being used in the rehabilitation of seabirds. 

Broman, Dag; Näf, Carina; Lundbergh, Ivar; and Zebühr, Yngve. 1990. An in situ study on the 

distribution, biotransformation and flux of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in an 

aquatic food chain (seston-Mytilus edulis L.-Somateria mollissima L.) from the Baltic: An 

ecotoxicological perspective. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 9(4):429-442. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

41 

Rec #: 485 

KEYWORDS: hydrocarbons; PAHs; common eider; Somateria mollissima; gallbladder; liver; 

fat; egg; Baltic Sea; Europe; biomagnification; metabolism 

ABSTRACT: This in situ study is focusing on the distribution, biotransformation, and flux of 19 

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the food chain seston-blue mussel (M. edulis)-

common eider duck (S. mollissima) as well as the distribution in the gallbladder, liver, adipose 

tissue, and egg of the duck. All samples were collected within the open northern Baltic proper 

coastal areas. Analyses were carried out by GC/mass spectrometry with electron-impact and 

negative-ion chemical ionization. With a multivariate statistical method, a significant change in 

the PAH composition through the food chain was found. This change probably depends on an 

increasing metabolic activity with increasing trophic level, due to a selective biotransformation 

capacity for different PAHs. Decreasing PAH concentrations with increasing trophic level were 

found. The PAH concentrations in the different eider duck organs were: gallbladder > adipose 

tissue ≥ liver. The theoretical inhalation of air-dispersed PAHs was of no significance compared 

to the exposure from food. The relatively high theoretical PAH flux through the food chain did 

not result in increasing concentrations with increasing trophic level, which indicates that PAHs 

are biotransformed quite fast. However, many intermediate metabolites of PAHs have a 

mutagenic and carcinogenic potential, which makes it important to observe these compounds 

when assessing ecotoxicological risks. 

Broman, Dag; Näf, Carina; Rolff, Carl; Zebühr, Yngve; Fry, Brian; and Hobbie, John. 1992. 

Using ratios of stable nitrogen isotopes to estimate bioaccumulation and flux of polychlorinated 

dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in two food chains from the northern 

Baltic. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 11(3):331-345. 

Rec #: 483 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; stable isotopes; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima; carcass; muscle; fat; viscera; feces; bile; biomagnification; 

elimination; metabolism 

ABSTRACT: A method for the estimation of in situ biomagnification of organic contaminants 

uses ratios of naturally occurring stable isotopes of N to classify trophic levels of organisms from 

one littoral and one pelagic food chain in the northern Baltic proper. Results indicated a 

biomagnification of polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins and -furans (PCDD/Fs), whereas the total 

concentration of 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDD/Fs, and particularly octachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin and -

dibenzofuran (OCDD/F), decreased with increasing trophic level in the food chains. A 

calculated flux estimate of PCDD/Fs in juvenile eider ducks was supported by results from the 

biomagnification study; i.e., the most toxic 2,3,7,8-substituted isomers tended to accumulate in 

the tissue of the eider duck. Out of the total PCDD/Fs consumed by the eider ducks, only 10 % 

were recovered in the body and approximately 10 % were recovered in feces, whereas 80 % were 

not recovered, i.e., were excreted or remained as unidentified metabolites. Of the most toxic 

2,3,7,8-substituted isomers, 57 % were recovered in the tissue, 30 % were recovered in the feces, 

and only 13 % were not recovered (i.e., metabolized and/or excreted). 

Brown, N. J. and Brown, A. W. A. 1970. Biological fate of DDT in a sub-arctic environment. J. 

Wildl. Manage. 34(4):929-940. 

Rec #: 384 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; willow ptarmigan; Lagopus lagopus; Arctic tern; Sterna 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

42 

paradisaea; Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; Manitoba; Canada; North America; fat; brain; 

muscle; kidney; liver; intestine; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Residues of DDT plus metabolites were determined in 660 samples of soil, plants, 

and animals in an area at Fort Churchill treated with 22 airsprays at 0.22 lb./acre applied between 

1947 and 1964. The average residues of DDT plus metabolites in the fat of birds ranged between 

3 ppm in the willow ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus) and 64 ppm in the arctic tern (Sterna 

paradisaea) as compared with 0.2-12 ppm in fat from birds taken in the surrounding unsprayed 

area. The proportion of DDE found in the various bird species was partly dependent on the DDE 

production of their plant or invertebrate food. Of the tissues assessed, the pectoral muscle had 

the lowest residue, except in the case of the Arctic tern and Bonaparte's gull (Larus 

philadelphia). 

Brunström, Björn and Halldin, Krister. 2000. Ecotoxicological risk assessment of environmental 

pollutants in the Arctic. Toxicol. Lett. 112-113:111-118. 

Rec #: 436 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; toxicology; TEQs; egg; liver; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; liver; Barents Sea; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; 

Canada; North America; temporal trends; reproductive success; effects 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: A review and discussion with many references concentrations of such persistent 

organic pollutants (POPs) as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are high in certain Arctic animal 

species. The polar bear, Arctic fox, and glaucous gull may be exposed to PCB levels above 

lowest-observed-adverse-effect-level (LOAEL) values for adverse effects on reproduction in 

mammals and birds. However, the dioxin-like congeners seem to be major contributors to the 

reproductive effects of PCBs and the relative concentrations of these congeners are low in polar 

bears. Temporal trends for POPs in Arctic wildlife and the sensitivities of Arctic species to these 

compounds detect the risk for future adverse health effects. 

Buckman, Andrea H.; Norstrom, Ross J.; Hobson, Keith A.; Karnovsky, Nina J.; Duffe, Jason; 

and Fisk, Aaron T. 2004. Organochlorine contaminants in seven species of Arctic seabirds from 

northern Baffin Bay. Environ. Pollut. 128(3):327-338. 

Rec #: 439 

KEYWORDS: Northwater Polynya; Canada; Greenland; North America; Atlantic Ocean; fat; 

liver; muscle; little auk; Alle alle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black guillemot; Cepphus 

grylle; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; glaucous gull; 

Larus hyperboreus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; 

benzenes; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; OCS; dieldrin; mirex; stable isotopes; biomagnification; 

gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine contaminants (OCs) were detected in liver and fat of seven 

species of seabirds (Alle alle, Uria lomvia, Cepphus grylle, Rissa tridactyla, Pagophila eburnea, 

Larus hyperboreus, and Fulmarus glacialis) collected in May/June 1998 from the Northwater 

Polynya in northern Baffin Bay. OC concentrations ranged over an order of magnitude between 

seabird species and OC groups, with PCBs having the highest concentrations followed by DDT, 

chlordane, HCH and ClBz. Positive relationships between δ15N (estimator of trophic level) and 

OC concentrations (lipid basis) were found for all OC groups, showing that trophic position and 

biomagnification significantly influence OC concentrations in Arctic seabirds. Concentrations of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

43 

a number of OCs in particular species (e.g., HCH in P. eburnean) were lower than expected 

based on δ15N and was attributed to biotransformation. P. eburnea and F. glacialis, which 

scavenge, and R. tridactyla, which migrate from the south, were consistently above the δ15N-OC 

regression providing evidence that these variables can elevate OC concentrations Stable isotope 

measurements in muscle may not be suitable for identifying past scavenging events by seabirds. 

OC relative proportions were related to trophic position and phylogeny, showing that OC 

biotransformation varies between seabird groups. Trophic level, migration, scavenging and 

biotransformation all play important roles in the OCs found in Arctic seabirds. Concentrations 

of organochlorines in high Arctic seabirds are influenced by trophic level, migration, scavenging 

and biotransformation. 

Bull, K. R.; Murton, R. K.; Osborn, D.; Ward, P.; and Cheng, Lana. 1977. High levels of 

cadmium in Atlantic seabirds and sea-skaters. Nature. 269(5628):507-509. 

Rec #: 388 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; kidney; liver; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Manx 

shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; Leach's storm-petrel; 

Oceanodroma leucorhoa; storm-petrel; Hydrobates pelagicus; razorbill; Alca torda; Scotland; 

Europe; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The Cd concentrations of kidney and liver were determined in 21 Atlantic 

seabirds representing 6 species (fulmar, Manx shearwater, puffin, Leach's petrel, storm petrel, 

and razorbill); the Cd residues were higher in the kidney (range 14.6-240 mg/kg dry weight) than 

in the liver (range 1.4-57.0 mg/kg dry weight). Cd residues were higher in the pelagic species 

(shearwaters, puffins, and petrels) than in the razorbill. Samples of marine insects (Halobates 

micans), obtained from tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean, contained a mean Cd concentration 

of 22.7 mg/kg dry weight High Cd concentrations found in seabirds appear to originate from 

natural, rather than industrial, sources; the birds have probably developed mechanisms which 

enable them to tolerate Cd. 

Burger, J. 1990. Behavioral effects of early postnatal lead exposure in herring gull (Larus 

argentatus) chicks. Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 35(1):7-13. 

Rec #: 196 

KEYWORDS: effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus; metals; Pb; dosing study; NJ; USA; 

North America 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: In this paper, I use the herring gull, Larus argentatus, as an animal model to 

examine effects of lead exposure on early development. Like humans, birds rely mainly on visual 

and vocal, rather than olfactory, modes of communication. Although on most days, begging 

behavior, balance and righting response did not differ significantly, over the 45 days of the 

experiment control birds performed better on more days than the lead-injected birds. Balance 

was disturbed by lead-injection for the first six days following injection. Individual recognition 

developed by day 5 in control birds, by day 10 for 0.1 Pb mg/g birds, and by day 14 for 0.2 Pb 

mg/g birds. Depth perception and thermoregulation behavior were also adversely affected by 

lead. 

Burger, J. 1997. Heavy metals and selenium in herring gulls (Larus argentatus) nesting in 

colonies from eastern Long Island to Virginia. Environ. Monit. Assess. 48(3):285-296. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

44 

Rec #: 158 

KEYWORDS: NY; NJ; VA; USA; North America; metals; Pb; Hg; Cd; Se; Cr; Mn; feather; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; feather; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: With increasing interest in assessing the health or well-being of communities and 

ecosystems, birds are being used as bioindicators. Colonially nesting species breed mainly in 

coastal areas that are also preferred for human development, exposing the birds to various 

pollutants. In this paper concentrations of heavy metal and selenium in the feathers of Herring 

Gulls (Larus argentatus) nesting in several colonies from Massachusetts to Delaware are 

reported. There were significant differences among colonies for all metals, with metal 

concentrations being two to nearly five times higher at some colonies than others. Selenium 

showed the least difference, and cadmium showed the greatest difference among sites. 

Concentrations of lead were highest at Prall's Island; mercury was highest at Shinnecock, 

Huckleberry and Harvey, and manganese was highest at Captree. 

Burger, J. and Gochfeld, M. 1995. Heavy metal and selenium concentrations in eggs of herring 

gulls (Larus argentatus): Temporal differences from 1989 to 1994. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 29(2):192-197. 

Rec #: 275 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Cr; Mn; Se; temporal trends; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

egg; NY; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of five metals and selenium in the eggs of herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus) were examined at a breeding colony on western Long Island, New York from 1989 

to 1994. There were significant yearly differences in lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium, 

chromium, and manganese. Chromium and cadmium were significantly higher in 1993 compared 

to the other years. Lead levels were highest in 1989, and were uniformly lower in the succeeding 

four years. Manganese showed no clear pattern. Selenium concentrations decreased from 1991 

through 1994, whereas mercury increased from 1992 through 1994. Generally, concentrations of 

cadmium were similar to those reported for avian eggs from elsewhere; mercury and lead were 

within the range, but were at the high end; and chromium concentrations were higher than 

elsewhere. For all years combined, there was a positive correlation between lead and cadmium 

concentrations and between chromium and manganese, and a negative correlation between lead 

and mercury concentrations. In conclusion, egg contents can be used to monitor heavy metal 

concentrations, but consecutive years must be examined because concentrations can vary 

significantly among years. Ideally, data are needed for more than three years before trends, or 

lack thereof, can be determined. 

Burger, Joanna. 2002. Food chain differences affect heavy metals in bird eggs in Barnegat Bay, 

New Jersey. Environ. Res. 90(1):33-39. 

Rec #: 359 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; great black-backed gull; 

Larus marinus; black skimmer; Rynchops niger; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; common tern; 

Sterna hirundo; metals; As; Cd; Cr; Pb; Mn; Hg; Se; NJ; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: There is an abundance of field data on levels of mercury in a wide variety of birds 

and on a suite of heavy metals in single species of birds, but few studies examine a suite of 

metals in a suite of birds that represent different trophic levels. Thus it is often difficult to detect 

whether food chain differences exist and have ecological relevance for the birds. In this paper I 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

45 

examine the levels of seven metals in the eggs of five species of marine birds that nest in 

Barnegat Bay, New Jersey to detect whether there are differences among species and whether 

such differences reflect food chain differences. There were significant differences among 

species for all metals, except cadmium, with black skimmers (Rynchops niger) having the 

highest levels of all metals except manganese and selenium. Metal concentrations in eggs 

mainly represented food chain differences. Mercury exhibited the greatest interspecific 

difference, with skimmer eggs having five times higher mercury levels than the eggs of great 

black-backed gulls (Larus marinus). Although there were significant interspecific differences in 

the other metals, they were generally less than an order of magnitude. There were few high, 

significant correlations among metals, although mercury was positively correlated with arsenic 

overall. Mean mercury levels exceeded the level known to adversely affect development in bird 

eggs for common (Sterna hirundo) and Forster's (Sterna forsteri) terns and for skimmers and 

exceeded the mean for eggs of fish-eating birds reported from 68 studies. 

Burger, Joanna. 1995. Heavy metal and selenium levels in feathers of herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus): Differences due to year, gender, and age at Captree, Long Island. Environ. Monit. 

Assess. 38(1):37-50. 

Rec #: 53 

KEYWORDS: metals; Se; Hg; Pb; Cd; Cr; Mn; Se; bioaccumulation; effects; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; feather; NY; USA; North America; gender differences; age variations 

ABSTRACT: The concentrations of heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium, chromium, 

manganese) and selenium in the feathers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) from a nesting 

colony at Captree, Long Island, New York were examined from 1989 to 1993 to determine if 

there were differences from year to year, and between males and females, adult and young, and 

dead versus live gulls. Variation in metal levels in regression models was explained by age (all 

metals), year (all except manganese), and whether the feathers were from live or dead birds (all 

except lead and chromium). The feathers of adults had significantly higher levels of mercury, 

lead and manganese than those of young, but lower levels of selenium and cadmium than those 

of young. Levels in down and fledgling feathers were similar for lead, cadmium and selenium, 

but fledgling feathers had higher levels for mercury, chromium, and manganese. There were no 

gender differences in metal levels for adult feathers except for lead (females had higher levels). 

Levels of mercury and manganese were higher in feathers of live adults whereas levels of 

cadmium and selenium were higher in the feathers of dead adults. 

Burger, Joanna. 1994. Heavy metals in avian eggshells: Another excretion method. J. Toxicol. 

Environ. Health. 41(2):207-220. 

Rec #: 90 

KEYWORDS: effects; eggshell; egg; elimination; roseate tern; Sterna dougallii; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Se; Mn; Cr; NY; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: Birds can rid their bodies of heavy metals through both excretion and deposition 

in feathers, and females can also eliminate heavy metals in the contents of their eggs. In this 

paper the levels of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, selenium, manganese, chromium) in 

the contents and shells of eggs of roseate terns (Sterna dougallii) and herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus) nesting at Cedar Beach, Long Island, are reported. For both species, metal 

concentrations were significantly higher in the contents compared to the shells for lead, mercury, 

selenium, and chromium. For herring gulls, metal levels were higher in the shells for cadmium 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

46 

and manganese. Levels of cadmium, mercury, and selenium were significantly higher in roseate 

ten egg contents than for herring gulls. In eggshells, lead, cadmium, mercury, and selenium were 

significantly higher in roseate terns compared to herring gulls. For both species, eggshells 

account for about 7-8 % of the egg by weight, but less than 1 % of the egg burden for mercury, 

1-5 % for lead, selenium, and chromium, and 7-11 % for manganese. For cadmium, shells 

account for only 5 % of the egg burden for roseate terns, but 29 % for herring gulls. These data 

suggest that, except for mercury, eggshells provide another method of excretion of metals in 

these two species of birds. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1995. Behavior effects of lead exposure on different days 

for gull (Larus argentatus) chicks. Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 50(1):97-105. 

Rec #: 277 

KEYWORDS: effects; metals; Pb; temporal trends; herring gull; Larus argentatus; NJ; USA; 

North America; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Lead exposure early in life affects behavioral, physiologic, and intellectual 

development in humans and other animals. In this article, we examine the effects of temporal 

differences in lead exposure on early development in herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Each of 

72 1-day-old herring gull chicks was randomly assigned to one of six treatment groups to receive 

a lead nitrate concentration of 100 μg/g at age 2 or at age 6, a similar cumulative dose evenly 

divided on days 2, 4, and 6, or matched-volume saline injections on the same days. Behavioral 

tests were performed (some at 2- and others at 5-day intervals) to examine locomotion, balance, 

righting response, thermoregulation, and visual cliff. Most variation in weight was explained by 

testing age, although treatment affected weight gain for the lead-6 gulls, particularly after 20 

days. Although treatment influenced balance and locomotion, the effect was small. The lead-6 

birds were unable to remain on an incline as long as the lead-2, lead-246, and control birds. The 

overall score for balance improved with age for controls, showed little change for the lead-2 and 

lead-2-4-6 gulls, but showed a decrease in performance for the lead-6 birds. On the 

thermoregulation test, the lead-6 birds performed less well under both low- and high-temperature 

test conditions. Although the lead-2-4-6 birds had a lower score on the visual cliff tests than the 

other groups, the lead-6 gulls showed a significant delay in response and gave significantly fewer 

calls then the other groups. Overall, the data showed that the lead-6 group was more affected by 

the dose than the other groups, suggesting that 6 days of age may be a more critical period than 

earlier ages for some behaviors. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1994. Behavioral impairments of lead-injected young 

herring gulls in nature. Fundam. Appl. Toxicol. 23(4):553-561. 

Rec #: 285 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; herring gull; Larus argentatus; effects; NY; USA; North America; 

dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Lead is ubiquitous in the environment, and trace amounts enter the food chain and 

bioaccumulate in organisms high on the food chain. Although lead levels have been examined in 

a variety of wild species, effects data are usually from laboratory studies. Thus the relevance of 

effects to survival and fitness are not directly determined. In the field we compared the behavior 

of lead-injected young herring gulls (Larus argentatus) to the behavior of their control siblings 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

47 

who received an injection with no lead and to chicks from control nests that received no 

injections. Lead-injected chicks had significantly lower survival rates than all controls. Leadinjected chicks were less healthy than control chicks as measured by begging and walking scores 

and by the number of times they stumbled when walking. Control chicks had a higher degree of 

accuracy when pecking at their parents' bills to stimulate feeding compared to the lead-injected 

chicks. For all chicks, begging and walking scores improved with age. Behavioral deficits 

measured in the laboratory are homologous with those observed in the field. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1988. Effects of lead on growth in young herring gulls 

(Larus argentatus). J. Toxicol. Environ. Health. 25(2):227-236. 

Rec #: 82 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus; NJ; USA; North America; 

dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: One-day-old herring gulls (Larus argentatus) were injected intraperitoneally with 

lead nitrate solution (0.1 or 0.2 mg Pb/g) or sterile saline to examine differences in growth rates. 

Despite the low levels of lead exposure, by d 8 there were significant differences in growth rates 

as a function of treatment. There were also, by d 8, significant differences in bill length, tarsus 

length, and wing bone length. Except for bill length, these differences persisted for the duration 

of the study. Developmental curves varied, with lead-treated birds reaching the same asymptote 

as control birds for bill length, but having a lower asymptote for tarsus length. For curves where 

asymptotes were reached, lead-treated birds required more days to reach it than control birds. 

The initial amount of food eaten each day was positively correlated with weight gain for control 

birds, but negatively correlated for lead-treated birds. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1995. Growth and behavioral effects of early postnatal 

chromium and manganese exposure in herring gull (Larus argentatus) chicks. Pharmacol. 

Biochem. Behav. 50(4):607-612. 

Rec #: 287 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cr; Mn; herring gull; Larus argentatus; effects; NY; USA; North 

America; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Organisms in marine environments are exposed to chromium and manganese, yet 

little is known of the effects of these metals on physiology and behavior. In this article we 

examine the effects of chromium and manganese on early neurobehavioral development in 

herring gulls, Larus argentatus. Each of 36 2-day-old herring gull chicks was randomly assigned 

to one of three treatment groups to receive either chromium nitrate, manganese acetate (50 

mg/kg), or a control dose of sterile saline solution. The trios were not siblings, but were matched 

by age and weight. Behavioral tests examined food-begging, balance, locomotion, righting 

response, recognition, thermoregulation, and perception. There were significant differences in 

begging behavior by 5 days postinjection, and there were significant differences in weight gain 

throughout development until 50 days of age, when the experiment was terminated. Behavioral 

tests, administered from 18-48 days postinjection, indicated significant differences between 

control and the exposed groups for time to right themselves; thermoregulation behavior; and 

performance on a balance beam, inclined plane, actual cliff, and visual cliff (although not all 

components varied significantly). Of the 14 behavioral measures with significant differences, 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

48 

control birds performed best on 12. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1996. Heavy metal and selenium levels in birds at 

Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota: Food chain differences. Environ. Monit. Assess. 

43(3):267-282. 

Rec #: 279 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Se; Cr; Mn; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; black-crowned night heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; Franklin's gull; Larus pipixcan; 

American bittern; Botaurus lentiginosus; American coot; Fulica americana; eared grebe; 

Podiceps caspicus; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; biomagnification; feather; egg; MN; 

USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: The levels of heavy metals and selenium in the eggs and in breast feathers of adult 

double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax 

nycticorax), and Franklin's gull (Larus pipixcan) nesting at Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge in 

Marshall County, northwestern Minnesota were examined. Also examined were metal levels in 

the feathers of fledgling night herons and gulls, in the feathers of adult and fledgling American 

bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus), in eggs of American coot (Fulica americana) and eared grebe 

(Podiceps caspicus), and in feathers of adult Canada geese (Branta canadensis). These species 

represent different levels on the food chain from primarily vegetation-eating species (geese, 

coot) to species that eat primarily fish (cormorant). A clear, positive relationship between level 

on the food chain and levels of heavy metals occurred only for mercury in feathers and eggs. 

Otherwise, eared grebes had the highest levels of all other metals in their eggs compared to the 

other species. No clear food chain pattern existed for feathers for the other metals. For eggs at 

Agassiz: 1) lead, selenium, and manganese levels were similar to those reported in the literature, 

2) mercury levels were slightly higher for cormorants and night herons, 3) all species had higher 

chromium and cadmium levels than generally reported, and 4) eared grebes had significantly 

higher levels of cadmium than reported for any species from elsewhere. For adult feathers: 1) 

gulls had higher levels of lead than the other species, 2) cadmium levels were elevated in gulls 

and adult herons and cormorants, 3) mercury levels showed an increase with position on the food 

chain, 4) selenium and chromium levels of all birds at Agassiz were generally low and 5) 

manganese levels in adults were generally higher than in the literature for other species. Adults 

had significantly higher mercury levels than fledgling gulls, night herons, and bitterns. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1993. Lead and behavioral development in young herring 

gulls: Effects of timing of exposure on individual recognition. Fundam. Appl. Toxicol. 

21(2):187-195. 

Rec #: 276 

KEYWORDS: effects; metals; Pb; herring gull; Larus argentatus; NY; NJ; USA; North 

America; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Lead exposure early in life affects behavioral, physiological, and intellectual 

development in humans and other animals. Recognition of parents or other caregivers and 

eventual bonding are essential aspects of behavioral development. In this paper young herring 

gulls, Larus argentatus, were used to examine the effect of timing of lead exposure on individual 

recognition behavior and development. Each of 60 1-day-old herring gull chicks was randomly 

assigned to a control group or to one of three treatment groups that received a single dose of lead 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

49 

nitrate solution (100 mg/kg) at Day 2 or 6 of age or the same total dose divided in thirds on Day 

2, 4, and 6. Matched controls were injected with isotonic saline on the same schedules. 

Variations in individual recognition of human attendants were largely explained by age and 

status (lead versus control), and some variation was explained by day of injection (exposure 

regime). Using a feeding paradigm, the percentage responding to their caretaker compared to 

another person was higher (70 % versus 38 %), and occurred earlier in controls compared to 

lead-injected birds. Lead-injected birds required longer to respond initially, took longer to 

choose, moved less distance per time, and took longer to eventually reach the food. These results 

were all significant by GLM models and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Among lead-injected birds there 

was a disjunction of effect related to dosing schedule: birds injected on Day 6 chose more 

correctly but were slower to respond, indicating that these behavioral traits were differently 

affected by timing of exposure. These data suggest that there is a critical period during 

development when individual recognition can be disrupted by lead. 

Burger, Joanna and Gochfeld, Michael. 1993. Lead and cadmium accumulation in eggs and 

fledgling seabirds in the New York Bight. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 12(2):261-267. 

Rec #: 281 

KEYWORDS: bioaccumulation; metals; Pb; Cd; egg; feather; NY; NJ; USA; North America; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; roseate tern; Sterna dougallii; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; 

black skimmer; Rynchops niger; herring gull; Larus argentatus; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: We measured lead and cadmium concentrations in eggs and in the breast feathers 

of fledglings of common tern (Sterna hirundo), roseate tern (S. dougallii), Forster's tern (S. 

forsteri), black skimmer (Rynchops niger), and herring gull (Larus argentatus) nesting in mixedspecies colonies in the New York Bight, USA, in 1989. Metal concentrations in fledgling 

feathers represent in part metals sequestered in the egg by females and accumulation from food 

brought back to chicks by parents, and thus may be a measure of local metal acquisition. There 

were significant interspecific differences in lead in eggs, and lead and cadmium in fledgling 

feathers. Herring gulls had the most lead in eggs, whereas the terns had the least. Cadmium 

concentrations were generally low in all examined eggs. Lead concentrations were high in 

fledgling feathers in some populations of all species. Cadmium was highest in fledgling feathers 

of herring gull and skimmers. Among fledgling terns, the roseate tern (a federally endangered 

species) had the highest concentrations. For all species except herring gull, the feathers of 

fledglings had higher levels of metals than did eggs. 

Burger, Joanna; Reilly, Stephanie M.; and Gochfeld, Michael. 1992. Comparison of lead levels 

in bone, feathers, and liver of herring gull chicks (Larus argentatus). Pharmacol. Biochem. 

Behav. 41(2):289-293. 

Rec #: 79 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; bone; liver; feather; liver; herring gull; Larus argentatus; NY; USA; 

North America; dosing study 

ABSTRACT: Bone, feathers, and liver were analyzed for lead in herring gull chicks (Larus 

argentatus) of two different ages. The highest levels were found in the bone, evidence of chronic 

exposure. No differences were found within the bones. Differences occurred between different 

bones, with the ribs having twice the amount of lead than any other bone. These studies indicate 

that type of bone affects lead levels; thus researchers should clearly state which parts of which 

bones are examined. It is also suggested that for humans consistent location should be used for 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

50 

analysis by in vivo X-ray fluorescence. 

Bustnes, J. O.; Bakken, V.; Erikstad, K. E.; Mehlum, F.; and Skaare, J. U. 2001. Patterns of 

incubation and nest-site attentiveness in relation to organochlorine (PCB) contamination in 

glaucous gulls. J. Appl. Ecol. 38(4):791-801. 

Rec #: 381 

KEYWORDS: effects; reproductive success; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Norway; 

Svalbard; Europe; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; blood; gender differences; 

ABSTRACT: 1. Although experimental studies show that organochlorines (OC) can affect bird 

behavior, field assessments are invariably confounded by ecological differences between 

contaminated and uncontaminated sites. The behavior of individual birds in the field has rarely 

been related to the contaminant burden. 2. We examined individual patterns of incubation and 

nest-site attentiveness in relation to OC burden, measured as polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 

concentration in the blood, of 27 glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, in two breeding areas at 

Bear Island, in the north-eastern Atlantic. 3. Blood PCB concentrations ranged from 52 ng g-1 to 

1079 ng g-1 (wet weight). There were significant differences between the two breeding areas, 

and females had significantly lower concentrations than males. 4. Gull behavior differed 

significantly between breeding areas and sexes independently of PCB. Females incubated more 

than males (54 % vs. 46 %) but spent more time away from the nest site than males, both overall 

(23 % vs. 12 %) and when not incubating (50 % vs. 21 %). They were also absent for longer 

periods (4.5 vs. 2.8 h). Moreover, length of incubation bouts (6.4 vs. 4.4 h), the amount of time 

absent from the nest site when not incubating (51 % vs. 25 %) and length of absences (5.6 vs. 1.8 

h) differed between breeding areas, probably due to different feeding specializations. 5. After 

controlling for these area and sex effects, the proportion of time absent from the nest site when 

not incubating, and the number of absences, were both significantly related to blood 

concentration of PCB. 6. Increased absence from the nest site in individual glaucous gulls with 

high blood concentrations of OC suggests effects on reproductive behavior. We speculate that 

endocrine disruption or neurological effects might be involved, leading to increased energetic 

costs during incubation and reduced reproductive output. 

Bustnes, Jan O.; Bakken, Vidar; Erikstad, Kjell E.; Mehlum, Fritjof; and Skaare, Janneche U. 

2001. Effects of long-transported organochlorines on the behavior of Arctic breeding glaucous 

gulls (Larus hyperboreus): Evidence using blood samples. Organohalogen Compounds. 53:204-

206. 

Rec #: 379 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; organochlorines; PCBs; Barents Sea; 

Svalbard; Norway; Europe; blood; reproductive success; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: The variation in the patterns of incubation and nest-site attentiveness of individual 

glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, was examined in relation to their blood polychlorinated 

biphenyl concentration. Two different breeding areas were used, one at a seabird cliff, where 

birds fed predominantly on eggs and of other seabirds, and one close to sea level where the birds 

fed largely on fish. The nesting period is the most critical phase in avian reproduction, rendering 

both parents and offspring vulnerable to predation and starvation. Gull behavior differed 

considerably between breeding areas and sexes independently of PCB. Organochlorines may 

affect reproductive behavior through endocrine disruption, since several compounds are known 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

51 

to alter hormone levels and may act as estrogen or thyroxine agonists or antagonists. Even if the 

levels of PCB found in the brains of glaucous gulls at Bear Island are considerably lower than 

those usually considered lethal in birds, the individuals with high levels are well within the range 

expected to produce behavioral aberrations. 

Bustnes, Jan O.; Skaare, Janneche U.; Erikstad, Kjell E.; Bakken, Vidar; and Mehlum, Fritjof. 

2001. Whole blood concentrations of organochlorines as a dose metric for studies of the 

glaucous gull Larus hyperboreus. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 20(5):1046-1052. 

Rec #: 326 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; blood; glaucous gull; 

Larus hyperboreus; Norway; Europe; seasonal variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: In order to examine if whole blood concentrations of organochlorines (OCs) is an 

appropriate dosimetric parameter for use in ecotoxicological studies of free-living birds, a 

number of incubating glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) were repeatedly sampled within and 

between subsequent breeding seasons. The wet weight concentrations of selected OCs, differing 

in persistence and fat solubility, were compared and it was assessed to what extent present 

concentrations could be predicted from concentrations previously measured in the individuals. 

There were only a few significant differences in the blood concentrations of the selected OCs 

within and between seasons. The most persistent compound, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-

153, showed a low interindividual variability, and between seasons, 70 % of the variance could 

be explained by the level in the previous year, while changes in body condition and blood lipid 

percentage were of less importance. For PCB-101, the predictability of the present blood 

concentration from the previous concentration was lower than for PCB-153, and changes in body 

condition and blood lipid percentage explained a higher proportion of the variance. The present 

level of -hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) could not be predicted from the previous level. Sex did 

not explain any significant proportion of the variance in OC concentrations when previous level 

and changes in body mass and blood lipid were included in the statistical models. Thus, for the 

most persistent OCs, concentration in the blood of incubating glaucous gulls is representative for 

the interindividual differences over time and whole blood concentrations of OCs appear adequate 

as a dose metric in ecotoxicological studies. 

Bustnes, Jan Ove; Bakken, Vidar; Skaare, Janneche Utne; and Erikstad, Kjell Einar. 2003. Age 

and accumulation of persistent organochlorines: A study of arctic-breeding glaucous gulls (Larus 

hyperboreus). Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 22(9):2173-2179. 

Rec #: 440 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Norway; Europe; blood; organochlorines; 

HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; age variations; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: The authors studied the relationship between increasing age and blood 

concentrations of 4 persistent organochlorines (OCs), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), oxychlordane, 

p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), and 2,2',4,4',5,5'-hexachlorbiphenyl (PCB 153), in 

arctic-breeding glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus). The authors measured OC concentrations in 

31 individuals of known age and took repeated blood samples of 64 individuals in different 

years, either 1 year apart or 3 or 4 years apart. The age of individuals was not related to the 

blood concentrations for any of the 4 compounds, and in birds whose values were measured 

repeatedly, there was no effect of the length of time (number of years) between sampling events 

on the relative change in OC concentrations. This indicates that steady-state levels were reached 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

52 

before the age of first breeding. However, breeding area significantly influenced the changes in 

OC concentration between sampling events. In areas in which birds fed on prey from higher 

trophic levels, the OC concentrations showed large increases between sampling events; in areas 

in which birds fed at lower trophic levels, OC concentrations increased relatively little or not at 

all. This indicates that individual birds had different equilibrium concentrations, which are 

reached at different ages depending on the intake of OCs through the food. It also indicates that 

some individuals had not reached steady-state concentrations at the onset of reproduction. 

Changes in body condition and amount of blood lipids were of lesser importance than trophic 

level and influenced the concentrations of HCB and oxychlordane more strongly than DDE and 

PCB 153. Thus, steady-state concentrations of persistent OCs are reached early in life in most 

glaucous gulls, considering the long life span of the species. 

Butler, R. G.; Peakall, D. B.; Leighton, F. A.; Borthwick, J.; and Harmon, R. S. 1986. Effects of 

crude oil exposure on standard metabolic rate of Leach's storm-petrel. Condor. 88(2):248-249. 

Rec #: 139 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; metabolism; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; dosing 

study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: In a previous report (Trivelpiece et al. 1984) the authors noted decreased survival 

and reduced growth rate in chicks of oil-dosed adult Leach's Storm-Petrels (Oceanodroma 

leucorhoa). It was suggested that these effects were related to impaired ability of oil-dosed adults 

to provide food for their young, possibly due to elevated metabolic demands following 

contamination. The authors report here the effects of oil exposure on the standard metabolic rate 

of adults of this species using two different experimental methods. 

Butler, Ronald G.; Trivelpiece, Wayne; Miller, David; Bishop, Paul; D'Amico, Christopher; 

D'Amico, Melissa; Lambert, Gabrielle; and Peakall, David. 1979. Further studies of the effects 

of petroleum hydrocarbons on marine birds. Bull. Mt. Desert Isl. Biol. Lab. 19:33-35. 

Rec #: 129 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; toxicology; dosing study; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Leach's 

storm petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The effects of crude oil on Larus argentatus and Oceanodroma leucorhoa were 

studied to find out which components of the oil were directly responsible for the effects observed 

and whether the toxic effects could be modified by emulsification of the oil. High molecular 

weight aromatic compounds in the oil were found to be responsible for the physiological effects 

observed in the birds. The effects of some dispersants are discussed and the effect of crude oil on 

subsequent generations is also briefly mentioned. 

Cahill, T. M.; Anderson, D. W.; Elbert, R. A.; Perley, B. P.; and Johnson, D. R. 1998. Elemental 

profiles in feather samples from a mercury-contaminated lake in central California. Arch. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 35(1):75-81. 

Rec #: 402 

KEYWORDS: feather; metals; Hg; S; Ca; Ti; Sc; Cr; Fe; Ni; Zn; As; Se; Br; Rb; Sr; Pb; osprey; 

Pandion haliaetus; western grebe; Aechmophorus occidentalis; great blue heron; Ardea 

herodias; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; turkey vulture; Cathartes aura; double-crested 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

53 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; CA; ID; USA; North America; age variations; 

bioaccumulation; biomagnification; reproductive success; spatial variations 

NOTES: NO TABLES FOR PHALACROCORAX AURITUS

ABSTRACT: Flight feathers from 6 bird species at Clear Lake were analyzed to determine the 

extent and distribution of Hg contamination from an abandoned Hg mine and associated levels of 

14 other elements. Further samples were collected from adult and juvenile osprey (Pandion 

haliaetus), including juvenile osprey from 3 additional comparison sites; adult western grebes 

(Aechmophorus occidentalis); adult great blue herons (Ardea herodias); adult mallards (Anas 

platyrhynchos); adult turkey vultures (Cathartes aura); and juvenile double-crested cormorants 

(Phalacrocorax auritus). Samples were analyzed by a multielemental x-ray fluorescence 

method. The osprey from Clear Lake showed significantly elevated Hg concentrations relative 

to the comparison sites. Different species at Clear Lake had different Hg concentrations based 

on trophic status; osprey exhibited the highest Hg concentrations and the mallards showed the 

lowest. We quantified differences in elemental concentrations, including Hg, between adult and 

juvenile osprey from Clear Lake. Elements known to be nutrients, such as S and Zn, did not 

vary significantly among species or sites. Reproductive success of osprey at Clear Lake was 

monitored from 1992 to 1996 to determine if osprey reproduction was depressed. During this 5 

years, the breeding population grew from 10 to 20 nesting pairs and the average reproductive rate 

was 1.4 fledglings/nesting attempt. Although the osprey showed the highest Hg levels of any 

species sampled, their reproduction does not appear to be depressed. 

Calambokidis, John; Speich, Steven M.; Peard, John; Steiger, Gretchen H.; and Cubbage, James 

C. 1985. Biology of Puget Sound marine mammals and marine birds: Population health and 

evidence of pollution effects. NOAA Tech. Memo. NOS OMA 18. 170 pp. 

Rec #: 101 

KEYWORDS: effects; WA; USA; North America; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; 

great blue heron; Ardea herodias; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; egg; blood; liver; 

toxicology; reproductive success; eggshell thickness; abnormalities; parasites 

NOTES: NO CONTAMINANT TABLES 

ABSTRACT: The objective of the research was to determine whether detrimental effects 

possibly caused by toxic chemicals could be observed in Puget Sound marine mammals and 

marine birds. The study design was based on examination of a wide variety of indices of 

population and individual health and comparison of these indices from areas of suspected high 

contaminant levels (target areas) to those from areas of suspected low contaminant levels 

(reference areas) and to those reported by other researchers. Primary species considered here are 

harbor seal. Glaucous-winged Gull, Great Blue Heron, and Pigeon Guillemot; these species were 

chosen because they reside, feed, and breed in some of the most contaminated portions of Puget 

Sound. Three other mammal species (killer whale, harbor porpoise, and river otter) were chosen 

as secondary study species either because they seasonally occur in contaminated areas of Puget 

Sound or they were found through previous research to be experiencing problems that might be 

pollutant-related. 

Caldwell, C. A.; Arnold, M. A.; and Gould, W. R. 1999. Mercury distribution in blood, tissues, 

and feathers of double-crested cormorant nestlings from arid-lands reservoirs in south central 

New Mexico. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 36(4):456-461. 

Rec #: 442 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

54 

KEYWORDS: egg; blood; liver; muscle; feather; metals; Hg; double-crested cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax auritus; NM; USA; North America; spatial variations; bioaccumulation; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Eggs, blood, liver, muscle, and feathers were analyzed for concentrations of total 

mercury in double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) nestlings from two reservoirs in 

south central New Mexico. Total mercury concentrations among eggs, tissues, and feathers were 

not significantly correlated. Concentrations of total mercury averaged 0.40 μg/g in liver and 

0.18 μg/g in muscle tissues in both populations of nestlings. There were no significant changes 

in concentrations of total mercury in whole blood of nestlings collected 7-10 days and 17-22 

days posthatch in Caballo Reservoir (0.36 μg/g and 0.39 μg/g and 0.34 μg/g, respectively). Total 

mercury concentrations were similar for blood, muscle, and liver in nestlings for both reservoirs. 

Total mercury concentrations were higher in eggs and tail, primary, and secondary features from 

nestlings at Caballo Reservoir compared to Elephant Butte Reservoir. Although there were no 

differences in concentrations of total mercury in fishes between the two reservoirs, 

bioaccumulation and biomagnification was evident in planktivorous and piscivorous fishes. The 

data demonstrate that feather analysis may not be a good predictor of tissue burden in nestlings 

from regions of low contamination. 

Cameron, Marjorie and Weis, I. Michael. 1993. Organochlorine contaminants in the country 

food diet of the Belcher Island Inuit, Northwest Territories, Canada. Arctic. 46(1):42-48. 

Rec #: 198 

KEYWORDS: North America; Canada; Northwest Territories; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; 

HCHs; chlordanes; dieldrin; common eider; Somateria mollissima; carcass; biomagnification; 

spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: An initial assessment of the country food diet at the Belcher Islands' community 

of Sanikiluaq, Northwest Territories, was made by interviewing 16 families during May - July 

1989. Estimates of consumption per day were established over a two-week period for 10 of these 

families. This information was utilized along with previously published harvest data for the 

community to estimate country food consumption in grams/day and kg/year. Beluga 

(Delphinapterus leucas), ringed seal (Phoca hispida), arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), common 

eider (Somateria mollissima) and Canada goose (Branta canadensis) were found to be important 

components in the diet during this period. Results of analysis for organochlorine contaminants 

reveal that ringed seal fat and beluga muktuk (skin and fat layer) samples have the highest 

concentration of DDE and total PCBs among the country food species. Average DDE and total 

PCB values were 1504.6 μg/kg and 1283.4 μg/kg respectively in ringed seal fat and 184.3 μg/kg 

and 144.7 μg/kg respectively in beluga muktuk. Comparison of contaminants in seal fat indicates 

concentrations approximately two times higher in samples from the Belcher Islands than from 

sites in the Canadian Western Arctic, but lower than concentrations reported from various 

European sites. The daily consumption estimates in grams/day were used along with organic 

contaminant analysis data to calculate the estimated intake levels of 0.22 μg/kg body weight/day 

of total DDT and 0.15 μg/kg body weight/day of total PCBs during the study period. Although 

limited in sample size, studies such as this provide a framework from which to establish future 

consumption guidelines more applicable to arctic systems and native diets. 

Camphuysen, Kees C. J.; Barreveld, Hein; Dahlmann, Gerhard; and Van Franeker, Jan Andries. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

55 

1999. Seabirds in the North Sea demobilized and killed by polyisobutylene (C4H8)n (PIB). Mar. 

Pollut. Bull. 38(12):1171-1176. 

Rec #: 43 

KEYWORDS: effects; toxicology; common murre; Uria aalge; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; polyisobutylene; North Sea; Netherlands; Europe 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: This paper reports on a mass stranding of seabirds in the North Sea in December 

1998. Hundreds of birds were washed ashore alive in Zeeland (SW Netherlands), covered in a 

whitish, sticky substance, and were transported to a rehabilitation centre. About 10 days later, 

more (dead) casualties washed ashore further to the north on Texel and along the mainland coast, 

again covered in a glue-like substance. Common guillemots Uria aalge, northern fulmars 

Fulmarus glacialis and common scoters Melanitta nigra were the most numerous birds affected 

in this incident. Both strandings were temporarily (10 days) and geographically separated (ca. 

120 km apart), but were apparently caused by a single source of pollution. The meteorology at 

the time was consistent with the course of a single incident. At least 1100 seabirds were affected 

by this substance, soon identified as polyisobutylene (C4H8)n. PIB is known as a non-toxic, nonaggressive substance. Volunteers cleaning the birds in the rehabilitation centre reported serious 

discomfort and dizziness and the soft parts of the PIB-affected birds found dead (bill, eye, throat, 

feet, webs) appeared to dissolve in a few days time. Both effects cannot be attributed to PIB, and 

are therefore unexplained. Although the dumping of PIB in the marine environment is not 

explicitly prohibited under MARPOL, the effects on wildlife observed are enough to plead for 

counter-measures. 

Carlberg, G. E. and Böler, J. B. 1985. Determination of persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons and 

inorganic elements in samples from Svalbard. Senter for Industriforskning, Report No. 83/11/01-

1. 1-20. 

Rec #: 541 

NOTES: DO NOT HAVE 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; metals; Svalbard; Norway; Europe 

Champoux, Louise. 1993. Contamination et ecotxicologie de la faune dans la region d'une usine 

de pate blanchie au chlore a Lat Turque (Quebec). Technical Report Series No. 187. Canadian 

Wildl. Serv. St. Foy, PQ. 63 pp. 

Rec #: 552 

KEYWORDS: pulp mill; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; mirex; dieldrin; 

OCS; PCDDs; PCDFs; effects; toxicology; vitamin A; retinol; enzymes; thyroid hormones; 

porphyrin; EROD; reproductive success; Quebec; Canada; North America; egg; carcass; herring 

gull; Larus argentatus; hooded merganser; Lophodytes cucullatus; common merganser; Mergus 

merganser

ABSTRACT: Following the finding that dioxins and furans were present in the environment of 

bleached kraft pulp mills, a study was undertaken on the St. Maurice River in La Tuque. The 

objectives of this study were to document dioxin and furan bioaccumulation in piscivorous birds 

and mammals and to evaluate different biochemical bioindicators of wildlife health. The selected 

species were the Herring gull, the Hooded Merganser, the Common Merganser and the American 

Mink. Herring gull eggs and youngs were collected at two colonies, one contaminated and one 

control. Hooded and Common Merganser eggs were collected in nest boxes along the St. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

56 

Maurice River, while Common Merganser young were collected at two sites on the river, one 

upstream and one downstream of La Tuque. Mink were trapped around La Tuque and along the 

river. The sampled tissues were analysed for contaminants and vitamin A, hepatic enzymes, 

thyroid hormones and other biochemical biomarkers. 

Different contamination patterns in dioxins, furans and PCBs were observed between species. 

Herring gull eggs and young were weakly contaminated (Eggs: 24 ppt of dioxins, 7 ppt of furans, 

3,7 ppm of PCBs; youngs: 16 ppt of dioxins, 8 ppt of furans, 0,1 ppm of PCBs). Hooded and 

Common Merganser eggs were contaminated (50 and 129 ppt of dioxins, 108 and 374 ppt of 

furans, 0,4 and 13 ppm of PCBs, in the Hooded and the Common, respectively) , while Common 

Merganser youngs were contaminated with 2,3,7,8-TCDF (21 ppt). Some mink contained 

elevated levels of dioxins and furans (mean values, 91 ppt and 97 ppt). Herring gull eggs showed 

a significant difference in retinol/retinyl palmitate ratio between the two colonies. Herring gull 

youngs from the contaminated colony showed EROD induction, and significant differences in 

uroporphyrin, T4 and creatinin in comparison to the control colony. These results indicate that 

piscivorous aquatic birds from La Tuque area seem to be exposed to polyhalogenated aromatic 

hydrocarbons like dioxins and furans. However, these effects are relatively minor and do not 

permit identification of a direct causal link between contaminants and the observed effects, nor 

to predict health effects. At a medium or long term, some of the observed effects could lead to 

problems in metabolism, growth or reproduction. The reproductive success of the Herring gull 

seems acceptable. Levels of furans in Mergansers and mink are of concern. 

Chan, H. M. 1997. A review of environmental contaminant levels in traditional food in northern 

Canada. Proceedings of the 23rd Annual Aquatic Toxicity Workshop: October 7-9, 1996, 

Calgary, Alberta. Can. Tech. Rep. Fish. Aquat. Sci. 35-39. 

Rec #: 192 

KEYWORDS: review; organochlorines; PCBs; chlordanes; toxaphene; metals; Hg; Canada; 

Northwest Territories; Yukon; Quebec; North America 

ABSTRACT: The author conducted an extensive literature review on levels of environmental 

contaminants in northern Canada. The range of levels of four contaminants of major concern 

(chlordane, Hg, PCB and toxaphene) in 59 species of marine mammals, terrestrial mammals, 

birds, fish and plants are summarized. This data represents 58 % of the 101 species of fish, 

wildlife and plants mentioned in our dietary interviews conducted in the northern communities. 

Mathematic modeling of the distributions of the data showed that contaminant levels in most 

food groups are log-normally distributed and have a typical coefficient of variation of about 100 

%. An example of using the mathematical model for dietary exposure assessment is presented. 

With the current knowledge of environmental contaminant levels in the northern traditional food 

system, it may be feasible to conduct preliminary risk assessment of dietary exposure of 

environmental contaminants when some diet information for a community is available. 

Choi, J. W.; Matsuda, M.; Kawano, M.; Min, B. Y.; and Wakimoto, T. 2001. Accumulation 

profiles of persistent organochlorines in waterbirds from an estuary in Korea. Arch. Environ. 

Contam. Toxicol. 41:353-363. 

Rec #: 369 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; HCB; chlordanes; 

toxicology; TEQs; Korea; Asia; fat; black-necked grebe; Podiceps nigricollis; great knot; 

Calidris tenuirostris; sanderling; Crocethia alba; greenshank; Tringa nebularia; bar-tailed 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

57 

godwit; Limosa lapponica; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

common gull; Larus canus; black-tailed gull; Larus crassirostris; common tern; Sterna hirundo; 

little tern; Sterna albifrons; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Persistent organochlorine pollutants (POPs), such as polychlorinated dibenzo-pdioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), 

and organochlorine (OC) pesticides such as DDTs (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), HCHs 

(hexachlorocyclohexane isomers), CHLs (chlordane compounds) and HCB (hexachlorobenzene), 

were measured in subcutaneous fat of resident and migratory birds collected from the Nakdong 

River estuary (NRE) in Korea. Black-tailed gull, a resident bird from the NRE, contained greater 

concentrations of PCDD/Fs and PCBs than the migratory birds collected in the estuary. For 

example, mean concentrations of PCDD/Fs in black-tailed gull (395.5 pg/g fat weight) were 

higher than those in migratory birds, such as greenshank (198.3 pg/g fat weight), common gull 

(90.9 pg/g fat weight) black-headed gull (84.2 pg/g fat weight), and common tern (47.1 pg/g fat 

weight). However, concentrations of DDTs and/or HCHs were great in some migratory species, 

such as little tern (mean DDT 6,200 ng/g fat weight) and black-necked grebe (HCHs 475 ng/g fat 

weight). This suggested that contamination of PCDD/Fs and PCBs in resident gulls are due to 

intake of locally contaminated fish near the NRE. Elevated OC pesticide levels in migratory 

birds indicated that these birds have been exposed to DDTs and HCHs during their migration in 

Southeast Asian countries where chlorinated pesticides are still used. 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzop-dioxin equivalent (TEQs) were calculated using the toxic equivalency factors (TEFs) reported 

by World Health Organization in 1998. Four of the 2,3,7,8-substituted congeners of PCDD/Fs 

contributed over 90 % of the TEQs. 

Choi, Jae-Won; Kageyama, Takae; Matsuda, Muneaki; Kawano, Masahide; Min, Byung-Yoon; 

and Wakimoto, Tadaaki. 1998. PCDDs, PCDFs, and PCBs in avian species from Nakdong River 

estuary in Korea. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:43-46. 

Rec #: 371 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; toxicology; TEQs; Korea; Asia; fat; 

black-tailed gull; Larus crassirostris; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; bar-tailed godwit; 

Limosa lapponica; common gull; Larus canus; black-necked grebe; Podiceps nigricollis; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; great knot; Calidris tenuirostris; greenshank; Tringa nebularia; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; sanderling; Crocethia alba; little tern; Sterna albifrons

ABSTRACT: The PCDD/F and PCB levels were determined in avian species collected from the 

Nakdong River estuary, Korea. There were no significant differences in PCDD/DF levels 

between the resident and migratory species. The PCB levels in residents (black-tailed gull, 

BTG) ranged from 6700-27,000 ng/g (fat weight). Although the PCB concentrations of the 

herring gulls were the highest among the migratory species, the concentrations in the herring gull 

was lower than in the resident BTG. 4-6 Chlorinated PCDD/F congeners were persistent, and 

OCDD, OCDF, and non-2,3,7,8-substituted congeners were at most in small quantities detected 

in most of the species analyzed. In most of the species, PCDF levels were higher than PCDDs. 

Combustion processes and PCB impurities were likely to be partly responsible for the elevation 

of PCDFs in the resident and migratory birds. There were no critical levels of PCDD/Fs 

observed to generate acute toxicity in wild birds. 

Christopher, S. J.; Vander Pol, S. S.; Pugh, R. S.; Day, R. D.; and Becker, P. R. 2002. 

Determination of mercury in the eggs of common murres (Uria aalge) for the seabird tissue 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

58 

archival and monitoring project. J. Anal. At. Spectrom. 17(8):780-785. 

Rec #: 497 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; egg; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; 

AK; USA; North America; Gulf of Alaska; Bering Sea; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: An analytical method using isotope dilution cold vapor inductively coupled 

plasma mass spectrometry (ID-CV-ICPMS) was developed for the detection of total Hg in the 

eggs of seabirds. Components including error magnification, verification of method accuracy 

and assignment of analytical uncertainty are presented in the context of collecting Hg data for 

single sample aliquots. 51 Egg samples collected from common murre (Uria aalge) colonies on 

Little Diomede and Saint George Islands in the Bering Sea and East Amatuli and Saint Lazaria 

Islands in the Gulf of Alaska yielded Hg mass fraction values ranging from approximately 0.010 

μg g-1 to 0.360 μg g-1. Relative expanded uncertainties for the individual detections ranged from 

1.2 % to 4.4 %. A one-way analysis of variance including pairwise comparisons across the 

colonies showed that Hg levels in eggs collected from the Gulf of Alaska colonies were 

significantly higher than their counterparts in the Bering Sea. Hg data from each colony were 

normally distributed, suggesting a ubiquitous regional deposition of Hg and corresponding 

incorporation into local food webs. 

Clark, T. P. and Norstrom, R. J. 1986. Seasonal changes in lipid and diet: Effect on contaminant 

loading assessment from herring gull egg residue levels. IAGLR-86 Program. International 

Association for Great Lakes Research 29th Conference, May 26-29, 1986. 29 pp. 

Rec #: 222 

KEYWORDS: bioaccumulation; Great Lakes; North America; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

egg; organochlorines; DDTs; mirex; dieldrin 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: A large data base exists on organochlorine residue levels in Herring Gulls (Larus 

argentatus) in the Great Lakes. A mathematical model of bioaccumulation has been developed to 

analyse trends in loadings to the Great Lakes from these data. In this paper the authors present an 

analysis of the effect of lipid levels and several proposed feeding regimes on contaminant levels 

in eggs and adult females using the bioaccumulation model, and compare the results to field 

studies. A scenario in which aquatic feeding in February and March was replaced by a nonaquatic food source resulted in the following reduction in egg contaminant levels averaged over a 

3 years period: mirex, 32 %, dieldrin, 53 %, DDD, 70 %. Non-aquatic diet in June-July resulted 

in the following reductions: mirex, 10 %; dieldrin, 4 %; DDD, 0 %. 

Clark, T. P.; Norstrom, R. J.; Fox, G. A.; and Won, H. T. 1987. Dynamics of organochlorine 

compounds in herring gulls (Larus argentatus): A two-compartment model and data for ten 

compounds. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 6(7):547-559. 

Rec #: 227 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; HCHs; OCS; dieldrin; mirex; blood; 

fat; pharmacokinetics; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Newfoundland; Canada; Great Lakes; 

North America; dosing study; body burden 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A two-compartment open model using plasma and seasonally variable lipid 

compartments was developed and validated for several organochlorines in herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus). Plasma clearance rate constants k'pc, L multiplied by kg-1 multiplied by d-1, plasma: 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

59 

whole-body lipid partition coefficients Kpf and compartment sizes for lipid and plasma were 

obtained for juvenile gulls injected i.p. with a mixture of p,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDE, 

hexachlorobenzene, oxychlordane, gamma -hexachlorocyclohexane, trans-chlordane, 

octachlorostyrene, dieldrin, mirex and photomirex. Concentrations in plasma were determined at 

11 time points during the 239-d study, and whole-body contaminant burdens and lipid weights 

were determined at 3 time points. Mean Kpf for p,p'-DDD and p,p'-DDE (0.0038 plus or minus 

0.0002) was different from that of the other organochlorines (0.0058 plus or minus 0.0005, n = 

7). 

Clausen, Jørgen and Berg, Ole. 1975. The content of polychlorinated hydrocarbons in Arctic 

ecosystems. Pure. Appl. Chem. 42:223-232. 

Rec #: 525 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; fat; Greenland; North America; 

Somateria mollissima; common eider; Somateria spectabilis; king eider; Histrionicus 

histrionicus; harlequin duck; Clangula hyemalis; long-tailed duck; Calidris maritima; purple 

sandpiper; Uria lomvia; thick-billed murre; Phalacrocorax carbo; cormorant; Lagopus mutus; 

rock ptarmigan; Corvus corax; common raven; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The content of polychlorinated hydrocarbons was detected in fat tissue of Arctic 

birds and mammals. Among the birds the highest amounts of DDE [72-55-9] and 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were found in the cormorant and raven and among the 

mammals the polar bear contained highest levels of PCB. The mammals all contained relatively 

low amounts of DDE compared with the birds. Female Eskimos had a PCB content of fat tissue 

equal to that in the fat tissue of mammals, but lower than that in birds. 

Cleemann, M; Riget, F; Paulsen, G. B; and Dietz, R. 2000. Organochlorines in Greenland 

glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) and Icelandic gulls (Larus glaucoides). Sci. Total Environ. 

245:117-130. 

Rec #: 67 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCHs; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; Greenland; North 

America; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Iceland gull; Larus glaucoides; liver; age variations; 

gender differences; bioaccumulation; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus ) and Icelandic gulls (Larus glaucoides) were 

sampled in 1994 from four different areas in Greenland, three on the west coast and one on the 

east coast. Livers of 93 glaucous gulls and seven Icelandic gulls were analysed for 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs, IUPAC numbers 28, 31, 52, 101, 105, 118, 138, 153, 156 and 

180), DDTs (p,p'-DDE, p,p'-DDD, p,p'-DDT), hexachlorocyclohexanes (α-,β - and γ-HCH), 

hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and trans-nonachlor (TNC). The overall geometric means of the 

concentrations found in glaucous gull liver were for ΣPCBs 388 (range 20-5557), for ΣDDTs 

363 (17-8604), ΣHCHs 7.4 (1-53), HCB 47 (4-594) and trans-nonachlor 19 (3-187) μg kg-1 wet 

weight, respectively. The geometric means of concentrations in Icelandic gull liver were for 

ΣPCBs 112 (24Ż435), for ΣDDTs 95 (25Ż298), ΣHCHs 2.9 (1.4Ż5.2), HCB 22 (8Ż58) and 

trans-nonachlor 5.1 (2.4Ż8.6) μg kg-1 wet weight, respectively. Significantly (P=0.05) higher 

concentrations of PCBs, DDTs and HCHs were found in glaucous gulls at Ittoqqortoormiit at the 

east coast than in gulls from Qeqertarsuaq at the west coast of Greenland. This tendency was also 

seen for HCB and trans-nonachlor, but the differences were not statistically significant (P=0.05). 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

60 

A decreasing trend in organochlorine concentrations followed the East Greenland Current, 

flowing from north to south down the east coast and to the north on the west coast. Gulls taken 

from the most northerly sampling area of the west coast, however, showed slightly higher 

concentrations than those from the central west coast. There appeared to be a tendency for higher 

concentrations to be found in males than females, and in adults compared to young glaucous 

gulls, but the differences were not statistically significant (P=0.05). The concentration ranges 

found in gulls from Greenland were similar to those reported previously for gulls from northern 

Norway and Russia. A principal component analysis revealed no obvious link between the 

presence of higher chlorinated PCBs and higher PCB concentrations in glaucous gulls. 

Significantly higher proportions of higher chlorinated PCBs were found in glaucous gulls than in 

Icelandic gulls, and in adult glaucous gulls compared to young gulls of 1-2 calendar years. As no 

such difference was found between female and male gulls it seems that PCBs of all degrees of 

chlorination may be passed equally well from mother to offspring. 

Cooke, A. S. 1979. Egg shell characteristics of gannets Sula bassana, shags Phalacrocorax 

aristotelis and great black-backed gulls Larus marinus exposed to DDE and other environmental 

pollutants. Environ. Pollut. 19(1):47-65. 

Rec #: 390 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; PCBs; egg; eggshell thickness; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; gannet; Sula bassana; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; Great 

Britain; Europe; effects 

ABSTRACT: Structure, strength and chemical composition of eggshells of gannets, shags , and 

great black-backed gulls were studied in relation to egg residues of DDE (I) [72-55-9]. For each 

species, eggs that were highly contaminated with I tended to have thin shells. For the gannet, 

shell thinning was due to loss of the vaterite cover. For the shag, cover loss was again 

considerable, but the true shell was also reduced in thickness. Gull shells do not have a cover, 

and for the great black-backed gull most of the shell thinning was due to a reduced palisade 

layer. The different types of structural defects observed in the shells of these and other species 

resulted from a single biochemical lesion such as enzyme inhibition in shell gland tissue. As the 

thickness of the shell decreased, the shell strength for the gannet and shag did not decrease as 

markedly as for the gull and other species. Partial loss of cover had little effect on strength 

compared with loss of true shell. Had the cover been entirely missing, strength would have been 

seriously affected. 

Coulson, J. C.; Deans, I. R.; Potts, G. R.; Robinson, J.; and Crabtree, A. N. 1972. Changes in 

organochlorine contamination of the marine environment of Eastern Britain monitored by shag 

eggs. Nature. 236(5348):454-456. 

Rec #: 395 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; egg; Great 

Britain; Europe; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: The concentrations of dieldrin (I) [60-57-1] and 1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(pchlorophenyl)-ethylene (p,p'-DDE) [72-55-9] in shag eggs at eastern Britain in years between 

1964 and 1971 were measured, and the maximum concentration of I and p,p'-DDE occurred in 

1966 and 1967-8, respectfully. Between 1966 and 1971 the average concentration of I decreased 

by .sim.66 %. A significant decline of p,p'-DDE concentration occurred by 1969. Between 1968 

and 1971 the mean concentration of p,p'-DDE decreased by .sim.47 %. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

61 

Custer, T. W.; Custer, C. M.; Hines, R. K.; Stromborg, K. L.; Allen, P. D.; Melancon, M. J.; and 

Henshel, D. S. 2001. Organochlorine contaminants and biomarker response in double-crested 

cormorants nesting in Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Wisconsin, USA. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 40(1):89-100. 

Rec #: 398 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; organochlorines; DDTs; 

PCBs; PCDDs; chlordanes; HCB; mirex; toxaphene; toxicology; EROD; TEQs; egg; carcass; 

liver; Great Lakes; WI; MN; SD; USA; North America; effects; eggshell thickness; temporal 

trends; age variations; bioaccumulation; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) eggs at pipping and sibling 

10-day-old chicks were collected from 2 colonies in Green Bay, WI, 1 colony in Lake Michigan, 

WI and reference colonies in South Dakota and Minnesota. Egg contents and chicks were 

analyzed for organochlorine contaminants including polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congeners. 

Livers of embryos and chicks were assayed for hepatic microsomal ethoxyresorufin-Odealkylase (EROD) activity. Eggshell thickness and the physical dimensions of embryo brains 

were measured. Concentrations of organochlorines, including p,p'-DDE (p,p'-

dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene), PCBs, and PCB congeners were generally an order of 

magnitude higher in eggs and chicks from Wisconsin than from reference locations. Total PCBs 

averaged 10-13 μg/g wet weight in eggs from 3 Wisconsin colonies compared to 0.9 μg/g PCBs 

from reference locations. Double-crested cormorant chicks accumulated on average 33-66 μg 

PCBs/day and 7-12 μg p,p'-DDE/day in the Wisconsin colonies compared to 0 μg PCBs/day and 

1 μg p,p'-DDE/day in the reference colonies. At pipping, EROD activity in the livers of 

cormorant embryos was significantly higher in the Wisconsin colonies and significantly 

correlated with PCBs and the toxic equivalent (TEQs) of aryl hydrocarbon-active PCB congeners 

relative to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. However, in 10-day-old chicks, EROD activity 

was not consistently different among colonies and was not correlated with PCBs or TEQs. A 

significant negative relationship between embryo brain asymmetry and the size of the egg 

suggested that physical constraint might be an important factor influencing the response of this 

bioindicator. Thinner eggshells in 2 colonies located near Door County, Wisconsin suggested 

that historic p,p'-DDE residues associated with orchards are still an important source of p,p'-DDE 

in the local environment. 

Custer, Thomas W.; Custer, Christine M.; Hines, Randy K.; Gutreuter, Steve; Stromborg, 

Kenneth L.; Allen, P. David; and Melancon, Mark J. 1999. Organochlorine contaminants and 

reproductive success of double-crested cormorants from Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 18(6):1209-1217. 

Rec #: 399 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; mirex; HCB; eggshell 

thickness; toxicology; EROD; egg; carcass; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

reproductive success; Great Lakes; WI; USA; North America; reproductive success; effects; 

abnormalities 

ABSTRACT: In 1994 and 1995, nesting success of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax 

auritus) was measured at Cat Island, in southern Green Bay, Lake Michigan, Wisconsin, USA. 

Sample eggs at pipping and unhatched eggs were collected and analyzed for organochlorines 

(including total polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs] and DDE), hepatic microsomal 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

62 

ethoxyresorufin-O-dealkylase (EROD) activity in embryos, and eggshell thickness. Of 1,570 

eggs laid, 32 % did not hatch and 0.4 % had deformed embryos. Of 632 chicks monitored from 

hatching to 12 days of age, 9 % were missing or found dead; no deformities were observed. The 

PCB concentrations in sample eggs from clutches with deformed embryos (mean = 10.2 μg/g 

wet weight) and dead embryos (11.4 μg/g) were not significantly higher than concentrations in 

sample eggs from nests where all eggs hatched (12.1 μg/g). A logistic regression of hatching 

success vs. DDE, dieldrin, and PCB concentrations in sibling eggs identified DDE and not 

dieldrin or PCBs as a significant risk factor. A logistic regression of hatching success vs. DDE 

and eggshell thickness implicated DDE and not eggshell thickness as a significant risk factor. 

Even though the insecticide DDT was banned in the early 1970s. We suggest that DDE 

concentrations in double-crested cormorant eggs in Green Bay are still having an effect on 

reproduction in this species. 

Custer, Thomas W.; Custer, Christine. M.; and Stromborg, Kenneth L. 1997. Distribution of 

organochlorine contaminants in double-crested cormorant eggs and sibling embryos. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 16(8):1646-1649. 

Rec #: 27 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; dieldrin; carcass; egg; embryo; 

bioaccumulation; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; WI; USA; North America; 

Great Lakes 

ABSTRACT: Double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) fresh eggs and sibling 

embryos at pipping were collected from a polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)-contaminated colony 

in Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. Egg contents were analyzed for organochlorine (OC) 

contaminants, including 15 arylhydrocarbon-active PCB congeners. In order to determine the 

significance of tissue removal on the subsequent estimate of contaminant burden, embryos were 

decapitated and the heads, yolk sac, liver, fecal sac (allantois), and carcass remainder were 

analyzed separately. The distribution of contaminant concentration in the embryos was yolk sac 

> liver > carcass > head > fecal sac. The distribution of contaminant mass in the embryos was 

yolk sac > carcass > liver > head > fecal sac. For example, mass of total PCBs (TPCB) was yolk 

sac = 58 %, carcass = 31 %, liver = 5 %, head = 3 %, and fecal sac = 1 %. Eighteen additional 

OCs, including 13 PCB congeners, had distribution patterns similar to that of TPCB 

concentration and mass. Excluding the head of the embryo from the chemical analysis 

overestimated TPCB concentrations by 15 % (16 vs 14 μg/g). In contrast, excluding the liver 

from the chemical analysis underestimated TPCB concentration by only 4 % (13.5 vs 14 μg/g). 

Mean concentrations of OCs were not significantly different between fresh eggs and sibling 

embryos. 

Daelemans, F. F.; Mehlum, F.; and Schepens, P. J. C. 1992. Polychlorinated biphenyls in two 

species of Arctic seabirds from the Svalbard area. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 48(6):828-

834. 

Rec #: 76 

KEYWORDS: Svalbard; Norway; Europe; biomagnification; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; 

organochlorines; PCBs; toxicology; AHH; EROD; liver; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; 

glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated hydrocarbons and more in particular polychlorinated biphenyls 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

63 

(PCBs) seem to be one of the most dangerous pollutants of the Arctic environment. The 

archipelago of Svalbard in the European Arctic is an area with only minor local industrial 

activities, and the anthropogenic pollution recorded in the area is assumed to be mainly of 

foreign origin. The wildlife in Svalbard is rich in numbers and large populations of seabirds and 

marine mammals constitute major parts of the fauna. In the Glaucous Gull, Larus hyperboreus, 

especially high levels of PCBs have been recorded. This species partly acts as a predator and 

during the breeding season it is preying upon other seabird's eggs and chicks, and has similar 

ecological function as birds of prey in other places. Because of bioaccumulation of 

organochlorines one would suspect to find high levels of these substances in this species, which 

is the main avian predator in the Svalbard area. 

Dale, I. M.; Baxter, M. S.; Bogan, J. A.; and Bourne, W. R. P. 1973. Mercury in seabirds. Mar. 

Pollut. Bull. 4(5):77-75. 

Rec #: 538 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; liver; Great Britain; Europe; common murre; Uria aalge; redbreasted merganser; Mergus serrator; common eider; Somateria mollissima; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of mercury in the liver of birds around the British coast vary from 

very low levels of 0.7 ppm in a young guillemot to 122 ppm in a redbreasted merganser. Eiders 

which feed on mussels known to accumulate mercury also have high concentrations of this 

pollutant. 

Davis, Jay A.; Fry, D. Michael; and Wilson, Barry W. 1997. Hepatic ethoxyresorufin-Odeethylase activity and inducibility in wild populations of double-crested cormorants 

(Phalacrocorax auritus). Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 16(7):1441-1449. 

Rec #: 444 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; liver; CA; OR; USA; North 

America; toxicology; EROD; organochlorines; PCDDs; spatial variations 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Microplate fluorometric techniques were used to measure ethoxyresorufin Odeethylase (EROD) activity in hepatic microsomes and primary hepatocyte cultures from 

individual wild double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) embryos. Embryos were 

collected in 1993 and 1994 from Humboldt Bay and San Francisco Bay (CA, USA) and a 

reference site in coastal Oregon (USA). Median microsomal EROD activities in embryos 

collected from San Francisco Bay (in both 1993 and 1994) and from Humboldt Bay (1994) were 

four- to eightfold higher than the reference site median (Kruskal-Wallis). This degree of 

induction suggests that cormorant embryos in the two California locations were exposed to 

concentrations of dioxin-like compounds that are at the threshold for toxic effects in this species. 

Substantial variation in the EROD response in cultured hepatocytes was observed between 

individuals, populations, and the two bird species tested (cormorants and chickens [Gallus 

gallus]). Although most of the cormorant individuals displayed a consistent dose-response 

profile, a few individuals were uninducible, showing no appreciable increase over basal activity 

with increasing dose of inducer. Composite dose-response curves for two cormorant colonies 

appeared to be divergent in spite of small sample sizes, indicating that inducibility can also vary 

at the population level. These observations suggest that considerable variability in pollutant 

metabolism and sensitivity associated with single enzyme systems may exist within wild 

populations and species. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

64 

Day, Robert H.; Murphy, Stephen M.; Wiens, John A.; Hayward, Gregory D.; Harner, E. James; 

and Smith, Louise N. 1997. Effects of the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill on habitat use by birds in 

Prince William Sound, Alaska. Ecol. Appl. 7(2):593-613. 

Rec #: 250 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; oil; effects; common loon; Gavia immer; horned 

grebe; Podiceps auritus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps grisegena; fork-tailed storm-petrel; 

Oceanodroma furcata; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; pelagic cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax pelagicus; red-faced cormorant; Phalacrocorax urile; great blue heron; Ardea 

herodias; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; green-winged teal; Anas crecca; mallard; Anas 

platyrhynchos; American wigeon; Anas americana; harlequin duck; Histrionicus histrionicus; 

long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; surf scoter; Melanitta 

perspicillata; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; common goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; 

Barrow's goldeneye; Bucephala islandica; bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; common merganser; 

Mergus merganser; red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; bald eagle; Haliaeetus 

leucocephalus; black oystercatcher; Haematopus bachmani; wandering tattler; Heteroscelus 

incanus; spotted sandpiper; Actitis macularia; red-necked phalarope; Phalaropus lobatus; 

pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius pomarinus; common gull; Larus canus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 

Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; common murre; Uria aalge; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus 

columba; marbled murrelet; Brachyramphus marmoratus; tufted puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; 

belted kingfisher; Ceryle alcyon; Steller's jay; Cyanocitta stelleri; black-billed magpie; Pica 

pica; northwestern crow; Corvus caurinus; common raven; Corvus corax

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Oil spills may affect species through direct effects on population size and 

structure and direct and indirect (toxicological) effects on reproduction. Spill effects on the 

habitats these organisms occupy have received less attention, but they are no less important. For 

2.5 years following the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Prince William Sound, Alaska, we studied the 

use of oil-affected habitats by 42 species of marine-oriented birds. On 11 survey cruises, we 

surveyed bays that had received different levels of initial oiling. We related the abundance of 

individual species in the bays to the oiling gradient, using regression models that included habitat 

measures to control for variations among the sites in features other than oiling level. We defined 

a spill-induced impact as a statistically significant relationship between the abundance of a 

species and values along the oiling gradient, after accounting for the effects of variations in 

habitat features. We used among-year comparisons of regressions between oiling levels and 

abundance, controlled for season, to assess recovery. We concluded that recovery from a spillinduced impact had occurred when we no longer could detect a significant relationship between a 

species' abundance and oiling levels. Overall, 23 (55 %) of the 42 species exhibited no initial 

negative impacts on their use of oil-affected habitats. Of the 19 species that did exhibit negative 

impacts, 13 (68 %) showed evidence of recovery within 2.5 years (the final survey in 1991). Six 

species (Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Barrow's Goldeneye, Bufflehead, Mew Gull, and 

Northwestern Crow) showed no clear evidence of recovery by our final survey. The proportion 

of species recorded on individual surveys that exhibited negative impacts at that time declined 

over the study, from 54 % on the first survey after the spill in 1989 to 10 % in late 1991. A 

principal components analysis revealed extensive ecological overlap between species that were 

negatively impacted in their use of oil-affected habitats and those that were not. The six species 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

65 

that had not recovered by late 1991 tended to be intertidal feeders and residents, but these traits 

also characterized some species that did not exhibit initial impacts and some species that 

subsequently recovered from impacts. We detected no obvious ecological differences between 

species that suffered spill impacts on habitat use and those that apparently were not affected, or 

between impacted species that later recovered in their use of habitats and species that had not yet 

recovered. These results indicate that the Exxon Valdez oil spill had clear initial negative 

impacts on habitat use by nearly half of the species examined, suggesting substantial initial 

effects on habitat suitability for these species. These impacts persisted for <2.5 years for most 

affected species. This rate of recovery in habitat use parallels the rapid recovery (usually <2 

years) documented for other oil-affected communities (e.g., intertidal invertebrates, fishes, and 

birds) that have been studied in Alaska and elsewhere. 

Day, Robert H.; Murphy, Stephen M.; Wiens, John A.; Hayward, Gregory D.; Harner, E. James; 

and Smith, Louise N. 1995. Use of oil-affected habitats by birds after the Exxon Valdez oil spill. 

In: Wells, P.G.; Butler, J.N.; Hughes, J.S. (Eds.). Exxon Valdez Oil Spill: Fate and Effects in 

Alaskan Waters. Philadelphia, PA: American Society for Testing and Materials. 726-761. 

Rec #: 247 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; oil; effects; common loon; Gavia immer; yellowbilled loon; Gavia adamsii; horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps 

grisegena; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; fork-tailed 

storm-petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; pelagic 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; red-faced cormorant; Phalacrocorax urile; great blue 

heron; Ardea herodias; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; green-winged teal; Anas crecca; 

mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; American wigeon; Anas americana; ring-necked duck; Aythya 

collaris; harlequin duck; Histrionicus histrionicus; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; black 

scoter; Melanitta nigra; surf scoter; Melanitta perspicillata; white-winged scoter; Melanitta 

fusca; common goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; Barrow's 

goldeneye; Bucephala islandica; common merganser; Mergus merganser; red-breasted 

merganser; Mergus serrator; ruddy duck; Oxyura jamaicensis; bald eagle; Haliaeetus 

leucocephalus; sharp-shinned hawk; Accipiter striatus; black oystercatcher; Haematopus 

bachmani; wandering tattler; Heteroscelus incanus; spotted sandpiper; Actitis macularia; least 

sandpiper; Calidris minutilla; red-necked phalarope; Phalaropus lobatus; pomarine jaeger; 

Stercorarius pomarinus; common gull; Larus canus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Iceland gull; 

Larus glaucoides; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; 

black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; common murre; Uria 

aalge; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; marbled murrelet; Brachyramphus marmoratus; 

ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; tufted 

puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; horned puffin; Fratercula corniculata; belted kingfisher; Ceryle 

alcyon; Steller's jay; Cyanocitta stelleri; black-billed magpie; Pica pica; northwestern crow; 

Corvus caurinus; common raven; Corvus corax

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on the use of oilaffected habitats by birds during 1989-1991. We measured densities of birds in bays that had 

been subjected to various levels of oiling from the spill during survey cruises that were 

conducted throughout the year in Prince William Sound (PWS) and during summer along the 

Kenai Peninsula. Overall, 23 of 42 (55 %) species in PWS and 22 of 34 (65 %) species on the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

66 

Kenai showed no evidence of oiling impacts on their use of habitats. Most species that did show 

initial negative impacts had recovered by late summer 1991 when our study concluded, although 

6 of the 19 species initially impacted in PWS and 6 of the 12 species initially impacted along the 

Kenai did not exhibit clear signs of recovery by this time. A Principal Components Analysis of 

species examined from PWS revealed extensive overlap in ecological attributes among species 

that were and were not negatively impacted in their use of oil-affected habitats. Species that did 

not show clear evidence of recovery tended to be intertidal feeders and residents of PWS, but 

other ecologically similar species evidenced either no initial impacts or rapid recovery. These 

similarities suggest that the prognosis is good for the species for which we were unable to 

document recovery in habitat use. Our findings, together with the rapid rates of recovery in 

habitat features reported in other studies, suggested that impacts of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on 

avian use of oil-affected habitats generally were not persistent. 

De Voogt, Pim; Van Raat, Patrick; Rozemeijer, Marcellino; and Green, Nick. 1996. 

Methylsulfonyl PCBs in cormorant chicks from the Netherlands. Organohalogen Compounds. 

28:517-521. 

Rec #: 445 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; fat; 

Netherlands; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Methylsulfonyl-polychlorinated biphenyls (MeSO2-PCBs) and PCBs were 

investigated in adipose tissue of cormorant chicks from 2 colonies [Biesbosch (BB), Brede Water 

(BW)] in the Netherlands. Levels of total PCBs (sum of 36 congeners) in BW and BB were 11 

and 58 μg/g (lipid weight), respectively. In fish regurgitated by adult birds the sum of 6 

congeners was 6 and 30 μg/g in BW and BB, respectively. PCB congener patterns reveal that 

lower chlorinated PCBs were reduced in eggs and hatchlings as compared to regurgitated food. 

The 3- and 4-MeSO2-metabolites (I and II) of PCB 49, 87, 101, 141, and 149 and the 4-MeSO2 

of PCB 132 were analyzed in the adipose tissue from cormorant chicks. Total sum of MeSO2-

PCB concentration (11 congeners) amounted to 30 and 70 ng/g in BW and BB, respectively. 

The most abundant metabolite was the II of PCB 149. The total concentration of I and II of PCB 

149 was between 20 and 50 % of their parent compound PCB 149. For PCB 149 the 

concentration of the II predominated its I isomer. For PCB 87 and 101 para- and meta-isomer 

abundance was equal, whereas for PCB 49 and 141 the meta-isomer predominated. The ratio of 

total MeSO2-PCBs to total PCBs was <0.3 %. 

Debacker, V.; Eppe, G.; Massart, A.-C.; Xhrouet, C.; Jauniaux, T.; Huart, P.; Hauteclair, P.; 

Bouquegneau, J.-M.; and De Pauw, E. 2003. Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and 

dibenzofurans in livers of an Atlantic seabird, the common guillemot Uria aalge: Influence of the 

general body condition. Organohalogen Compounds. 64:443-446. 

Rec #: 492 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; toxicology; TEQs; liver; common murre; 

Uria aalge; Belgium; Brittany; Europe; effects; oil; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The tissue distribution of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in 

livers of the Atlantic seabird Uria aalge was studied considering the robustness of animals. 

Male guillemots washed ashore along the Belgian coast and after an oil spill off the Brittany 

coasts were examined. Increased levels of both PCDD and PCDF congeners (3- and 5-fold, 

respectively) were detected in the livers of the Belgian guillemots compared to their Brittany 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

67 

counterparts. Increased levels of PCDD and PCDF were found parallel to increasing cachectic 

conditions. Levels of dioxin congeners were higher in severely debilitated birds. 

Debacker, V.; Holsbeek, L.; Tapia, G.; Gobert, S.; Joiris, C. R.; Jauniaux, T.; Coignoul, F.; and 

Bouquegneau, J.-M. 1997. Ecotoxicological and pathological studies of common guillemots Uria 

aalge beached on the Belgian coast during six successive wintering periods (1989-90 to 1994-

95). Dis. Aquat. Org. 29(3):159-168. 

Rec #: 39 

KEYWORDS: effects; organochlorines; PCBs; metals; Cu; Zn; Fe; Cd; Hg; organometallics; 

organic Hg; muscle; liver; kidney; Uria aalge; common murre; Belgium; Europe; biomarkers; 

seasonal variations; histopathology 

ABSTRACT: During 6 successive wintering periods, 727 common guillemots U. aalge were 

recovered from Belgian beaches. One-third of the birds were already dead; the rest passed 

through rehabilitation centers where they eventually died. All birds were monitored for general 

condition (body mass, fat reserves), eventual status of oiling and pathological changes (cachexia, 

acute hemorrhagic gastroenteropathy); 339 birds were sampled for trace metals (total and organic 

Hg, Cu, Zn, Fe, Cd) and PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl) analysis. Oiling is still a major cause 

of death for wintering pelagic seabirds: half of the birds showed signs of external or internal 

oiling, probably a still greater number of oiled birds never reach the shores. Although a low 

body mass can be considered a normal winter condition for wintering guillemots, pathological 

results showed that three-quarters of the studied animals were in a state of cachexia with 

emaciated pectoral muscle and lowered muscle lipid content. Elevated levels of Cu, Zn, Hg, and 

PCBs were linked to the state of cachexia and may well represent an additional stress factor 

leading to the debilitation and death of part of the wintering guillemot population. 

Debacker, V.; Jauniaux, T.; Coignoul, F.; and Bouquegneau, J.-M. 2000. Heavy metals 

contamination and body condition of wintering guillemots (Uria aalge) at the Belgian coast from 

1993 to 1998. Environ. Res. 84(3):310-317. 

Rec #: 342 

KEYWORDS: metals; Zn; Cu; Fe; Cd; Belgium; Europe; common murre; Uria aalge; liver; 

kidney; muscle; effects; toxicology 

ABSTRACT: A sample of 166 common guillemots (Uria aalge ) recovered from Belgian 

beaches during five wintering seasons, from 1993-1994 to 1997-1998, were examined. At 

necropsy, postmortem examination including body mass, fat reserves, presence or not of 

intestinal contents, eventual status of oiling, and pathological changes (cachexia, acute 

hemorrhagic gastroenteropathy (GEAH)) was attributed to each individual. Mild to severe 

cachexia, a pathology characterized by moderate to severe atrophy of the pectoral muscle as well 

as reduced amounts or absence of subcutaneous and/or abdominal fat, was observed for most 

specimens (85.8 %). Heavy metal analyses (Cu, Zn, Fe, Cd, Ni, Cr, and Pb) of the tissues 

(typically liver, kidney, and pectoral muscle) were performed, and total lipids were determined 

(liver and pectoral muscle). The guillemots collected at the Belgian coast exhibited higher Cu 

and Zn concentrations compared to individuals collected in more preserved areas of the North 

Sea such as the northern colonies. A general decrease of their total body mass as well as liver, 

kidney, and pectoral muscle mass was associated to increasing cachexia severity. Moreover, 

significantly increasing heavy metal levels (Cu and Zn) in the tissues as well as depleted muscle 

lipid contents were observed parallel to increasing cachexia severity. On the contrary the organs' 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

68 

total metal burden barely correlates to this status. These observations tend to indicate a general 

redistribution of heavy metals within the organs as a result of prolonged starvation and protein 

catabolism (cachectic status). Such a redistribution could well be an additional stress to birds 

already experiencing stressful conditions (starvation, oiling). 

Debacker, V.; Rutten, A.; Jauniaux, T.; Daemers, C.; and Bouquegneau, J-M. 2001. Combined 

effects of experimental heavy-metal contamination (Cu, Zn, and CH3Hg) and starvation on 

quail's body condition: parallelism with a wild common guillemot (Uria aalge) population found 

stranded at the Belgian coast. Biological Trace Element Research. 82(1-3):87-107. 

Rec #: 498 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cu; Zn; organometallics; organic Hg; Japanese quail; Coturnix coturnix; 

common murre; Uria aalge; Belgium; Europe; liver; kidney; muscle; dosing study; effects; 

toxicology 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Combined effects of heavy-metal contamination (Cu, Zn, and CH3Hg) and 

starvation were tested on common quails (Coturnix coturnix japonica) and used as a model for 

comparison with a wild common guillemot (Uria aalge) population found stranded at the 

Belgian coast. Appropriate heavy-metal levels were given to the quails to obtain concentrations 

similar to those found in the seabird's tissues. The contaminated animals were then starved for 4 

d to simulate the evident malnutrition symptoms observed at the guillemot's level. In such 

conditions, food intake and total body weight are shown to decrease in contaminated individuals 

with simultaneous significant hepatic and renal increase of the heavy-metal concentrations. Like 

guillemots, higher heavy-metal levels were observed in those contaminated quails that had also 

developed a cachectic status characterized by a general atrophy of their pectoral muscle and 

complete absence of s.c. and(or) abdominal fat depots. Although likely the result of a general 

protein catabolism during starvation, it is suggested that these higher metal levels could as well 

enhance a general muscle wasting process (cachectic status). 

Debacker, V.; Schiettecatte, L.-S.; Jauniaux, T.; and Bouquegneau, J.-M. 2001. Influence of age, 

sex and body condition on zinc, copper, cadmium and metallothioneins in common guillemots 

(Uria aalge) stranded at the Belgian coast. Mar. Environ. Res. 52(5):427-444. 

Rec #: 499 

KEYWORDS: metals; Zn; Cu; Cd; metallothionein; common murre; Uria aalge; liver; kidney; 

Belgium; Europe; effects; toxicology; gender differences; age variations; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: The common guillemots, Uria aalge, found stranded at the Belgian coast, display 

high levels of Cu in both liver and kidneys. The condition index of the animals, defined as the 

ratio of liver to kidneys mass, influences both the metal concentration and its binding to 

metallothioneins (MT): the lower the condition index, the more emaciated the animals, and the 

higher the total Cu concentration and the concentration of Cu bound to MT. In less robust 

individuals, our results suggest that Cu could displace Zn from MT, rendering the Zn ions 

available to induce a new MT synthesis. Sex-related effects also emerged as significantly higher 

hepatic MT as well as Cu- and Zn-MT concentrations were found in emaciated male guillemots 

compared to females. In both organs, Cd concentrations remained low and typically 

demonstrated an age-dependent renal accumulation, with no noticeable effect of the condition 

index. As a whole, these results suggest that, for guillemots found stranded at the Belgian coast, 

Cu binding to hepatic and renal MT could function as a protective mechanism, rendering the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

69 

metal ions unavailable to exert any cytotoxic activity. 

Debacker, Virginie. 2000. Common guillemot Uria aalge stranding at the Belgian coast: An 

ecotoxicological evaluation. Liege, Belgium: Universite De L'Etat a Liege, Faculty of Sciences, 

Oceanology. 179 pp. 

Rec #: 493 

KEYWORDS: common murre; Uria aalge; France; Belgium; North Sea; Europe; metals; Fe; 

Hg; Zn; Cu; Cd; organometallics; organic Hg; oil; liver; kidney; muscle; toxicology; 

metallothionein; oil; effects; biomarkers; age variations; bioaccumulation; gender differences; 

spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The aim of the present work is to determine the potential relationships existing 

between the common guillemot’s health status and its contaminants loading (Cu, Zn, Fe and Cd) 

through: 

- the study of the heavy metal levels in the tissues; 

- the study of the heavy metal speciation using metallothionein analysis; 

- the investigation of the potential relationship existing between the heavy metal levels in the 

tissues and the body condition. 

Chapter 1 presents the studied species (Uria aalge) in its North Sea habitat. Heavy metals and 

their impact on seabirds are also presented in this chapter with a special interest given to studies 

relating heavy metal contamination to the bird’s body condition. 

The results are then presented in different chapters: 

Chapter 2: Ecotoxicological and pathological studies of common guillemots Uria aalge beached 

on the Belgian coast during six successive wintering periods (1989-90 to 1994-95).

In this study, guillemots collected directly on the beaches and those which had been treated in 

rehabilitation centres were both analyzed. However, it soon appeared that, in addition to a 

general lack of information regarding the latter individuals, they were also characterized by 

significantly higher contamination levels. For these reasons, these birds were discarded from the 

sample and priority was given to those guillemots directly collected on the beaches. 

In those beached birds, severe emaciation (cachectic status) was identified as one of the major 

lesion and linked to higher heavy metal levels (Cu, Zn and total Hg). At that stage, cachexia was 

evaluated as present or absent without intermediate status. 

Compared to guillemots collected in more preserved area of the North Sea, those collected at the 

Belgian coast displayed higher heavy metal concentrations in their tissues (Cu, Zn and total Hg). 

Chapter 3: Heavy metals contamination and body condition of wintering guillemots Uria aa1ge 

at the Belgian coast from 1993 to 1998.

In this study, the cachectic status is detailed depending on its severity (from non cachectic:‘-‘ to 

low: ‘+1’, moderate: ‘+2’ and severely cachectic: ‘+3’). In addition, the general body condition 

of the guillemots is also evaluated using a condition index (liver to kidney weight ratio) which is 

clearly linked to the cachectic status: the lower the condition index, the more cachectic the bird. 

Heavy metal levels (Cu and Zn) in the tissues were shown to significantly increase with 

increasing cachexia severity while the organs’ total metal burdens remained unchanged. A 

general redistribution of heavy metals within the organs as a result of prolonged starvation and 

protein catabolism is proposed. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

70 

Chapter 4: Body condition and heavy metals: comparison between guillemots (Uria aalge) found 

stranded at the Belgian coast and those caught in the Erika’s oil spill (Britanny. December 1999).

Comparing those two samples permitted: 

- to examine the heavy metal contents in the tissues of healthy and unhealthy guillemots. Results 

also pointed towards a probable general redistribution of heavy metals within the organs as a 

result of protein catabolism. 

- to confirm that the southern North Sea, as a wintering ground for seabirds, including the 

guillemots, is likely to be more polluted: significantly higher heavy metal levels were 

systematically found in guillemots collected at the Belgium coast compared to their Brittany 

counterparts, even when comparing both guillemots to more robust individuals (condition index 

>2.5). 

Chapter 5: Combined effects of experimental heavy metals contamination (Cu. Zn and CH3Hg) 

and starvation on quails’ body condition: parallelism with a wild common guillemots (Uria 

aalge) population found stranded at the Belgian coast. 

This experimental study using common quails was set up to evaluate the cause-effect 

relationship existing between the high heavy metal levels observed in the guillemots’ tissues and 

their emaciation status: could these high levels cause emaciation or, on the contrary be the result 

of that emaciation process as previously suggested? 

Chapter 6: Influence of age, sex and body condition on Zn, Cu, Cd and metallothioneins in 

common guillemots (Uria aalge) stranded at the Belgian coast.

Heavy metal speciation was examined through the study of metallothioneins and metalloprotein 

known to play a key role in metal detoxification. Analysis was conducted on individuals for 

which the condition index ranged from low moderate (>2) values, which also presented a wide 

range of total heavy metals in their tissues. The condition index appeared as significantly 

affecting the hepatic and renal metals distribution on the protein, with higher levels bound to the 

metallothioneins in extremely emaciated guillemots. 

Delbeke, K.; Joiris, C.; and Decadt, G. 1984. Mercury contamination of the Belgian avifauna 

1970-1981. Environ. Pollut. (B. Chem. Phys.). 7(3):205-221. 

Rec #: 506 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Belgium; Europe; liver; kidney; heart; muscle; little grebe; 

Tachybaptus ruficollis; kingfisher; Alcedo atthis; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; great 

black-backed gull; Larus marinus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps grisegena; great crested grebe; 

Podiceps cristatus; common murre; Uria aalge; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; grey heron; 

Ardea cinerea; effects; bioaccumulation; seasonal variations 

ABSTRACT: Two hundred birds found dead in Belgium between 1970 and 1981, and 

belonging to 30 species, were analyzed for total Hg contamination. The contamination of 

aquatic birds ranged between 0.11 and 35.0 μg/g. For terrestrial birds, the extreme values were: 

not detectable and 14 μg/g. In both cases, differences in diet can explain the differences in 

contamination. The order of diets associated with increasing Hg contamination for aquatic birds 

was invertebrates, zooplankton and garbage, and fish; and for terrestrial birds this consisted of 

plants, invertebrates, mammals and birds. For raptors and owls, this effect of diet includes 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

71 

geographical variations within species. A higher Hg contamination level in the winter and early 

spring was noted for 2 species of owls. For aquatic birds, the contamination of liver was higher 

than that of kidney, with ratios varying between 1.2 and 2.5. For terrestrial birds, the ratio was 

closer to 1. A few detections were also made for muscle and heart, giving respectively 0.25 and 

0.6 of the liver contamination. Among the birds analyzed for their liver contamination, 15 % 

showed levels >3 μg/g and this level could have affected their reproduction; 3 % had levels >10 

μg/g, and these birds could have died from Hg poisoning; and 6 % showed an abnormally high 

liver:kidney ratio, which could reflect an acute intoxication. There exists a striking parallelism 

between the levels of Hg and organochlorine residues (DDT) in birds of prey, suggesting the 

existence of common ecotoxicological mechanisms. 

Delbeke, Katrien and Joiris, Claude. 1988. Accumulation mechanisms and geographical 

distribution of PCBs in the North Sea. Oceanis. 14(4):399-410. 

Rec #: 242 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; North Sea; Europe; carcass; common murre; Uria 

aalge; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; common gull; Larus canus; spatial variations; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: PCBs were determined in the main compartments of the North Sea ecosystems: 

suspended particulate matter, zooplankton, fish, sea birds and sediments. The PCB levels in 

particulate matter, net plankton and zooplankton from different geographical sites in the North 

Sea (51 degree -60 degree N) finally allow differently contaminated water masses to be 

distinguished: 1) high PCB levels in the Belgian coast zone decreasing with increasing distance 

from the coast (51 degree -53 degree N); 2) high PCB levels close to the Dogger Bank (53 

degree -54 degree N) and 3) low PCB levels in the northern water mass (54 degree -60 degree 

N). 

Denker, Eckhard. 1996. Seasonal and species specific differences of PCB burden and pattern in 

animals of the marine food web investigated by congener specific determination of all PCB 

congeners. Organohalogen Compounds. 29:82-87. 

Rec #: 317 

KEYWORDS: black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; organochlorines; PCBs; North Sea; 

Germany; Europe; bioaccumulation 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) burden and pattern of sand eel (Ammodytes 

tobianus) and cod (Gadus morhua) caught in the North Sea and of kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), 

feeding on these fish were detected Differences in PCB burden and pattern existed between fish 

species and even between fish of one species of the same age class even in the spring and 

summer month, this means that randomly collected and investigated fish samples show only the 

status quo of the capture date and lead to wrong interpretations concerning the ecosystem. 

Complex relationships existed with respect to PCB burden and pattern in the water between 

biotic and abiotic parts of the ecosystem with processes to equilibrium partitioning as the most 

important factors. The predator kittiwake showed a higher chlorinated PCB mixture as the fish 

species, in this species as in other bird- and mammal-species uptake and metabolism of PCB are 

the dominating factors controlling PCB burden and pattern. 

Denker, E.; Becker, P. H.; Beyerbach, M.; Büthe, A.; Heidmann, W. A.; and Staats de Yanes, G. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

72 

1994. Concentrations and metabolism of PCBs in eggs of waterbirds on the German North Sea 

coast. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 52(2):220-225. 

Rec #: 119 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; metabolism; biomagnification; egg; Wadden Sea; 

Germany; Europe; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; oystercatcher; 

Haematopus ostralegus; sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis; shelduck; Tadorna tadorna; 

common gull; Larus canus; common eider; Somateria mollissima; avocet; Recurvirostra 

avosetta; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; ringed plover; Charadrius hiaticula; redshank; 

Tringa totanus

ABSTRACT: The authors show the interspecific variation in PCB concentrations and in the 

degree of metabolism of the PCB mixtures in eggs of 11 waterbird species breeding on the 

highly polluted German Wadden Sea coast, where the PCB contamination of birds has been 

increasing during the last decade. 

Dietz, R.; Nielsen, C. O.; Hansen, M. M.; and Hansen, C. T. 1990. Organic mercury in 

Greenland birds and mammals. Sci. Total Environ. 95:41-51. 

Rec #: 292 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; Greenland; North America; little auk; 

Alle alle; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; 

Fulmarus glacialis; Iceland gull; Larus glaucoides; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; blacklegged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria 

spectabilis; pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius pomarinus; muscle; liver; kidney 

ABSTRACT: Muscle, liver and kidney samples of 20 species of birds, seals, whales and polar 

bear were analyzed for total and organic mercury. Organic mercury concentrations varied 

considerably between individuals. A general tendency towards age accumulation was found, 

together with log-linear correlations between organic mercury concentrations in the three tissues. 

The major part of the muscle mercury was organic (maximum concentration found was 1235 

micrograms kg-1 wet weight). This also applied to liver of birds, while in mammal liver organic 

mercury concentrations approached a level of 2000 micrograms kg-1 wet weight, which was not 

exceeded even when the total mercury concentration was greater than 100,000 micrograms kg-1 

wet weight The percentage of organic mercury in relation to total mercury in kidney of seals and 

whales was 10-20 % (maximum 982 micrograms organic mercury kg-1 wet weight), while in 

polar bear it was less than 6 % (maximum 217 micrograms kg-1 wet weight). For the monitoring 

of local food in the Arctic, the simpler and less expensive analysis of total mercury suffices when 

testing muscle, whereas liver and kidney should be tested for organic mercury as well. 

Dietz, R.; Riget, F.; and Born, E. W. 2000. An assessment of selenium to mercury in Greenland 

marine animals. Sci. Total Environ. 245(1-3):15-24. 

Rec #: 456 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Se; Greenland; North America; muscle; liver; kidney; black 

guillemot; Cepphus grylle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; little auk; Alle alle; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; 

red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; Iceland gull; Larus glaucoides; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius 

pomarinus
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

73 

ABSTRACT: Information on mercury and selenium molar relation in muscle, liver and kidney 

tissue of Greenland marine animals is presented. In the majority of the samples selenium was 

present in a molar surplus to mercury. This was most clear in molluscs, crustaceans, fish and 

seabirds. A 1:1 molar ratio was found in tissues of marine mammals with high mercury 

concentrations (above approximately 10 nmol/g). This was most clearly demonstrated for liver 

and kidney tissue of polar bear and for ringed seal with high mercury concentration in the liver. 

These findings support previous results found in liver tissue of marine mammals, suggesting that 

Me mercury is detoxified by a chemical mechanism involving selenium. If the anthropogenic 

release of mercury to the environment increases in the future due to increasing energy demands, 

species such as polar bears and seals with high tissue mercury concentrations should be 

monitored to elucidate whether this protective mechanism can be maintained in target organs. 

Dietz, R.; Riget, F.; and Johansen, P. 1996. Lead, cadmium, mercury and selenium in Greenland 

marine animals. Sci. Total Environ. 186:67-93. 

Rec #: 9 

KEYWORDS: Greenland; North America; metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Se; liver; kidney; muscle; 

northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; 

Somateria spectabilis; Iceland gull; Larus glaucoides; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; blacklegged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; thick-billed murre; Uria 

lomvia; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; little auk; Alle alle

ABSTRACT: Baseline concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury and selenium are reported 

from different tissues in marine organisms from Greenland. Overall, lead levels in marine 

organisms from Greenland are low, whereas cadmium, mercury and selenium levels are high. 

Tissue differences are not very distinct for lead, whereas the opposite is the case for cadmium 

and mercury. Selenium shows an intermediate behaviour in this respect. In general, lead 

concentrations do not correlate with the age/size of animals, whereas cadmium, mercury and 

selenium increase with age/size of most species and tissues analysed. No clear conclusions can 

be drawn in relation to geographical differences in lead, mercury and selenium concentration in 

Greenland. In general, cadmium levels are higher in Northwest Greenland compared to southern 

areas. Local differences with increasing cadmium levels from inner fjords to the open sea in 

stationary species may be of the same order of magnitude as those observed over long distances 

in Greenland. There is no indication that lead and selenium levels increase in higher trophic 

levels, although this is clearly the case for cadmium and mercury. In almost all cases lead levels 

in marine organisms from Greenland are well below the Danish food standard limits, however, a 

substantial proportion of marine mammals and seabirds in Greenland have cadmium and 

mercury levels exceeding the Danish standard limits. No food standard limits are given for 

selenium in food, but in some cases human intake of selenium is estimated to be high. 

Doi, Rikuo; Ohno, Hideki; and Harada, Masazumi. 1984. Mercury in feathers of wild birds from 

the mercury-polluted area along the shore of the Shiranui Sea, Japan. Sci. Total Environ. 40:155-

167. 

Rec #: 374 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; feather; Japan; Asia; temporal trends; biomagnification; common 

gull; Larus canus; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; Temminck's cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax filamentosus; Arctic loon; Gavia arctica; black-crowned night heron; Nycticorax 

nycticorax
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

74 

ABSTRACT: Total Hg content in the feathers of 95 stuffed, wild birds collected all over the 

shore of the Shiranui Sea was measured. They were collected over 25 years, from 1955 to 1980. 

They showed relatively high Hg levels till the late 1970's. A strong correlation between feeding 

habits and Hg content was observed. Five groups in order of diminishing Hg content were: fisheating sea birds (mean 7.1 ppm, n = 14), omnivorous water fowl (5.5 ppm, n = 17), predatory 

birds (3.6 ppm, n = 16), omnivorous terrestrial birds (1.5 ppm, n = 31), and herbivorous water 

fowl (0.9 ppm, n = 17). Stuffed, wild birds may be a good index of past environmental pollution. 

Donaldson, G. M.; Braune, B. M.; Gaston, A. J.; and Noble, D. G. 1997. Organochlorine and 

heavy metal residues in breast muscle of known-age thick-milled murres (Uria lomvia) from the 

Canadian Arctic. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 33(4):430-435. 

Rec #: 262 

KEYWORDS: thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Newfoundland; Canada; North America; 

muscle; organochlorines; DDTs; benzenes; HCHs; chlordanes; mirex; dieldrin; PCBs; metals; 

Se; Cd; Hg; Pb; age variations; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: Thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia) originating from breeding colonies in the 

Canadian Arctic were collected on their wintering grounds off the coast of Newfoundland. 

Murres had been previously banded such that the age of each bird could be determined upon 

collection. This allowed us to explore the possible relationships between age and contaminant 

levels in the thick-billed murre. Samples of breast muscle were analyzed for organochlorines 

(chlorobenzenes, hexachlorocyclohexanes, DDTs, chlordanes, mirex, dieldrin, and PCBs) and 

metals (selenium, cadmium, mercury, and lead). Levels of both organochlorine and metal 

residues were sufficiently low so that toxic effects were unlikely. First-year birds contained 

lower levels of DDTs, mirex, dieldrin, and PCBs compared with older birds, reflecting lower 

levels of contamination of these compounds in food chains at breeding colonies located at higher 

latitudes. Higher levels of chemical residues in older birds may reflect greater direct input of 

those organochlorines into the wintering grounds via the highly contaminated St. Lawrence 

River. Levels of chlorobenzenes, hexachlorocyclohexanes, and chlordanes, which reflect 

atmospheric deposition, were not detected at higher levels in older birds. Of the metals, only 

cadmium was detected at higher levels in older birds. 

Elliott, J. E.; Noble, D. G.; Norstrom, R. J.; and Whitehead, P. E. 1989. Organochlorine 

contaminants in seabird eggs from the Pacific coast of Canada, 1971-1986. Environ. Monit. 

Assess. 12(1):67-82. 

Rec #: 345 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; mirex; HCB; HCHs; PCBs; egg; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; fork-tailed storm-petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; 

Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus 

antiquus; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; peregrine falcon; Falco peregrinus; British 

Columbia; Canada; North America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Eggs were collected from 7 seabird species at colonies on the British Columbia 

coast, Canada, from 1983 to 1986 and analyzed for organochlorine contaminants. Total 

polychlorinated biphenyl levels (wet weight) were highest in Phalacrocorax auritus from the 

Fraser Estuary (2.91 mg/kg) and the Strait of Georgia (3.79 mg/kg). Highest DDE levels were in 

Oceanodroma furcata from the Queen Charlotte Islands (1.68 mg/kg). Organochlorine levels 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

75 

were generally lower in eggs from the mid 1980s than in those collected in the early 1970s. 

Organochlorine levels in Pacific alcids and hydrobatids foraging in offshore locations were 

compared to those in the same or ecologically similar species from the Canadian Atlantic coast. 

DDT- and HCH-related compounds were higher in Pacific populations while levels of dieldrin, 

oxychlordane, and HCB were generally lower. With the exception of β-HCH, levels of all 

measured organochlorines were lower in cormorants breeding in the Fraser River Estuary than in 

cormorants from the St. Lawrence River Estuary on the Atlantic coast. 

Elliott, J. E.; Noble, D. G.; Norstrom, R. J.; Whitehead, P. E.; Simon, M.; Pearce, P. A.; and 

Peakall, D. B. 1992. Patterns and trends of organic contaminants in Canadian seabird eggs, 1968-

90. In: Walker, Colin H.; Livingstone, David R. Persistent Pollutants in Marine Ecosystems. 

New York: Pergamon Press. 181-194. 

Rec #: 346 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; dieldrin; chlordanes; HCB; HCHs; PCDDs; 

Newfoundland; British Columbia; New Brunswick; Canada; North America; temporal trends; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; 

double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: A discussion is given of the monitoring of marine environment organic pollution 

using seabirds (a Canadian seabird monitoring project). The organochlorines in ivory. gull eggs 

from the western Canadian Arctic showed that the mean residue levels remained the same or 

increased for all compounds, except DDT. Other species showed declined organochlorine in 

eggs and tissues during the same period. 

Elliott, J. E. and Norstrom, R. J. 1985. Specimen Banking and Monitoring of Contaminants in 

Great Lakes Wildlife. Programs and Abstracts of the 28th Conference on Great Lakes Research 

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. 37 pp. 

Rec #: 167 

KEYWORDS: egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Canada; Great Lakes; North America; 

temporal trends 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: The Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) has investigated the impact of toxic 

chemicals on Great Lakes wildlife, mainly colonial water birds, since 1970. Many samples from 

initial studies were fortuitously stored, deep frozen, for possible future analysis. Specimen 

banking is now a routine part of CWS toxic chemical monitoring and surveillance. Both intact 

specimens and aliquots of homogenized material are stored in the bank. The bulk of the samples 

are kept at -40 degree C with a smaller amount at -80 degree C. Investigations indicate that 

persistent organochlorine compounds remain reasonably stable at these temperatures for at least 

5 years. Banking of samples permits retrodetermination of previously unidentified compounds as 

well as reanalysis using improved methodology. Recently, a series of Herring Gull (Larus 

argentatus) eggs from Scotch Bonnet Island, Lake Ontario, 1971-1982, were reanalyzed to 

obtain data on temporal trends. 

Elliott, J. E.; Scheuhammer, A. M.; Leighton, F. A.; and Pearce, P. A. 1992. Heavy metal and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

76 

metallothionein concentrations in Atlantic Canadian seabirds. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 

22(1):63-73. 

Rec #: 73 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Hg; Cd; Se; Zn; Cu; Mn; Cr; Mg; Fe; P; Ca; Na; metallothionein; 

Quebec; Newfoundland; New Brunswick; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America; 

bioaccumulation; liver; kidney; bone; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; doublecrested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Seabird tissues, collected during the 1988 breeding season from colonies on the 

Atlantic coast of Canada, were analyzed for toxic metals--Cd, Hg and Pb--and 18 other trace 

elements. Levels of most essential trace elements appear to be closely regulated in seabird 

tissues; values were in good agreement with those previously reported in the published literature. 

Liver-Se concentrations in Leach's storm-petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa) 77.6 + 7.49 μg/g dry 

weight) were much higher than values normally reported for freelying birds and mammals. Cd 

levels varied greatly among individuals, but were always higher in kidney than in liver. Highest 

mean Cd concentrations (183 + 65 μg/g dry weight) were in kidneys of the planktivorous Leach's 

storm-petrels from the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Cd and metallothionein (MT) concentrations were 

positively correlated in kidneys of Leach's storm-petrels, Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) and 

herring gull (Larus argentatus). Concentrations of total Hg varied greatly among species and 

individuals, but were consistently higher in liver than in kidney. 

Elliott, J. E.; Whitehead, P. E.; Martin, P. A.; Bellward, G. D.; and Norstrom, R. J. 1996. 

Persistent pulp mill pollutants in wildlife. In: Servos, Mark R., Munkittrick, Kelly R., Carey, 

John H., Van Der Kraak, Glen J. (Eds), Environmental Fate and Effects of Pulp and Paper Mill 

Effluents. Delray Beach, FL: St. Lucie Press. 297-314. 

Rec #: 168 

KEYWORDS: review; pulp mill; effects; biomagnification; reproductive success; biomarkers; 

toxicology; EROD; CYP1A; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; great blue heron; 

Ardea herodias; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great Lakes; British Columbia; Nova Scotia; 

New Brunswick; Quebec; Ontario; Canada; North America; organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; 

egg; liver; muscle 

ABSTRACT: Published and unpublished data on levels and effects of pulp mill contaminants in 

wildlife are reviewed. Polychlorinated dioxins and furans were detected at high concentrations in 

eggs of various fish-eating bird species from the Strait of Georgia on the west coast of British 

Columbia. Highest concentrations were near pulp mills: for example TCDD, PnCDD and 

HxCDD in cormorant (Phalacrocorax spp.) eggs were as high as 100, 275 and 950 ng kg-1 wet 

weight, respectively, near a pulp mill in 1986. In contrast, levels of these contaminants in 

cormorants collected from colonies near pulp mills on the Canadian Atlantic coast were typically 

<15 ng kg-1. Polychlorinated dioxin and furan levels were also elevated in tissues of fish-eating 

waterfowl wintering in the Strait of Georgia, but lower in non-piscivorous waterfowl. Whales 

and porpoises sampled from the Strait of Georgia had lower levels than piscivorous waterbirds. 

Episodes of poor breeding success during the 1980s in a colony of great blue herons (Ardea 

herodias) near a bleached kraft pulp mill in the Strait of Georgia were associated with sublethal 

effects on embryos, including edema, reduced body weight and EROD induction. Sublethal 

responses including CYP1A induction and porphyria were linked to pulp mill contaminant 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

77 

exposure in eagles and cormorants in the Strait of Georgia and to herring gulls breeding near a 

mill in Quebec. 

Elliott, John E.; Martin, Pamela A.; and Whitehead, Philip E. 1997. Organochlorine 

contaminants in seabird eggs from the Queen Charlotte Islands. Occas. Pap. Can. Wildl. Serv. 

93:137-148. 

Rec #: 180 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; mirex; HCB; HCHs; egg; 

ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; Cassin's auklet; Ptychoramphus aleuticus; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; fork-tailed storm petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; 

Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; North America; British Columbia; Canada; 

temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Fresh eggs of three alcid species, ancient murrelets Synthliboramphus antiquus, 

Cassin's auklets Ptychoramphus aleuticus, and rhinoceros auklets Cerorhinca monocerata, and 

two hydrobatid species, fork-tailed storm petrels Oceanodroma furcata and Leach's stormpetrels O. leucorhoa, were collected between 1987 and 1991 in the Queen Charlotte Islands and 

at three other coastal colonies in British Columbia to measure residue levels of organochlorine 

pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls. There were no consistent differences between 

contaminant levels in eggs from colonies in the Queen Charlotte Islands and those from other 

coastal locations, but interspecific differences were found. Contaminant levels in eggs from 

colonies of seabird species in the industrialized areas of coastal British Columbia, such as the 

Strait of Georgia and the Fraser estuary, showed significant declines during the decade following 

the ban on the use of most organochlorine pesticides and restrictions on the manufacture and use 

of PCBs, implemented during the early 1970s. Changes were far less apparent in eggs of birds 

from remote offshore colonies, such as the Queen Charlotte Islands. Trends in contaminant 

levels were assessed both temporally and geographically in this study. 

Elliott, John E. and Scheuhammer, Anton M. 1997. Heavy metal and metallothionein 

concentrations in seabirds from the Pacific Coast of Canada. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 34(10):794-801. 

Rec #: 153 

KEYWORDS: metals; Ca; Mn; Fe; Mg; P; Cu; Zn; Se; Pb; Hg; metallothionein; liver; kidney; 

bone; British Columbia; Canada; North America; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; Cassin's auklet; Ptychoramphus aleuticus; ancient 

murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; fork-tailed storm-petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; spatial 

variations 

ABSTRACT: Seabird tissues, collected during the 1990 breeding season from colonies on the 

Pacific coast of Canada, were analyzed for Cd, Hg, Pb and 19 other trace elements. 

Metallothionein (Mt) was measured in kidneys of 3 species. Ranges of essential trace metal 

concentrations were generally narrow, consistent with homeostatic control of these elements in 

seabird tissues. Cd concentrations were always higher in kidney than in liver. Highest mean Cd 

concentrations (306±78 μg/g dry weight) were in kidneys of planktivorous Leach's storm-petrels 

(Oceanodroma leucorhoa) from Hippa Island in the Queen Charlotte archipelago. Cd 

concentrations in kidneys of both Leach's storm-petrels and rhinoceros auklets (Cerorhinca 

monocerata) were significantly greater at northern colonies compared to those further south. Cd 

and Mt concentrations were positively correlated in kidneys across the 3 species for which 

measurements were made (rhinoceros auklet, Cassin's auklet (Ptychoramphus aleuticus), and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

78 

ancient murrelet (Synthliboramphus antiquus)) with an overall r=0.82, p<0.001. Hg 

accumulation was not sufficiently great to be of toxicological concern in any of the 5 species. 

Highest mean Hg concentrations (6.37 μg/g) were in livers of Leach's storm-petrels from Cleland 

Island on the west coast of Vancouver Island, and were significantly greater than in birds from 

further north on Hippa Island. Concentrations of hepatic Hg and Se were not correlated in the 3 

species (rhinoceros auklet, Cassin's auklet and ancient murrelet) for which Se was measured. Pb 

concentrations were consistently greatest in bone, with highest mean concentrations in forktailed storm-petrels (Oceanodroma furcata)(6.2 μg/g dry weight). 

Engwall, Magnus; Brunström, Björn; and Jakobsson, Eva. 1994. Ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase 

(EROD) and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH)-inducing potency and lethality of chlorinated 

naphthalenes in chicken (Gallus domesticus) and eider duck (Somateria mollissima) embryos. 

Arch. Toxicol. 68(1):37-42. 

Rec #: 481 

KEYWORDS: chicken; Gallus domesticus; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Baltic Sea; 

Sweden; Europe; organochlorines; PCNs; liver; toxicology; EROD; AHH; dosing study; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD)- and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase 

(AHH)-inducing potencies and lethalities of a technical preparation of polychlorinated 

naphthalenes (PCNs) (Halowax 1014, approximate congener ratio: 20 % 

tetrachloronaphthalenes, 40 % pentachloronaphthalenes, 40 % hexachloronaphthalenes), a 

mixture of 50 % 1,2,3,5,6,7-hexachloronaphthalene and 50 % 1,2,3,4,6,7-hexachloronaphthalene 

(HxCN-mix), and 1,2,3,4,5,6,7-heptachloronaphthalene (HpCN) were studied in chicken (Gallus 

domesticus) and eider duck (Somateria mollissima) embryos. Mortality and hepatic EROD 

activity were determined on day 10 of incubation in chicken embryos exposed to various doses 

of the PCNs via the air-sacs of the eggs on day 7. The HxCN-mix and Halowax 1014 proved to 

have both embryolethal and EROD-inducing properties, while the HpCN had low ERODinducing potency and embryolethality. ED 50 values for EROD induction by the HxCN-mix and 

Halowax 1014 were estimated to be 0.06 mg/kg egg and 0.2 mg/kg egg, respectively. Fifty 

percent of the chicken embryos died (6/12) when given 3.0 mg/kg of the HxCN-mix while a 

similar dose of Halowax 1014 caused mortality in 4 out of 12 chicken embryos. The doseresponse curve for EROD induction by Halowax 1014 exhibited a decline after the maximal 

level was reached. When Halowax 1014 (1.0 mg/kg egg) was coinjected with 3,3',4,4',5-

pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB IUPAC #126) (0.1 μg/kg egg) no additive effects on EROD activity 

were found, but when the same dose of Halowax 1014 was coinjected with a dose of PCB #126, 

known to cause maximal induction (1.0 μg/kg egg), the resulting EROD activity was lower than 

that caused solely by 1.0 μg PCB #126/kg egg. These findings indicate that Halowax 1014 has 

both EROD-inducing and EROD-inhibiting properties. Mortality and EROD and AHH activities 

were determined on day 18 (chicken) or day 24 (eider) of incubation in embryos exposed to 1.0 

mg/kg egg via the yolksac on day 4 (chicken) or day 5 (eider). The HxCN-mix and Halowax 

1014 induced AHH and EROD in both chicken and eider, but the induction rates were higher in 

the eider embryos. The HxCN-mix and Halowax 1014 caused degenerative hepatic lesions and 

pericardial oedema in the chicken embryos but not in the eider embryos. The most toxic PCNs 

tested (the HxCN-mix and Halowax 1014) were approximately of the same EROD-inducing 

potency as previously found for the most toxic mono- ortho-chlorinated biphenyls (Brunström 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

79 

1990), and 1000 times less toxic and potent as EROD inducers compared with PCB #126 

(Brunström and Andersson 1988). HpCN was considerably less toxic and exhibited a low 

EROD-inducing potency. The chicken embryos were more sensitive to the hepatotoxic effects 

produced by Halowax 1014 and the HxCN-mix than the eider duck embryos, while the eider 

embryos were more responsive in terms of EROD and AHH induction. The two HxCNs studied 

usually make up approximately 1 % of the total quantity of PCNs present in Halowax 1014 

[when determined with gas chromatography (flame ionization detection)]. Therefore, the 

relatively high toxic potency of Halowax 1014 cannot be explained by its content of the two 

HxCNs. 

Falandysz, J. and Szefer, P. 1984. Chlorinated hydrocarbons in fish-eating birds wintering in the 

Gdansk Bay, 1981-82 and 1982-83. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 15(8):298-301. 

Rec #: 537 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; DDTs; PCBs; little auk; Alle alle; horned grebe; 

Podiceps auritus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps grisegena; great crested grebe; Podiceps cristatus; 

red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; common merganser; Mergus merganser; red-throated 

loon; Gavia stellata; Arctic loon; Gavia arctica; common murre; Uria aalge; black guillemot; 

Cepphus grylle; razorbill; Alca torda; Baltic Sea; Poland; Great Britain; Scotland; Finland; 

Switzerland; Europe; muscle; egg; liver; fat; temporal trends; biomagnification; gender 

differences; seasonal variations; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Seventy-four samples of adipose fat of 10 species of fisheating birds commonly 

wintering in Gdask Bay and one of little auk, a rare species in this area, have been analysed for 

residues of HCB, BHC, DDT and PCBs. Auks (guillemot, black guillemot and razorbill), which 

probably stay a whole year in the Baltic area, contained in their fat twice the level of PCBs as 

mergansers, and 5–6 times as much as in divers and grebes—birds which stay in the sea mainly 

after the breeding season. DDT levels were somewhat higher but comparable in auks and grebes, 

and lower in mergansers and divers. BHC and HCB levels were 3–4 times and 5–10 times 

higher, respectively, in auks than in birds from other families studied. When comparing residue 

levels found in adipose fat of birds taken during the wintering seasons of 1981–1982 and 1982–

1983 with those taken in 1975–1976 or 1980–1981, an initially rapid, but in recent years a rather 

slow decline in DDT level is detectable for grebes, mergansers and divers, and in the case of 

PCBs the residue levels fell slightly. In auks, the DDT residue level fell by half, but remains 

rather stable in recent years, while there are only minor fluctuations in the residue level of PCBs. 

Falandysz, Jerzy. 1980. Chlorinated hydrocarbons in gulls from the Baltic south coast. Mar. 

Pollut. Bull. 11(3):75-80. 

Rec #: 376 

KEYWORDS: little gull; Larus minutus; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; common gull; 

Larus canus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Baltic Sea; Europe; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; 

HCB; toxaphene; liver; muscle; fat; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated terphenyls (PCT), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), DDT (I) 

[50-29-3], and hexachlorobenzene (II) [118-74-1] were detected in the tissues of Little Gull 

(Larus minutus), Black-headed Gull (L. ridibundus), Common Gull (L. canus), and Herring Gull 

(L. argentatus). The adult Herring Gull, were the most effected by chlorinated hydrocarbons; 

they contained in their livers II 0.36-2.2, I 50-320, and PCB 140-530 ppm. For the other gulls, 

the residue levels in their liver were II 0.005-0.17, I 0.15-8.3, and PCB 0.14-8.4 ppm, 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

80 

respectfully. The presence of PCT in Black-headed Gulls and their absence in other gulls was 

related to the different feeding habits of the gull species. 

Falandysz, Jerzy. 1992. Mercury content in liver, kidneys and pectoral muscles of guillemot 

(Uria aalge Pont.) wintering in the Gulf of Gdansk. Stud. Mater. Ocenaol. 62:5-11. 

Rec #: 304 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; metals; Hg; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; 

horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps grisegena; common goldeneye; 

Bucephala clangula; Poland; Europe; muscle; liver; kidney; spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Mercury content has been determined in tissues of 23 guillemots (Uria aalge) and 

7 specimens of other marine bird species (razorbill, slavonian grebe, rednecked grebe and 

goldeneye) taken from fishing nets in a nearshore region of the Gulf of Gdansk in autumn 1983 

and winter 1983-84. The mean level of mercury in pectoral muscles, liver and kidneys of male 

and female guillemots ranged between 0.12-0.15, 0.43-0.44 and 0.37-0.46 μg/g on a wet-weight 

basis, respectively, while for the remaining bird species the values noted were two to five times 

higher (liver and kidneys), on average. 

Falandysz, Jerzy. 1986. Organochlorine compounds in tissues of golden eye, velvet scoter, eider 

and coot wintering in Gdansk Bay, 1975-1976. Bromatologia i Chemia Toksykologiczna. 

19(1):55-60. 

Rec #: 488 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCHs; HCB; common goldeneye; Bucephala 

clangula; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; common eider; Somateria mollissima; coot; 

Fulica atra; Baltic Sea; Poland; Europe; liver; muscle; fat 

ABSTRACT: The concentrations of HCB [118-74-1], total cyclohexane hexachloride isomers, 

sum of DDT and its metabolites, and PCB in the muscle, liver, and adipose tissue of diving 

ducks [golden eye (Bucephla clangula), velvet scoter (Melanitta fusca), and eider (Somateria 

mollissima)] and coots (Fulica atra) were severalfold higher in birds found dead on the coast of 

Gdansk Bay (Baltic Sea) than in living birds. The use of birds as bioindicators of environmental 

pollution is discussed. 

Falandysz, Jerzy; Bergqvist, Per-Anders; and Rappe, Christoffer. 1998. Dioxins and furans 

(PCDD/Fs) in marine birds from the southern part of the Baltic Sea. Bromatologia i Chemia 

Toksykologiczna. 31(1):75-78. 

Rec #: 372 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; toxicology; TEQs; biomagnification; fat; 

liver; muscle; Baltic Sea; Europe; white-tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; common gull; 

Larus canus; red-throated loon; Gavia stellata; razorbill; Alca torda; common murre; Uria 

aalge; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: PCDDs and PCDFs were detected in the adipose tissue, liver or breast muscle of a 

few marine birds, including mixed-feeders (common gull), fish-eaters (redthroated diver, 

razorbill, guillemot) and predator species (sea eagle) collected from the south coast of the Baltic 

Sea. High levels of 2,3,4,7,8-penta-CDF and 1,2,3,7,8-penta-CDDD as well as of numerous less 

toxic PCDD/Fs were found in all samples. A relation could be observed between the position of 

the test species in the food chain and body lipids PCDD/Fs concentrations, which were lower for 

the common gull than for a typical fish-eater and highest in the white-tailed sea eagle. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

81 

Falandysz, Jerzy and Szefer, Piotr. 1982. Chlorinated hydrocarbons in diving ducks wintering in 

Gdańsk Bay, Baltic Sea. Sci. Total Environ. 24(2):119-127. 

Rec #: 489 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; DDTs; PCBs; fat; Baltic Sea; Europe; tufted 

duck; Aythya fuligula; greater scaup; Aythya marila; common goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; 

long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; white-winged scoter; 

Melanitta fusca; common eider; Somateria mollissima; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: The levels of HCB [118-74-1], α-BHC [319-84-6], γ-BHC (I) [58-89-9], DDT 

[50-29-3] (plus analogs), and PCB were detected in adipose fat from species of diving ducks at 

their winter quarters in the southern Baltic. PCB, ΣDDT, and HCB were detected in all samples. 

PCB's were highest followed by ΣDDT and HCB. Residues of I were detected in only 4 of 129 

samples examined; but, for all samples from the long-tailed duck, only levels of I were positive. 

Differences between HCB, ΣDDT and PCB residue levels between males and females of the 

scaup-duck were insignificant. 

Fimreite, N.; Bjerk, J. E.; Kveseth, N.; and Brun, E. 1977. DDE and PCBs in eggs of Norwegian 

seabirds. Astarte. 10(1):15-20. 

Rec #: 12 

KEYWORDS: egg; effects; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; Norway; Europe; bioaccumulation; 

gannet; Sula bassana; herring gull; Larus argentatus; razorbill; Alca torda; common murre; Uria 

aalge; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of DDE and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in 

203 seabird eggs collected from 10 localities along the coast of Norway (58 degree 57'N-71 

degree 05'N). The average concentrations of DDE were, on a wet weight basis, 2.05, 1.57, 1.20, 

0.80, and 0.37 ppm in eggs of gannet (Sula bassana), herring gull (Larus argentatus), razorbill 

(Alca torda), guillemot (Uria aalge) and kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla ), respectively. The 

corresponding concentrations of PCBs were 7.71, 8.49, 5.40, 2.19, and 2.87 ppm. Some 

geographical variation was found, but no south-north gradient. The possible biological effects are 

discussed. 

Fimreite, Norvald and Bjerk, John Erik. 1979. Residues of DDE and PCBs in Norwegian seabird 

fledglings, compared to those in their eggs. Astarte. 12:49-51. 

Rec #: 524 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; Norway; Europe; egg; carcass; spatial variations; 

bioaccumulation; Uria aalge; common murre; Rissa tridactyla; black-legged kittiwake; Larus 

argentatus; herring gull 

ABSTRACT: Residues of DDE and PCBs were recorded in fledglings of various seabird 

species from northern Norway. When corresponding levels in eggs were subtracted from those in 

fledglings after adjustment for weight increase (eggs - fledglings), the results were large1y 

negative, indicating a decline of these compounds. This probably reflects a low degree of local 

contamination 

Fimreite, Norvald; Brun, Einar; Frøslie, Arne; Frederichsen, Per; and Gundersen, Nil. 1974. 

Mercury in eggs of Norewegian seabirds. Astarte. 7(2):71-75. 

Rec #: 531 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; egg; Norway; Europe; herring gull; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

82 

Larus argentatus; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; black-legged kittiwake; 

Rissa tridactyla; gannet; Sula bassana; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The sampled material comprised 157 eggs of seabirds collected from nine 

localities along the coast of Norway. The mercury levels in Herring Gull eggs from Lyngør and 

Utsira, south of 59o

N, averaged 0.34 ppm. From northern localities 67o30'-71oN, eggs of Herring 

Gull (Larus argentatus), Guillemot (Uria aalge), and Razorbill (Alca torda) contained less than 

0.10 ppm, eggs of Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) less than 0.15 ppm, and Gannet (Sula bassana) 

0.58 ppm, all average values. More than 90 per cent of the mercury was in methyl form. 

Fisk, A. T.; Moisey, J.; Hobson, K. A.; Karnovsky, N. J.; and Norstrom, R. J. 2001. Chlordane 

components and metabolites in seven species of Arctic seabirds from the Northwater Polynya: 

Relationships with stable isotopes of nitrogen and enantiomeric fractions of chiral components. 

Environ. Pollut. 113:225-238. 

Rec #: 341 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; stable isotopes; organochlorines; chlordanes; liver; fat; little 

auk; Alle alle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; 

northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Greenland; Canada; North America; Northwater Polynya; 

Atlantic Ocean 

ABSTRACT: The Northwater Polynya (NOW) is a large area of year-round open water found in 

the high Arctic between Ellesmere Island and Greenland. NOW has high biological productivity 

compared with other arctic marine areas, and supports large populations of several seabird 

species. Seven species of seabirds, dovekie (Alle alle, DOVE), thick-billed murre (Uria lomvia, 

TBMU), black guillemot (Cepphus grylle, BLGU), black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla, 

BLKI), ivory gull (Pagophila eburnea, IVGU), glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus, GLGU) and 

northern fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis, NOFU) were collected in May and June 1998 to determine 

chlordane concentrations in liver and fat and to examine species differences, relationships with 

stable isotopes of nitrogen, and enantiomeric fractions (EFs) of chiral components. ΣCHLOR 

concentrations varied over an order of magnitude among species, from a low of 176±19 ng/g 

(lipid corrected) in TBMU liver to a high of 3190±656 ng/g (lipid corrected) in NOFU liver. 

Lipid-corrected concentrations of chlordane did not vary between sex for any species or between 

fat and liver except for the DOVE, that had fat concentrations that were significantly greater than 

the liver. δ15N values described a significant percentage of the variability of concentrations for 

most chlordane components, although less than what has been reported for whole food chains. 

Slopes of δ15N versus concentration of chlordane components and CHLOR were similar with the 

exception of those which were metabolized (trans-chlordane) or formed through 

biotransformation (oxychlordane). The relative proportions of chlordane components in seabirds 

were related to phylogeny; the procellariid (NOFU) had the greatest percentage of oxychlordane 

(>70 %), followed by the larids (BLKI, IVGU and GLGU; 40-50 %) and the alcids (DOVE and 

BLGU; 10-20 %). The exception was TBMU, an alcid, where oxychlordane made up >40 % of 

its chlordane. EFs of chiral components failed to predict concentration or trophic level, but did 

identify biotransformation differences between species and chlordane components. TBMU 

appeared to have a greater capacity to metabolize and eliminate chlordane, based on high 

proportions of oxychlordane, the highest EFs for oxychlordane and heptachlor epoxide, and a 

δ15N-ΣCHLOR value which was well below the relationships developed for all seabird species. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

83 

Focardi, S.; Fossi, C.; and Leonzio, C. 1985. Chlorinated hydrocarbons in some sea-birds. 

Oebalia. 11(1):127-140. 

Rec #: 102 

KEYWORDS: Danube Delta; Mediterranean Sea; Atlantic Ocean; Italy; Europe; black-headed 

gull; Larus ridibundus; slender-billed gull; Larus genei; herring gull; Larus argentatus; blacknecked grebe; Podiceps nigricollis; little egret; Egretta garzetta; gull-billed tern; Sterna nilotica; 

black-winged stilt; Himantopus himantopus; avocet; Recurvirostra avosetta; coot; Fulica atra; 

Cory's shearwater; Calonectris diomedea; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; pygmy cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax pygmeus; great white pelican; Pelecanus onocrotalus; Audouin's gull; Larus 

audouinii; common tern; Sterna hirundo; little tern; Sterna albifrons; organochlorines; PCBs; 

DDTs; egg; biomagnification; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Chlorinated hydrocarbons have been tested in birds with different feeding habits, 

collected in the Mediterranean Sea, Danube Delta and in the East Atlantic Sea. 

Focardi, S.; Fossi, C.; Leonzio, C.; Corsolini, S.; and Parra, O. 1996. Persistent organochlorine 

residues in fish and water birds from the Biobio River, Chile. Environ. Monit. Assess. 43(1):73-

92. 

Rec #: 36 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; HCHs; Chile; South America; 

bioaccumulation; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), DDT and its metabolites, 

HCH isomers and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) were determined in fish and birds from different 

locations in the Biobio River basin (central Chile). Samples collected near the mouth of the river 

contained high concentrations of PCBs, reflecting the massive use of these xenobiotics in the 

urban and industrial areas of Concepcion and Talcauano. Samples collected in the central part of 

the basin contained very high concentrations of lindane that coincide with the widespread use of 

lindane-based pesticides (purified gamma -HCH) in this area. DDT was distributed 

homogeneously throughout the basin, except at Laguna Icalma, the source of the river in the 

Andes. Most PCB residues in fish and birds consisted of congeners between penta- and heptachlorobiphenyls. In fish, the predominant congeners were the pentachlorobiphenyl 23'44'5 

(IUPAC number 118) and the hexachlorobiphenyl 22'344'55' (PCB-153); in birds 22'44'55'(PCB180) prevailed. 

Fog, Mette and Kraul, Inge. 1973. Levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) and 

organochlorine insecticides in eggs from eider (Somateria mollissima). Acta Vet. Scand. 

14(2):350-352. 

Rec #: 490 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; PCBs; egg; common eider; Somateria 

mollissima; Denmark; Europe; temporal trends; eggshell thickness; effects 

ABSTRACT: Residues of dieldrin [60-57-1] (mean = 0.39, 0.29, 0.24 mg/kg extracted fat), 

DDE [72-55-9] (mean = 2.12, 1.66, 1.37 mg/kg) and a 60 %-chlorinated PCB (mean = 35.0, 

19.9, 14.0 mg/kg) were found in molluscivorous eider eggs taken from their natural environment 

in the years 1970, 1971 and 1972, respectively The gradual decrease in residue levels from 

1970-1972 reflected a decrease in the level of persistent exposure to trace amounts of the 

pollutants, due to restriction in organochlorine insecticide use begun in 1970 in the area. Eggshell thickness was apparently uneffected by even the greatest contamination (1970). 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

84 

Fox, G. A. 1993. Temporal trends in biomarker responses of adult herring gulls from seven Great 

Lakes colonies, 1974-1991. OME 36th Conference of the International Association for Great 

Lakes Research, June 4-10, 1993. Program and Abstracts. 112. 

Rec #: 203 

KEYWORDS: North America; Great Lakes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; biomarkers; 

toxicology; porphyrin; retinol; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; effects; temporal trends 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: We examined the temporal trends in biomarker responses known to be affected by 

PCBs and other persistent lipophilic contaminants for adult Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) 

trapped on 7 Great Lakes colonies (4 in AOCs) and a reference colony on the Atlantic coast, 

1974-1991. With the exception of Saginaw Bay and Middle Island (L. Erie), PCB and DDE 

levels in the livers of these birds declined at all sites. Retinyl palmitate stored in the liver 

increased at 5 of the Great Lakes locations and at the reference site, but remained relatively 

similar at Fighting Island (Detroit River) and in Saginaw Bay. Free retinol declined at all sites. 

Accumulations of highly carboxylated porphyrins in the liver have remained constant and low at 

the reference site but highly elevated and unchanged at Saginaw Bay. Whereas the relative 

thyroid mass of all Great Lakes gulls collected prior to 1985 were significantly greater than the 

reference site, goiter was not observed at any site in 1991. Further data and additional measures 

will be discussed in relation to contaminant trends at Great Lakes sites. 

Fox, G. A.; Gilman, A. P.; Peakall, D. B.; and Anderka, F. W. 1978. Behavioural abnormalities 

of nesting Lake Ontario herring gulls. J. Wildl. Manage. 42(3):477-483. 

Rec #: 138 

KEYWORDS: reproductive success; abnormalities; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great 

Lakes; New Brunswick; Canada; North America; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Lake Ontario herring gulls (Larus argentatus) did not defend their nests in the 

normal manner and were less attentive (P <0 . 05) than those on Kent Island, New Brunswick. 

Incubating Lake Ontario gulls appeared to apply less heat to their eggs. Within Lake Ontario, a 

comparison of nest attentiveness and nest air temperatures between successful and unsuccessful 

nests revealed similar differences. The decreased nest defense of Lake Ontario gulls was 

sufficient to account for the high incidence of egg loss observed. The variability in nest air 

temperature was sufficient to increase embryonic mortality based on studies of other species. 

These abnormalities probably result from pollutant-induced endocrine dysfunction. 

Fox, G. A.; Kennedy, S. W.; and Trudeau, S. 1993. Temporal and spatial variation in a battery of 

biomarkers in Great Lakes fish-eating birds in relation to known patterns of chemical 

contamination. Mar. Environ. Res. 35(1-2):230. 

Rec #: 86 

KEYWORDS: Great Lakes; North America; toxicology; temporal trends; spatial variations; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; abnormalities; 

blood; liver; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: The Laurentian Great Lakes of North America constitute the largest and one of 

the most contaminated freshwater ecosystems in the world. We have used a number of 

biomarkers to measure contaminant-induced effects at the biochemical, organ, and individual 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

85 

level in free-living populations of fish-eating birds breeding on these lakes. Spatial and temporal 

variation in hepatic levels of highly carboxylated porphyrins and retinoids, thyroid histology, and 

hormone levels in adult herring gulls, Larus argentatus, and the prevalence of birth defects in 

young double-crested cormorants, Phalacrocorax auritus, show a marked correspondence with 

relative levels of environmental contamination. Spatial differences in levels of free-plasma 

iodide are not consistent with thyroid histology and thyroxine levels. The increased prevalence 

of microfollicular hyperplasia and marked thyroxine depletion suggest that thyrotoxic factors are 

present in the food chain. The spatial and temporal similarity in severity of thyroxine and 

retinoid depletion is consistent with a common etiology, such as displacement from their shared 

carrier protein, transthyretin. Although it is both impossible to prove and biological improbable 

that a single component of the complex mixture of contaminants present is solely responsible for 

the effects observed, correlative evidence suggests that PCBs and related chemicals are major 

contributors to this toxicity. Similar effects have been observed in rats fed TCDD and some 

PCBs. 

Fox, G. A.; Trudeau, S.; Won, H.; and Grasman, K. A. 1998. Monitoring the elimination of 

persistent toxic substances from the Great Lakes; Chemical and physiological evidence from 

adult herring gulls. Environ. Monit. Assess. 53(1):147-168. 

Rec #: 365 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; toxicology; porphyrin; vitamin 

A; Great Lakes; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America; herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; 

gland; temporal trends; effects 

ABSTRACT: To assess progress towards virtual elimination of PCBs, DDE, dieldrin and Mirex 

and their associated physiological effects, we compared their concentrations in pooled livers of 

adult herring gulls (Larus argentatus) repeatedly sampled at 8 Great Lakes colonies and a 

reference colony on the Atlantic coast between 1974 and 1993. We measured the relative 

thyroid mass and concentrations of highly carboxylated porphyrins and retinyl palmitate in the 

liver of each individual. PCBs, dieldrin and mirex declined in 7 of 8 colonies while DDE 

decreased in 6. The greatest decreases occurred pre-1985. PCBs and DDE did not decrease in 

gulls from Middle Island in western Lake Erie. Middle Island and Saginaw Bay had the highest 

concentrations of PCBs of 11 Great Lakes colonies in the 1990s. Thyroids of gulls from Great 

Lakes colonies were slightly enlarged but the degree of enlargement has decreased over time. In 

1991, gulls from Great Lakes colonies had slight to moderately elevated concentrations of highly 

carboxylated porphyrins. In the early 1990s, hepatic stores of retinyl palmitate were very 

seriously depleted in gulls from the Detroit River, western basin of Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario, 

reflecting decreased availability and altered storage. We conclude that PCBs and/or other 

persistent toxic substances in the food of herring gulls have not been virtually eliminated. 

Fox, Glen A.; Grasman, Keith A.; Hobson, Keith A.; Williams, Kim; Jeffrey, Deborah; and 

Hanbidge, Barbara. 2002. Contaminant residues in tissues of adult and prefledged herring gulls 

from the Great Lakes in relation to diet in the early 1990s. J. Great Lakes Res. 28(4):643-663. 

Rec #: 356 

KEYWORDS: bioaccumulation; biomagnification; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; kidney; 

liver; metals; Cd; Hg; Pb; Se; As; Cu; Fe; Zn; Mn; Co; Cr; Mo; Sn; Ni; V; Al; Ba; Tl; 

organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; chlordanes; benzenes; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; 

toxicology; TEQs; Great Lakes; North America; Canada; spatial variations; temporal trends 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

86 

ABSTRACT: In the early 1990s, herring gulls (Larus argentatus) were collected in 15 breeding 

colonies throughout the Great Lakes basin and in 2 reference colonies on Lake Winnipeg and the 

Bay of Fundy. Organochlorine and metal concentrations, and stable isotope ratios (15N/14

N and 

13C/ 12C) were measured in-their tissues, and the authors qualitatively assessed their diet. Breast 

muscle δ15N suggested that adults fed on planctivorous or insectivorous fish at 6 colonies, on 

piscivorous fish at 4, and at a lower trophic level at the remaining 3. The concentrations of Co, 

Ni, Al, Cr, Sn, Fe, and Pb in kidneys of adults suggested anthropogenic enrichment in the Great 

Lakes basin. Concentrations of contaminants were highest most often in tissues of gulls from 

Lake Ontario and northern Lake Michigan colonies. Concentrations of Pb in adults from 

Hamilton Harbor and the Detroit River, and of Se in adults from the southern Lake Huron colony 

were similar to published toxicity thresholds. Tissue levels of Cd have increased, while those of 

Pb have decreased markedly since 1983. DDE, dieldrin, mirex, and ΣPCB concentrations in 

livers collected from 9 of these colonies revealed declines of 16 to 87 % at most locations since 

the early 1980s. 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents were highest in adults from the 

offshore colonies in western Lake Erie and northern Lake Michigan, where gulls feed on 

piscivorous fish, and were driven by non-ortho PCBs. There was evidence of an unusually high 

bioavailability of organochlorines, especially dieldrin, near the northern Lake Michigan colony 

during the period of chick growth, and of an ongoing loading of mercury to eastern Lake 

Ontario. Tissues of adult gulls from colonies on Lakes Ontario, Erie, and Michigan best reflect 

local conditions whereas those from Lake Superior and northern Lake Huron reflect 

contaminants accumulated from time spent on the lower lakes. 

Fox, Glen A.; Kennedy, Sean W.; Norstrom, Ross J.; and Wigfield, Donald C. 1988. Porphyria 

in herring gulls: A biochemical response to chemical contamination of Great Lakes food chains. 

Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 7(10):831-839. 

Rec #: 223 

KEYWORDS: liver; North America; Great Lakes; toxicology; porphyrin; effects; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; organochlorines; dieldrin; mirex; chlordanes; benzenes; HCB; OCS; PCBs; 

DDTs; PCDDs; PCDFs; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of highly carboxylated porphyrins (HCPs) in the livers of adult 

herring gulls (Larus argentatus) from colonies throughout the Great Lakes were found to be 

markedly elevated in comparison with those in gulls from coastal areas and in seven other 

species of birds consuming diets uncontaminated with polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons 

(PHAHs). The highest levels were found in gulls from lower Green Bay (Lake Michigan), 

Saginaw Bay (Lake Huron) and Lake Ontario. The authors suggest that the high levels of HCPs 

reflect PHAH-induced derangement of heme biosynthesis. Determination of HCPs offers 

promise as a specific and sensitive biological marker of PHAH-induced toxicity and as a 

measure of the toxicological significance of the chemical burden in gulls, terminal members of 

Great Lakes food chains. 

Fox, Glen A.; Kennedy, Sean W.; Trudeau, Suzanne; Bishop, Christine A.; and Wayland, Mark. 

1997. Hepatic porphyrin patterns in birds as a promising measure of effect and bioavailability of 

PCBs and other HAHs in water and sediments. Organohalogen Compounds. 33:366-370. 

Rec #: 443 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; liver; Great Lakes; Canada; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; toxicology; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

87 

porphyrin; spatial variations 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: In susceptible bird species, chronic dietary exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls 

and other halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons results in the derangement of the heme 

biosynthetic pathway leading to the accumulation of uroporphyrin and highly carboxylated 

porphyrins (HCP). The observations cover prefledgling Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) and 

Double-crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and prefledglings of the insectivorous Tree 

Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor). The birds were collected from the area of the Great Lakes and 

from reference areas in the prairie provinces and Atlantic Coast (Canada). On the basis of earlier 

surveys, uroporphyrin concentrations of >50 pmol/g and the presence of hexa- and pentacarboxylporphyrins are regarded as an indication of significant disruption of the heme 

biosynthetic pathway. Unlike Herring Gulls from the Atlantic coast, the concentration of 

uroporphyrins ranged from 11-166 pmol/g liver in adult Herring Gulls collected from Great 

Lakes colonies and a colony in Northern Lake Winnipeg in 1991. Uroporphyrin (<4-23.5 

pmol/g) was the only HCP detected in 21- and 28-day old Double-crested cormorant chicks. 

Their was little variation in uroporphyrin concentrations within these collections. This suggests 

that this species is less sensitive to the porphyrinogenic effect chemicals than Herring Gulls. 

Tree Swallows feed on emergent insects and therefore provide a measure of sediment 

contamination, and the transfer of these contaminants to terrestrial food chains. For these Tree 

Swallows differences in the liver HCP content were found for swallows from the Wapiti River in 

Northern Alberta and those from the Great Lakes wetlands. 

Frank, Adrian. 1986. In search of biomonitors for cadmium: Cadmium content of wild Swedish 

fauna during 1973-1976. Sci. Total Environ. 57:57-65. 

Rec #: 486 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; common eider; Somateria mollissima; black-headed gull; Larus 

ridibundus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; mute swan; Cygnus olor; whooper swan; Cygnus 

cygnus; green-winged teal; Anas crecca; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; Canada goose; Branta 

canadensis; crane; Grus grus; common merganser; Mergus merganser; great-crested grebe; 

Podiceps cristatus; grey heron; Ardea cinerea; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; red-breasted 

merganser; Mergus serrator; kidney; liver; Sweden; Europe; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Forty-five species of birds and 22 species of mammals of the terrestrial and 

aquatic fauna, herbivores as well as carnivores, were investigated during 1973-1976 for Cd 

accumulating properties to find biomonitors for Cd in the Swedish environment. Terrestrial 

herbivores, birds as well as mammals, demonstrate generally higher renal Cd levels than 

carnivores. The moose (Alces alces), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and hare (Lepus europeus

and Lepus timidus) were suitable as biomonitors because of their common occurrence and 

uniform geographical distribution. The eider duck (Somateria mollissima) is suggested as a 

biomonitor of Cd for the aquatic environment. The accumulation rate of Cd in the kidneys is 

rapid with Cd levels 10 wk after hatching. Juvenile birds should be collected for monitoring 

purposes before leaving their feeding domains at the end of the summer. 

Frank, Adrian. 1986. Lead fragments in tissues from wild birds: A cause of misleading analytical 

results. Sci. Total Environ. 54:275-281. 

Rec #: 487 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; common eider; Somateria mollissima; long-tailed duck; Clangula 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

88 

hyemalis; liver; kidney; Sweden; Europe 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Seriously damaged eider ducks (Somateria mollissima) and long-tailed ducks 

(Clangula hyemalis) were shot in connection with an oil spill in 1974. Liver and kidney tissues 

were analyzed for environmental pollutants and lead analysis gave irreproducible results. By 

means of X-ray photographs, X-ray-dense particles could be observed in the tissues. 

The foreign particles were extracted by dissolution of the organ tissues in Soluene-350 (Packard 

Instruments Co. Inc) and then washed with toluene. The insoluble particles consisted of lead and 

bone splinters of varying size. The form of the former ranged from irregular fragments to dust, 

and arose by disruption of lead pellets upon collision with bone tissue. 

Birds shot with lead pellets should not be used for lead determination unless careful X-ray 

investigations are made prior to the chemical analysis. Determinations should be made on at least 

two different samples of the tissue examined. 

Frank, Richard and Van Hove Holdrinet, Micheline. 1975. Residue of organochlorine 

compounds and mercury in birds' eggs from the Niagara Peninsula, Ontario. Arch. Environ. 

Contam. Toxicol. 3(2):205-218. 

Rec #: 19 

KEYWORDS: egg; biomagnification; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; dieldrin; metals; Hg; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-crowned night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; black tern; 

Chlidonias niger; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Ontario; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine insecticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and total Hg were 

detected in eggs collected in 1971 from 20 species of birds from the Niagara Peninsula. Eggs 

from carnivorous species at the top of the aquatic food chain had the highest mean residues of 

total DDT (7.6-22.4 ppm), PCB (3.5-74.0 ppm), and total Hg (0.64-0.83 ppm). Eggs from 

herbivorous and insectivorous birds of both aquatic and terrestrial environments contained much 

lower residues. Eggs from some terrestrial carnivores (red-tailed hawk and great horned owl) 

also had relatively high residues, but levels were much lower than those found in eggs from 

aquatic-feeding carnivores. PBC residues were slightly lower in eggs among the terrestrial 

feeding species (0.05-2.0 ppm) than among the aquatic feeders (0.14-4.0 ppm) and tended to be 

lower in eggs from terrestrial species collected in rural rather than in city environs. Levels of 

total DDT were similar in both groups with eggs from terrestrial feeders containing mean 

residues between 0.15 and 2.64 ppm, and in those from aquatic feeders between 0.33 and 2.79 

ppm. 

Franson, J. Christian; Hollmén, Tuula; Poppenga, Robert H.; Hario, Martti; Kilpi, Mikael; and 

Smith, Milton R. 2000. Selected trace elements and organochlorines: Some findings in blood and 

eggs of nesting common eiders (Somateria mollissima) from Finland. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 

19(5):1340-1347. 

Rec #: 313 

KEYWORDS: common eider; Somateria mollissima; egg; blood; metals; Pb; Se; Hg; DDTs; 

organochlorines; Baltic Sea; Finland; Europe; effects; toxicology; ALAD 

ABSTRACT: In 1997 and 1998, we collected blood samples from nesting adult female common 

eiders (Somateria mollissima) at five locations in the Baltic Sea near coastal Finland and 

analyzed them for lead, selenium, mercury, and arsenic. Eggs were collected from three locations 

in 1997 for analysis of selenium, mercury, arsenic, and 17 organochlorines (OCs). Mean blood 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

89 

lead concentrations varied by location and year and ranged from 0.02 ppm (residues in blood on 

wet weight basis) to 0.12 ppm, although one bird had 14.2 ppm lead in its blood. Lead residues 

in the blood of eiders were positively correlated with the stage of incubation, and lead inhibited 

the activity of the enzyme delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) in the blood. Selenium 

concentrations in eider blood varied by location, with means of 1.26 to 2.86 ppm. Median 

residues of selenium and mercury in eider eggs were 0.55 and 0.10 ppm (residues in eggs on 

fresh weight basis), respectively, and concentrations of both selenium and mercury in eggs were 

correlated with those in blood. Median concentrations of p,p'-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene 

in eggs ranged from 13.1 to 29.6 ppb, but all other OCs were below detection limits. The 

residues of contaminants that we found in eggs were below concentrations generally considered 

to affect avian reproduction. The negative correlation of ALAD activity with blood lead 

concentrations is evidence of an adverse physiological effect of lead exposure in this population. 

Franson, J. Christian; Petersen, Margaret R.; Meteyer, Carol U.; and Smith, Milton R. 1995. 

Lead poisoning of spectacled eiders (Somateria fischeri) and of a common eider (Somateria 

mollissima) in Alaska. J. Wildl. Dis. 31(2):268-271. 

Rec #: 312 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; effects; metals; Pb; blood; liver; spectacled eider; 

Somateria fischeri; common eider; Somateria mollissima

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Lead poisoning was diagnosed in four spectacled eiders (Somateria fischeri) and 

one common eider (Somateria mollissima) found dead or moribund at the Yukon Delta National 

Wildlife Refuge, Alaska (USA) in 1992, 1993, and 1994. Ingested lead shot was found in the 

lower esophagus of one spectacled eider and in the gizzard of the common eider. Lead 

concentrations in the livers of the spectacled eiders were 26 to 38 ppm wet weight, and 52 ppm 

wet weight in the liver of the common eider. A blood sample collected from one of the 

spectacled eiders before it was euthanized had a lead concentration of 8.5 ppm wet weight. This 

is the first known report of lead poisoning in the spectacled eider, recently listed as a threatened 

species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

Fry, D. Michael. 1995. Reproductive effects in birds exposed to pesticides and industrial 

chemicals. Environ. Health Perspect. 103(7):165-171. 

Rec #: 2 

KEYWORDS: review; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; HCHs; HCB; toxaphene; 

chlordanes; PCDDs; PCDFs; hydrocarbons; PAHs; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Environmental contamination by agricultural chemicals and industry waste 

disposal results in adverse effects on reproduction of exposed birds. The diversity of pollutants 

results in physiological effects at several levels, including direct effects on breeding adults as 

well as developmental effects on the embryos. The effects on embryos include mortality or 

reduced hatchability, failure of chicks to thrive (wasting syndrome), and teratological effects 

producing skeletal abnormalities and impaired differentiation of the reproductive and nervous 

systems through mechanisms of hormonal mimicking of estrogens. The range of chemical 

effects on adult birds covers acute mortality, sublethal stress, reduced fertility, suppression egg 

formation, eggshell thinning, and impaired incubation and chick rearing behaviors. The types of 

pollutants shown to cause reproductive effects include organochlorine pesticides and industrial 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

90 

pollutants, organophosphate pesticides, petroleum hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and in a fewer 

number of reports, herbicides, and fungicides. o,p'-DDT, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and 

mixtures of organochlorines have been identified as environmental estrogens affecting 

populations of gulls breeding in polluted "hot spots" in southern California, the Great Lakes, and 

Puget Sound. Estrogenic organochlorines represent an important class of toxicants to birds 

because differentiation of the avian reproductive system is estrogen dependent. 

Furness, R. W.; Muirhead, S. J.; and Woodburn, M. 1986. Using bird feathers to measure 

mercury in the environment: Relationships between mercury content and moult. Mar. Pollut. 

Bull. 17(1):27-30. 

Rec #: 299 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; feather; great skua; Catharacta skua; Atlantic petrel; Pterodroma 

incerta; soft-plumaged petrel; Pterodroma mollis; Kerguelen petrel; Pterodroma brevirostris; 

great shearwater; Puffinus gravis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; northern fulmar; 

Fulmarus glacialis; Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; Shetland; Great Britain; Europe; 

Atlantic Ocean 

ABSTRACT: Feathers can be used to monitor mercury levels in marine, freshwater and 

terrestrial ecosystems. Previous studies have often failed to take into account the great 

differences in mercury levels between feathers of individual birds. Feathers replaced early in the 

moulting sequence have higher levels of mercury than those moulted later. The widely held idea 

that mercury levels in feathers reflect dietary intake at the time of feather growth is not supported 

by our data. We suggest that the amount of mercury stored in body tissues is the main factor 

determining levels in plumage. Although they are most often used, remiges and rectrices may 

not be the most suitable feathers if mercury levels in birds are to be examined: body feathers 

provide the most representative sample for estimating whole-bird mercury content. 

Furness, R. W.; Thompson, D. R.; and Becker, P. H. 1995. Spatial and temporal variation in 

mercury contamination of seabirds in the North Sea. In: Franke, H-D. and Luening, K. (Eds.) 

The Challenge to Marine Biology in a Changing World. Hamburg (HFO): Biologische Anstalt 

Helgoland,. Helgoländer Meeresunters. 49(1-4):605-615. 

Rec #: 58 

KEYWORDS: feather; North Sea; Scotland; Germany; Europe; metals; Hg; organometallics; 

organic Hg; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common 

murre; Uria aalge; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common tern; Sterna hirundo; 

spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Once the moult patterns have been taken into account, feather methylmercury 

levels can be used to accurately measure the mercury burdens of seabirds. We used body feathers 

from live seabirds and from museum collections to examine geographical and temporal patterns 

of mercury contamination in the North Sea. This approach identifies an increase in mercury 

concentrations in seabirds of the German North Sea coast during the last 100 years, especially 

high levels during the 1940s, and reduced contamination in the last few years. Comparisons 

among populations suggest that some increases in mercury levels are predominantly due to local 

pollution inputs, as on the German coast, while in other areas deposition from jet stream 

circulation of global contamination may be the major contributor. Mercury levels are far higher 

in seabirds from the German North Sea coast than in populations from the North and West North 

Sea or from most areas of the North Atlantic. We advocate the use of museum collections of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

91 

birds for studies of long-term changes in levels of mercury contamination. 

Furness, Robert W.; Thompson, David R.; and Walsh, Paul M. 1990. Evidence from biological 

samples for historical changes in global metal pollution. In: Furness, Robert W. and Rainbow, 

Philip S. (Eds.). Heavy Metals in the Marine Environment. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 219-

225. 

Rec #: 199 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; metals; Hg; Cd; Pb; feather; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; 

common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Baltic Sea; Kattegat; Atlantic 

Ocean; Europe; temporal trends 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: A review is made of research work using historical biological material to assess 

time trends in metal levels in the environment either to detect instances of local pollution or to 

seek evidence for global trends. An evaluation is also made of the value of this approach in 

current and future studies, considering in particular the metals cadmium, mercury and lead. 

Particular to arctic seabirds, mercury concentration in feathers have increased from the pre-1900s 

to 1960s-70s. 

Gabrielsen, Geir Wing and Henriksen, Espen O. 2001. Persistent organic pollutants in Arctic 

animals in the Barents Sea area and at Svalbard: Levels and effects. Memoirs of National 

Institute of Polar Research. 54:349-364. 

Rec #: 432 

KEYWORDS: review; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Barents Sea; Norway; Svalbard; 

Europe; toxicology; vitamin A; EROD; CYP1A; cytochrome P450; porphyrin; organochlorines; 

PCDDs; PCBs; DDTs; mirex; liver; effects; temporal trends 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A review with many references is given. At Svalbard and in the Barents Sea area, 

high levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) have been found in glaucous gull (Larus 

hyperboreus), arctic fox (Alopex lagopus) and polar bear (Ursus maritimus). Studies of the 

possible toxic effects on the hormone-, vitamin-, enzyme-, immune- and reproduction system 

have been conducted during the last 5-10 years. Data obtained both from laboratory and field 

studies indicate that the present POP levels have an influence on biochemical-, physiologicaland immunological parameters in glaucous gull and polar bear. In these 2 species, studies are 

currently being conducted to relate POP levels to biologic/toxic effects both on individuals and 

populations. 

Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; Skaare, Janneche Utne; Polder, Anuschka; and Bakken, Vidar. 1995. 

Chlorinated hydrocarbons in glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) in the southern part of 

Svalbard. Sci. Total Environ. 160/161:337-346. 

Rec #: 41 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Norway; 

Europe; toxicology; organochlorines; HCHs; HCB; chlordanes; dieldrin; DDTs; PCBs; effects; 

biomagnification; egg; liver; brain; kidney; muscle 

ABSTRACT: In 1989, a number of glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) were found dead near a 

seabird cliff at south Svalbard. In an effort to elucidate the course of death, 12 individuals were 

sent to the Central Veterinary Institute for autopsy and analysis of chlorinated pesticides and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

92 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in samples of liver, kidney, brain and muscle. Eggs of 

common and Brünnich’s guillemots constitute important food for glaucous gulls during the 

nestling period, thus 13 eggs (3 eggs from common and 10 eggs from Brünnich's guillemots) 

from the same area were also analyzed for organochlorines. The autopsy of the birds did not 

reveal any specific cause of death. The following chlorinated pesticides were analyzed: 

hexachlorobenzene (HCB), hexachlorocyclohexanes (alpha -, beta -, gamma -HCH), chlordanes 

(oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, heptachlor and heptachlor epoxide), the drin group (aldrin, 

dieldrin) and the DDT group (o,p', p,p'DDT, DDD and DDE). Relatively low hepatic 

concentrations of dieldrin were found (n.d.-0.17 mg/kg wet weight (w.w.), mean 0.04), capital 

sigma HCH (n.d.-0.14 mg/kg w.w., mean 0.02), HCB (0.03-1.01 mg/kg w.w., mean 0.51), 

oxychlordane (0.01-1.85 mg/kg w.w., mean 1.05), p,p'DDE (0.81-5.41 mg/kg w.w., mean 2.98), 

o,p'DDD (0-0.52 mg/kg w.w., mean 0.14) and capital sigma DDT (0.9-6.25 mg/kg w.w., mean 

2.92). Levels of the other chlorinated pesticides were below the quantification level. Very high 

concentrations of PCBs were found. The capital sigma PCB (sum of wet weight concentrations 

of the 21 individual congeners, the IUPAC numbers 28, 52, 74, 99, 101, 110, 118, 114, 153, 105, 

141, 138, 183, 128, 187, 156, 157, 180, 170, 194 and 209) in hepatic tissue was 0.8-32.3 mg/kg 

w.w. (mean 16.0), in brain 0.9-29.5 mg/kg w.w. (mean 14.8), in kidney 0.4-21.4 mg/kg w.w. 

(mean 9.7) and in muscle 0.5-6.0 mg/kg w.w. (mean 3.1). The concentrations of the individual 

PCB congeners are also given. Relatively low concentrations of all the organochlorines were 

found in guillemot eggs, mean concentrations of capital sigma DDT and PCBs were 0.25 and 

0.47 mg/kg w.w., respectively. A toxicological evaluation of the PCB results is difficult; 

however, it cannot be excluded that PCBs might have contributed to the death of the gulls. 

Giesy, John P. and Kannan, Kurunthachalam. 2001. Global distribution of perfluorooctane 

sulfonate in wildlife. Environ. Sci. Technol. 35(7):1339-1342. 

Rec #: 364 

KEYWORDS: PFOS; blood; egg; liver; Great Lakes; North America; Canada; Pacific Ocean; 

Arctic Ocean; herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The global distribution of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a fluorinated organic 

contaminant. PFOS measured in the tissues of wildlife, including, fish, birds, and marine 

mammals is reported. Some of the species studied include bald eagles, polar bears, albatrosses, 

and various species of seals. Samples were collected from urbanized areas in North America, 

especially the Great Lakes region and coastal marine areas and rivers, and Europe. Samples 

were also collected from a number of more remote, less urbanized locations such as the Arctic 

and the North Pacific Oceans. The results demonstrated that PFOS is widespread in the 

environment. Concentrations of PFOS in animals from relatively more populated and 

industrialized regions, such as the North American Great Lakes, Baltic Sea, and Mediterranean 

Sea, were greater than those in animals from remote marine locations. Fish-eating, predatory 

animals such as mink and bald eagles contained concentrations of PFOS that were greater than 

the concentrations in their diets. This suggests that PFOS can bioaccumulate to higher trophic 

levels of the food chain. Currently available data indicate that the concentrations of PFOS in 

wildlife are less than those required to cause adverse effects in laboratory animals. 

Gilbertson, Michael. 2001. Canadian wildlife service's herring gull monitoring program: 

importance to the development of environmental policy on organohalogens. Environ. Rev. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

93 

9(4):261-267. 

Rec #: 425 

KEYWORDS: review; herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; disease; abnormalities; toxicology; 

effects; organochlorines; PCDDs; Great Lakes; Canada; North America 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A review and discussion. The biological context for the selection of the herring 

gull (Larus argentatus), from a long list of candidate species, as an indicator of the restoration of 

Great Lakes water quality is further elaborated. Embryo mortality and deformities in herring 

gull chicks led to the hypothesis that the Lake Ontario population was exhibiting chick edema 

disease. Subsequent observation of the suite of lesions associated with chick edema disease in 

herring gull chicks led to the hypothesis that the Great Lakes were contaminated with 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins. Forensic toxicology, as a collaboration of environmental 

chemistry, biology and pathology, could form a rational basis for policy decisions about remedial 

actions to restore extirpated fish and wildlife populations and to protect public health. 

Gilman, A. P.; Fox, G. A.; Peakall, D. B.; Teeple, S. M.; Carroll, T. R.; and Haymes, G. T. 

1977. Reproductive parameters and egg contaminant levels of Great Lakes herring gulls. J. 

Wildl. Manage. 41(3):458-468. 

Rec #: 149 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; North America; Great Lakes; egg; 

organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; chlordanes; HCB; PCBs; metals; Hg; effects; 

reproductive success; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Poor reproductive success and declines in colony size of herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus) have occurred in Lake Ontario at a time that dramatic increases in this species have 

been reported on the Atlantic seaboard. In 1975 herring gull productivity on Scotch Bonnet 

Island, Lake Ontario, was 0.15 chicks per pair of adults, one-tenth the productivity of colonies 

studies on Lakes Erie, Huron and Superior. Reduced nest site defense and decreases in eggs 

found, egg hatchability and chick survival were observed in the Lake Ontario colony. The major 

causes of egg failure were disappearance and embryonic death. Hatching success of Lake 

Ontario eggs by artificial incubation was 23-25 % compared to 53-79 % for eggs from other 

areas. Analysis of eggs from 9 gull colonies for organochlorine contaminants indicated that the 

pattern of relative contamination was: Lake Ontario > Michigan > Superior > Huron > Erie. 

Mirex levels were nearly 10 times higher in Lake Ontario than in the other lakes. Movements of 

herring gulls within the Great Lakes basin are offered as an explanation of variation in individual 

egg residues in each colony and the moderately high levels of chemical residues in some Lake 

Superior eggs. 

Gilman, Andrew P.; Peakall, David B.; Hallett, Douglas J.; Fox, Glen A.; and Norstrom, Ross J. 

1979. Herring gulls (Larus argentatus) as monitors of contamination in the Great Lakes. 

Animals As Monitors of Environmental Pollutants. Symposium on Pathobiology of 

Environmental Pollutants: Animal Models and Wildlife as Monitors, University of Connecticut, 

1977. 280-289. 

Rec #: 141 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; biomagnification; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great 

Lakes; North America; organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; mirex; HCB; PCBs; 

metals; Hg; reproductive success; abnormalities 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

94 

ABSTRACT: The herring gull (L. argentatus) is at the top of several food chains. Adults of this 

species are essentially year-round residents of the Great Lakes. The levels of contaminants found 

in them are higher than those in other Laridae in the Great Lakes. Their ability to bioaccumulate 

high loads of persistent contaminants allows investigators to identify compounds that would be 

difficult to determine in lower trophic levels. Chlorinated hydrocarbons and other persistent 

pollutants accumulate to high levels in gull tissues and are deposited into the eggs. Egg 

contaminant levels reflect the levels of lake contamination. High levels of PCB's, DDE, and 

mirex in Lake Ontario herring gulls and their association with early embryonic mortality, chick 

deformity, and aberrant adult behavior were examined. 

Gochfeld, M. 1997. Spatial patterns in a bioindicator: Heavy metal and selenium concentration in 

eggs of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) in the New York Bight. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 33(1):63-70. 

Rec #: 278 

KEYWORDS: metals; Se; Pb; Cd; Hg; Cr; Mn; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; NY; NJ; 

USA; North America; spatial variations; toxicology 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of selenium and five heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, 

chromium, and manganese) in the eggs of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) were studied at six 

breeding colonies in the New York Bight to detect locational differences and to explore their use 

as a bioindicator of point source or nonpoint source pollution. The herring gull is widespread in 

North America, Europe, and Asia, and has urban-adapted counterparts in the southern 

hemisphere as well. We anticipated that the chromium contamination at Jersey City and high 

levels of manganese in industrial releases to the Passaic River would be reflected in the nearest 

colony (Shooter's Island), and that lead contamination from bridge remediation would be 

apparent in the Jamaica Bay colonies. There were significant locational differences in all metal 

levels, although the patterns were not the same for all metals. Shooter's Island in Newark Bay 

ranked first or second for five of the elements, but inexplicably had the lowest mercury level. 

Cadmium levels were highest at Canarsie Pol in Jamaica Bay, but mercury levels were highest at 

the relatively isolated Lavallette colony in northern Barnegat Bay. Chromium and manganese 

levels were indeed highest at Shooter's Island, but the lead levels in Jamaica Bay were only 

intermediate. We predicted that the essential trace elements, manganese, chromium, and 

selenium, which are known to be present at relatively high concentrations in various animal 

species, would have relatively low coefficients of variation, reflecting homeostatic mechanisms. 

This was confirmed. In conclusion, herring gull egg contents can be used to monitor metal 

concentrations at nearby colonies to indicate areas of concern for particular metals. They may 

confirm suspected associations or identify hitherto unsuspected problems. 

Grand, James B.; Franson, J. Christian; Flint, Paul L.; and Petersen, Margaret R. 2002. 

Concentrations of trace elements in eggs and blood of spectacled and common eiders on the 

Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska, USA. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 21(8):1673-1678. 

Rec #: 464 

KEYWORDS: metals; As; Cd; Pb; Hg; Se; egg; blood; spectacled eider; Somateria fischeri; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima; AK; USA; North America; reproductive success; effects 

ABSTRACT: We examined the relations among nesting success, egg viability, and blood and 

egg concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, Hg, and Se in a threatened population of spectacled eiders 

(Somateria fischeri ) and a sympatric population of common eiders (S. mollissima) on the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

95 

Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, Alaska, USA, during 1995 and 1996. During the early breeding 

season, males and females had mean Se concentrations in their blood of 19.2 μg/g and 12.8 μg/g 

wet weight, respectively Blood Se concentrations of females were correlated with egg 

concentrations During brood rearing, blood Se levels were higher in adult females than in 

ducklings. Blood concentrations of Pb in spectacled eider females were higher than in common 

eider females captured at hatching, but blood concentrations of Se were similar. Trace element 

concentrations were not related to nest success or egg viability. We submit that nest success and 

egg viability of spectacled eiders are not related to concentrations of the trace elements we 

measured. Because blood Se concentrations declined rapidly through the breeding season and 

were not related to nest success or egg viability, we suggest that spectacled eiders are exposed to 

high concentrations of Se during winter that pose little threat to this population. 

Grasman, K. A.; Scanlon, P. F.; and Fox, G. A. 2000. Geographic variation in hematological 

variables in adult and prefledgling herring gulls (Larus argentatus) and possible associations 

with organochlorine exposure. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 38(2):244-253. 

Rec #: 329 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; toxicology; 

TEQs; EROD; porphyrin; blood; liver; Great Lakes; Canada; North America 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The objectives of this study were (1) to describe variation in hematological values 

found in adult and prefledgling herring gulls (Larus argentatus) over a large geographic area, (2) 

to investigate relationships between hematological variables and other physiological indices, and 

(3) to examine potential associations between exposure to organochlorines and hematological 

variables. During 1991-93, we sampled 160 breeding adult gulls from 13 colonies and 101 4-

week-old gulls from 11 colonies. All colonies were in the Great Lakes ecosystem, except for two 

colonies on Lake Winnipeg and the Atlantic coast. The hematological values measured in this 

study were similar to published values for herring gulls and related species. Significant intersite 

differences were found in hematological variables. Sex had little or no influence on leukocyte 

variables. Adults had lower total leukocyte counts and higher heterophil to lymphocyte ratios 

than chicks. PCV was lower in adult females than males. In adults, total leukocyte and total 

heterophil numbers were negatively associated with liver activity of ethoxyresorufin-Odeethylase (EROD) and concentrations of highly carboxylated porphyrins (HCPs), two 

biomarkers of organochlorine exposure. Total leukocyte and total heterophil numbers were 

positively associated with liver concentrations of DDE (1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(pchlorophenyl)ethylene), and total lymphocytes were associated positively with PCB 

(polychlorinated biphenyl) and HCP concentrations. The heterophil to lymphocyte ratio was 

negatively associated with liver EROD activity and HCPs. In chicks, there was a positive 

association between the heterophil to lymphocyte ratio and HG-TEQs (dioxin toxicity 

equivalents calculated using herring gull-specific equivalency factors). PCV was associated with 

some measures of contaminant exposure in adults and chicks. Additional research is needed to 

elucidate causal relationships between hematological indices and such factors as contaminants, 

disease, and nutrition. 

Grasman, Keith. A.; Fox, Glen A.; Scanlon, Patrick F.; and Ludwig, James P. 1996. 

Organochlorine-associated immunosuppression in prefledgling caspian terns and herring gulls 

from the Great Lakes: An ecoepidemiological study. Environ. Health Perspect. 104(4):829-842. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

96 

Rec #: 1 

KEYWORDS: biomarkers; toxicology; immunology; vitamin A; organochlorines; PCBs; 

DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; HCB; chlordanes; PCDDs; TEQs; Great Lakes; Canada; North America; 

egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia

ABSTRACT: The objectives of study were to determine whether contaminant-associated 

immunosuppression occurs in prefledgling herring gulls and Caspian terns from the Great Lakes 

and to evaluate immunological biomarkers for monitoring health effects in wild birds. During 

1992 to 1994, immunological responses and related variables were measured in prefledgling 

chicks at colonies distributed across a broad gradient of organochlorine contamination (primarily 

polychlorinated biphenyls), which was measured in eggs. The phytohemagglutinin skin test was 

used to assess T-lymphocyte function. In both species, there was a strong exposure-response 

relationship between organochlorines and suppressed T-cell-mediated immunity. Suppression 

was most severe (30-45 %) in colonies in Lake Ontario (1992) and Saginaw Bay (1992-1994) for 

both species and in western Lake Erie (1992) for herring gulls. Both species exhibited 

biologically significant differences among sites in anti-sheep red blood cells antibody titers, but 

consistent exposure-response relationships with organochlorines were not observed. In Caspian 

terns and, to a lesser degree, in herring gulls, there was an exposure-response relationship 

between organochlorines and reduced plasma retinol (vitamin A). In 1992, altered White blood 

cell numbers were associated with elevated organochlorine concentrations in Caspian terns but 

not herring gulls. The immunological and hematological biomarkers used in this study revealed 

contaminant-associated health effects in wild birds. An epidemiological analysis strongly 

supported the hypothesis that suppression of T-cell-mediated immunity was associated with high 

perinatal exposure to persistent organochlorine contaminants. 

Greichus, Y. A.; Worman, J. J.; Pearson, M. A.; and Call, D. J. 1974. Analyses of 

polychlorinated biphenyls in bird tissues and Aroclor standards with gas chromatography and 

mass spectrometry. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol. 11(2):113-120. 

Rec #: 451 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; white pelican; Pelecanus 

erythrorhynchos; SD; USA; North America; carcass; egg; fat; organochlorines; PCBs 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) in Aroclor 1254 [11097-69-1] and Aroclor 

1260 [11096-82-5] and in cormorant carcass and eggs and pelican fat were identified by gasliquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, and the numbers of Cl's in the PCB's were 

detected by observing the appropriate m/e values of the mol. ions and were verified by the 

relative intensities of the peaks in the mol. ion clusters. The relative retention times (rrt) of the 

major peaks in the gas chromatograms of the cormorant and pelican samples were correlated 

with the rrt of the major peaks in the standards via their relative intensities and identical mass 

spectral fragmentation patterns. Multiple component peaks were verified by observations of the 

correct mol. weight and mol. ion clusters for each PCB. Thus, all major PCB's occurring in 

cormorant carcass and eggs and pelican fat also occurred in Aroclors 1254 and (or) 1260. The 

pattern of PCB's found in the biological samples was not the same as those in Aroclors 1254 or 

1260, and further changes in pattern were observed when comparing cormorant carcass and eggs. 

Greichus, Yvonne A.; Greichus, A.; and Emerick, R. J. 1973. Insecticides, polychlorinated 

biphenyls, and mercury in wild cormorants, pelicans, their eggs, food, and environment. Bull 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

97 

Environ Contam Toxicol. 9(6):321-328. 

Rec #: 452 

KEYWORDS: SD; USA; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; dieldrin; DDTs; metals; Hg; 

double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; white pelican; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; 

carcass; egg; muscle; liver; kidney; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The concentration of organochlorine insecticide residues in and around Lake 

Poinsett, South Dakota, decreased in the order fish>bottom sediments>water. The levels of 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were greater in fish than in bottom sediments, and the PCB 

levels in both bottom sediments and fish were higher than those of insecticides. Mercury [7439-

97-6] residues were not detected in water, bottom sediments, or fish except carp which also had 

the highest levels of insecticides and PCB residues. The bodies of adult cormorants and pelicans 

had 250 and 280 times greater insecticide levels, respectively, than fish and 60 and 30 times, 

respectively, more PCB. Levels of PCB and insecticides in nestling cormorants apparently 

reflected the levels in local fish as both the fish and young birds had more PCB residues than 

insecticides whereas the opposite was true with the adults. The insecticide and PCB levels in 

cormorant eggs reflected body levels but in pelican eggs they did not. 

Greichus, Yvonne A. and Hannon, Michael R. 1973. Distribution and biochemical effects of 

DDT, DDD and DDE in penned double-crested cormorants. Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 

26(4):483-494. 

Rec #: 416 

KEYWORDS: brain; heart; liver; carcass; metabolism; organochlorines; DDTs; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; toxicology; effects; vitamin A; carotene; CBC; dosing study; 

gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Penned double-crested cormorants were fed 2, 5, and 10 ng of a combination of 

DDT (I) [50-29-3], DDD (II) [72-54-8], and DDE (III) [72-55-9] in their daily diet; birds 

stressed by a 1/2 decrease in food after the cessation of 9 weeks of treatment and birds that died 

of I toxicity showed a marked increase in brain and liver residues and a decrease in carcass 

residues. Higher brain residue levels were correlated with decreased body weight, and carcass 

lipid content. Brain concentrations were 24-85 ppm in birds that died of toxic effects and 0.4-29 

ppm in survivors, so 30ppm indicated toxicity. Brain concentrations of I and metabolites in wild 

cormorants indicated no immediate danger of toxicity. A decrease in total liver vitamin A 

[11103-57-4], and liver and heart weights as percentage of total body weight was also observed 

after treatment. Liver weight was negatively correlated with brain concentrations of total I, II, 

and III. 

Haffner, G. Douglas; Straughan, Cameron A.; Weseloh, D. V. Chip; and Lazar, Rodica. 1997. 

Levels of polychlorinated biphenyls, including coplanar congeners, and 2,3,7,8-T 4CDD toxic 

equivalents in double-crested cormorant and herring gull eggs from Lake Erie and Lake Ontario: 

A comparison between 1981 and 1992. J. Great Lakes Res. 23(1):52-60. 

Rec #: 301 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; TEQs; toxicology; temporal trends; egg; North 

America; Great Lakes; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus

ABSTRACT: Eggs of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and herring gulls 

(Larus argentatus) collected from Lakes Erie and Ontario during 1981 and 1992 were analyzed 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

98 

for PCB congener concentrations, including non-ortho congeners 77, 126, and 169. Total PCB in 

herring gulls, measured as Aroclor 1254/1260, was significantly lower in 1992, although 

differences in chemical concentrations in Lake Erie birds were not of the same magnitude as 

those observed in Lake Ontario. Changes in concentration of total PCB in cormorant populations 

were not significant in Lake Ontario, and only a small change was observed in Lake Erie 

cormorants. In 1981, cormorants and herring gull eggs were similarly contaminated in Lake 

Ontario and Lake Erie, but in 1992, Lake Erie eggs were significantly more contaminated than 

those from Lake Ontario. An examination of changes in concentrations of individual congeners 

suggested that in cormorants, the decrease in PCB concentrations was due primarily to the loss of 

low Kow congeners. All congeners, however, contributed to the decline of PCBs in herring gulls. 

Toxic equivalents (TEQs) estimates revealed that congener 126 dominated the TEQs in both 

species in Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, and were highest in herring gulls. Although estimates of 

total TEQs in herring gulls in both lakes were lower in 1992, there was little change in TEQs in 

double-crested cormorants. These results support the conclusion that chemical accumulation 

patterns are regulated to some degree by both ecological and limnological processes. 

Hallett, D. J.; Norstrom, R. J.; Onuska, F.; and Comba, M. 1978. Incidence of chlorinated 

benzenes and other lower molecular weight organochlorines in Lake Ontario herring gulls. In: 

Extended Abstracts of the International Symposium on the Analysis of Hydrocarbons and 

Halogenated Hydrocarbons, #40, University of Toronto, Ontario. 

Rec #: 553 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; benzenes; HCB; Great Lakes; North America; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; egg 

NOTES: NOT ABLE TO OBTAIN; SEE #519 FOR INFO 

Hallett, D. J.; Norstrom, R. J.; Onuska, F. I.; and Comba, M. E. 1982. Incidence of chlorinated 

benzenes and chlorinated ethylenes in Lake Ontario herring gulls. Chemosphere. 11(3):277-285. 

Rec #: 519 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; North America; Great Lakes; 

organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; benzenes; ethylenes; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Great Lakes Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) and their eggs have proven to be 

useful integrators on a lakewide basis of high molecular weight, relatively involatile 

organochlorine pollutants such as PCBs. A search for relatively volatile organochlorine 

compounds by GC/MS also revealed the presence of tri- and tetrachloroethylene, and isomers of 

di-, tri-, tetra-, penta- and hexachlorobenzene in the body lipid of adult Herring Gulls from Lake 

Ontario. Analysis of pooled eggs from colonies throughout the Great Lakes in 1978 showed that 

pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene were ubiquitous contaminants at levels from 14–50 

ng/kg and 90–350 ng/kg, respectively. Hexachlorobenzene levels were 2–3 times higher in Lake 

Ontario than the other lakes, whereas pentachlorobenzene was more evenly distributed 

geographically. Levels of 1,2,3,4-tetra-, 1,2,4,5-tetra- and 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene near the 

detection limit of 10–20 ng/kg were found in a few samples. 

Hallett, D. J.; Shear, H.; Weseloh, D. V.; and Mineau, P. 1981. Surveillance of wildlife 

contaminants on the Great Lakes. Verh. Internat. Verein. Limnol. 21:1734-1740. 

Rec #: 286 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; egg; temporal trends; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

99 

North America; Great Lakes 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The use of biological indicator species, such as herring gulls (Larus argentatus) 

which represent the top trophic level of the Great Lakes aquatic food web, has proven to be an 

effective, holistic approach to contaminant monitoring. Complementary programs acquiring data 

from predatory fish, and data from sediment are now allowing proper interpretation of the 

apparent dynamic trends in organochlorine residues within the food chain. Together they should 

provide an early warning of serious problems related to contaminants which could jeopardize the 

balance of the Great Lakes ecosystem. 

Hannon, Michael Robert. 1972. Distribution and physiological effects of DDT, DDD, and DDE 

in penned double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax a. auritus). Brookings, SD, USA: South 

Dakota State Univ. 52 pp. 

Rec #: 411 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; organochlorines; DDTs; 

CBC; metals; Ca; Na; P; feces; blood; brain; carcass; feather; SD; USA; North America; gender 

differences; dosing study; effects; toxicology; vitamin A; carotene 

ABSTRACT: Levels, distribution and excretion of DDT, DDD and DDE were determined in 

tissues of penned cormorants administered doses of 2, 5 and 10 mg of total DDT and metabolites 

(40 percent DDT, 30 percent DDD and 30 percent DDE) daily in their diet, approximately 5, 12 

and 25 ppm. Analysis of residues was by electron capture gas chromatography. 

Carcass retention of total experimental dose was estimated at 32 to 54 percent. Analysis of 

excreta indicated that 19 to 29 percent of the daily dose was lost via this media. Male cormorants 

retained greater proportions of total experimental dose than females, while females that survived 

retained more than those that died during the experiment. 

Average DDE, DDD and DDT concentration increased with higher dosage in all sample types 

analyzed. DDE was detected at the highest concentrations in all samples, followed by DDD, then 

DDT. DDE was in greater and DDT lesser proportion than present in treatment. 

Birds subjected to a period of two weeks on reduced diet after cessation of insecticide treatment 

had increased brain and decreased carcass residue concentrations. Increased brain and decreased 

carcass residues were also associated with death. 

All birds diagnosed on the basis of tremors and convulsions as dying of insecticide toxicosis 

were females, suggesting a greater susceptibility of young female cormorants to DDT toxicosis. 

Residue levels differed markedly between, females that died on treatment and those that 

survived. Brain DDD concentrations showed the clearest separation between survivors and dead. 

Ranges were 1 to 24 ppm in survivors and 24 to 84 ppm in those that died. 

Carcass lipid content declined with reduced diet and death, while brain lipid varied little with 

diet, death or sex. Higher brain residue levels were significantly correlated with decreased body 

weight (P <.01) and decreased carcass lipid content (P < .05). 

Liver vitamin A and carotene levels appeared to be little affected by administration of DDT, 

DDD or DDE. 

Analysis of variance showed significant treatment differences in liver (P < .05) and heart (P 

<.05) weights, but not in brain or spleen weights. Stress appeared to have the greatest effect on 

organ weights. A significant and negative correlation was found between liver weight and brain 

levels of DDE, DDD and DDT (P < .05). 

Statistical analysis of blood chemistry data failed to show significant treatment effects on 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

100 

parameters measured (calcium, sodium, phosphorus, blood urea nitrogen, total protein, 

hematocrit and hemoglobin). 

Residue levels determined in wild adult cormorants were not diagnostic of immanent DDT 

toxicosis. However, concentrations present pose a potential danger, as mobilization of 

insecticide...laden carcass lipids have been shown to raise brain residues. Mobilization of the 

carcass residues determined in wild cormorants (10 ppm) could raise brain residues to a level 

diagnostic of DDT toxicosis in penned birds. 

Hario, Martti; Hirvi, Juha-Pekka; Hollmén, Tuula; and Rudbäck, Eeva. 2004. Organochlorine 

concentrations in diseased vs. healthy gull chicks from the northern Baltic. Environ. Pollut. 

127(3):411-423. 

Rec #: 477 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; chlordanes; HCB; DDTs; PCBs; toxicology; TEQs; 

lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; Finland; Baltic Sea; 

Europe; disease; effects; reproductive success; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The population decline of the nominate lesser black-backed gull Larus fuscus 

fuscus in the Gulf of Finland (northern Baltic) is caused by an exceedingly high chick mortality 

due to diseases. The chick diseases include degeneration in various internal organs (primarily 

liver), inflammations (mainly intestinal), and sepsis, the final cause of death. The hypothesis of 

starvation causing intestinal inflammations (leading to sepsis) was tested by attempting to 

reproduce lesions in apparently healthy herring gull L. argentatus chicks in captivity. The 

herring gull chicks were provided a similar low food-intake frequency as observed for the 

diseased chicks in the wild. However, empty alimentary tract per se did not induce the intestinal 

inflammations and therefore, inflammations seem to be innate or caused by other environmental 

factors in the diseased lesser black-backed chicks. They had very high concentrations of PCB in 

their liver; but the concentrations were not significantly higher than those of the healthy herring 

gull chicks, indicating a common exposure area for both species (i.e. the Baltic Sea). When 

compared to NOEL and LOEL values for TEQs in bird eggs our TEQ levels clearly exceed most 

or all of the values associated with effects. Compared with published data on fish-eating 

waterbirds, the DDE concentrations in the diseased lesser black-backed chicks were well above 

the levels previously correlated with decreased reproduction, while the residues in apparently 

healthy herring gulls were below those levels. The DDE/PCB ratio in lesser black-backs was 

significantly elevated, indicating an increased exposure to DDTs as compared with most other 

Baltic and circumpolar seabirds. The possible exposure areas of DDT in relation to differential 

migration habits of the two gull species are discussed. Elevated DDE/PCB ratio correlates with a 

high rate of chick diseases in the endangered nominate lesser black-backed gull. 

Harris, Megan L.; Wilson, Laurie K.; Norstrom, Ross J.; and Elliott, John E. 2003. Egg 

concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in double-crested 

(Phalacrocorax auritus) and pelagic (P. pelagicus) cormorants from the Strait of Georgia, 

Canada, 1973-1998. Environ. Sci. Technol. 37(5):822-831. 

Rec #: 350 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; pelagic cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax pelagicus; British Columbia; Canada; North America; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; 

toxicology; EROD; TEQs; egg; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Eggs of double-crested and pelagic cormorants were collected between 1973 and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

101 

1998 from colonies in the Strait of Georgia, BC, Canada, and assayed for concentrations of 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and non-ortho- and monoortho-biphenyls (PCBs). Double-crested cormorant eggs contained (on average) up to 433 ng kg1

 wet weight 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD, 151 ng kg-1 1,2,3,7,8-PnCDD, and 74 ng kg-1 2,3,7,8-TCDD, 

whereas pelagic cormorant eggs contained up to 300, 99, and 28 ng kg-1 wet weight of these 

respective congeners. The dominant non-ortho-PCB was CB-126, which ranged as high as 2263 

ng kg -1 in double-crested cormorant eggs. Concentrations of PCDDs and PCDFs fell 

dramatically in the early 1990s, following both severe restrictions on the use of chlorophenolic 

wood preservatives and antisapstains and a switch from molecular chlorine bleaching to 

alternative bleaching technologies at pulp mills in the region. Concentrations of PCBs did not 

show similar marked declines over time. On the basis of total TEQs >148 ng kg and previously 

published documentation of effects in siblings of the cormorant eggs analyzed here, doublecrested cormorant young may have exhibited significantly elevated EROD activity and/or brain 

asymmetries at all colonies from 1973 to 1989 and even at some colonies during the 1990s. 

Pelagic cormorant eggs collected from a few colonies in 1988-1989 also contained total TEQs 

greater than the threshold value estimated for double-crested cormorants. 

Headley, Alistair D. 1996. Heavy metal concentrations in peat profiles from the high Arctic. Sci. 

Total Environ. 177(1-3):105-111. 

Rec #: 437 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Europe; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; feces; metals; Fe; Mn; Pb; Cu; Zn; Ni 

ABSTRACT: The concentration and possible sources of heavy metal input to a high Arctic mire 

in Kongsfjord, West Spitsbergen were examined; levels of lead, copper and zinc are highest in 

the surface humus closest to the carboniferous limestone cliff upon which seabirds nest. The 

concentrations of iron, manganese, nickel, copper, zinc and lead in two cores of peat increase 

markedly in the upper 5 cm of consolidated peat, with the highest concentrations found in the 

uppermost centimeter of peat. There has, therefore, been an increase in heavy metal loading to 

this high Arctic mire within the last 100 years. This cannot be attributed to the direct input of 

heavy metals from precipitation or coal dust from the local mines as the concentrations of the 

same elements in these materials are three orders of magnitude lower. It is only in the vicinity of 

seabird colonies that this pattern is shown and the concentrations (μg g

-1 dry weight) of lead, 

copper and zinc in fecal samples of kittiwake and glaucous gull are in the range 17-32, 35-65 and 

63-260, respectively. The concentrations of these heavy metals in the feces are close to those 

found in the surface layers of humus closest to the cliff. This indicates that the seabirds are 

acting as a vector for the movement of heavy metals between the marine and terrestrial 

ecosystems. 

Hebert, C. E.; Norstrom, R. J.; Simon, M.; Braune, B. M.; Weseloh, D. V.; and Macdonald, C. R. 

1994. Temporal trends and sources of PCDDs and PCDFs in the Great Lakes: Herring gull egg 

monitoring, 1981-1991. Environ. Sci. Technol. 28(7):1268-1277. 

Rec #: 210 

KEYWORDS: egg; Great Lakes; North America; organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; herring 

gull; Larus argentatus; spatial variations; temporal trends; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Levels of individual polychlorinated dibenzodioxin (PCDD) congeners were 

measured in pooled herring gull (Larus argentatus) eggs collected from colonies in the Great 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

102 

Lakes and the St. Lawrence River between 1981 and 1991. Polychlorinated dibenzofurans 

(PCDFs) were quantified from 1984 to 1991. 2,3,7,8-TCDD, 1,2,3,7,8-PnCDD, 1,2,3,6,7,8-

HxCDD, and 2,3,4,7,8-PnCDF were detectable in all samples;1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD, OCDD, 

2,3,7,8-TCDF, 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxDF, and 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxDF were frequently detected. Eggs from 

Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron, had the highest PCDD/PCDF levels. Levels of TCDD, PnCDD, and 

HxCDD declined in most colonies between 1981 and 1984. There were no obvious temporal 

trends after 1984. Using multivariate analyses, colonies were separated into two classes based 

upon differences in egg bioaccumulation patterns. PCDD and PCDF patterns in a variety of 

potential sources were compared to these two herring gull classes. Patterns of PCDD 

accumulation were similar in herring gull eggs, lake trout, and walleye emphasizing the 

similarity of these species as regional indicators of PCDD/PCDF contamination. 

Hebert, C. E.; Shutt, J. L.; and Norstrom, R. J. 1997. Dietary changes cause temporal fluctuations 

in polychlorinated biphenyl levels in herring gull eggs from Lake Ontario. Environ. Sci. Technol. 

31(4):1012-1017. 

Rec #: 231 

KEYWORDS: North America; Great Lakes; organochlorines; PCBs; temporal trends; stable 

isotopes; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; biomagnification 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: After adjusting Lake Ontario herring gull (Larus argentatus) egg PCB 

concentrations for the influence of time, an analysis was conducted to explain the remaining 

variation in annual egg PCB concentrations. In years with cold winters and/or high alewife 

(Alosa pseudoharengus) abundance, egg PCB concentrations were greater than predicted. PCB 

levels were also greater than predicted in years when alewife condition was low. Increasing the 

proportion of alewives in the gull's diet may lead to increased PCB levels in eggs. Stable isotope 

analysis 15N/14N of herring gull eggs provided evidence supporting this hypothesis. Consumption 

of alewives by gulls (as influenced by gull metabolism, alewife abundance/condition, and 

alewife overwinter mortality) and alewife population characteristics (growth rates and age 

distribution) may be the keys to explaining fluctuations in Lake Ontario herring gull egg PCB 

levels. 

Hebert, Craig E.; Norstrom, Ross J.; and Weseloh, D. V. Chip. 1999. A quarter century of 

environmental surveillance: The Canadian Wildlife Service's Great Lakes Herring Gull 

Monitoring Program. Environ. Rev. 7(4):147-166. 

Rec #: 426 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great Lakes; Canada; North America; egg; 

temporal trends; organochlorines; mirex; benzenes; PBDEs; PCDDs; PCBs; DDTs; 

hydrocarbons; PAHs; toxicology; effects; spatial variations 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The Great Lakes Herring Gull Monitoring Program has annually provided 

information concerning levels of environmental contaminants in herring gull eggs since 1974, 

making it one of the longest running biomonitoring programs in the world. The program was 

initiated in response to observations of poor reproductive success in colonial waterbirds on the 

Great Lakes. Initial studies examined the role of halogenated hydrocarbons (HAHs) in causing 

this reproductive dysfunction. By the late 1970s, reproductive success in herring gulls had 

improved greatly and emphasis was placed on developing more sensitive indicators to measure 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

103 

the subtle effects associated with HAH exposure. Geographical and temporal trends in Great 

Lakes contamination were also elucidated. Analysis of herring gull tissues led to the 

identification of HAHs (Mirex, Photomirex, polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, 

chlorobenzenes, dioxins) previously undetected in Great Lakes upper trophic level biota. Data 

collected as part of this program have improved our understanding of contaminant sources and 

fate in the Great Lakes and have provided us with a means to assess our progress in controlling 

contaminant inputs. The extensive nature of this dataset has allowed detailed examination of the 

factors that regulate contaminant levels in this species. Most monitoring programs rely on less 

extensive datasets for the interpretation of environmental trends and may benefit from the 

mechanisms identified here. Research has also identified other stressors, e.g., dietary 

deficiencies, that may affect the success of Great Lakes herring gull populations. Ongoing 

monitoring of this species will continue to provide new insights into the dynamic Great Lakes 

ecosystem 

Hebert, Craig E.; Norstrom, Ross J.; Zhu, Jiping; and Macdonald, Colin R. 1999. Historical 

changes in PCB patterns in Lake Ontario and Green Bay, Lake Michigan, 1971 to 1982, from 

herring gull egg monitoring data. J. Great Lakes Res. 25(1):220-233. 

Rec #: 331 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; organochlorines; PCBs; Great Lakes; North 

America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Patterns of PCB congener bioaccumulation were examined in archived herring 

gull (Larus argentatus) eggs collected from Big Sister Island in Green Bay, Lake Michigan, and 

Scotch Bonnet Island in Lake Ontario from 1971 to 1982 as part of the Canadian Wildlife 

Service's Great Lakes Herring Gull Monitoring Program. Concentrations of 97 PCB congeners 

were measured. From 1971 to 1982, ecological half-lives of most congeners, particularly the trithrough hexachlorobiphenyls, were greater in eggs from Green Bay than Lake Ontario. 

Comparing sum PCB levels in eggs collected in 1971 and 1982, concentrations declined 80 % at 

Scotch Bonnet Island and 74 % at Big Sister Island. PCB congener patterns were different in 

eggs from the two colonies. Principal components analysis showed that inter-site differences in 

congener patterns became more apparent after 1976. This indicated that regional PCB sources 

were the most influential in determining patterns of biologically-available PCBs during the 1971 

to 1982 period in these two lakes, via recycling of historical PCBs from sediments or gradually 

decreasing loading. Trend analysis of selected congeners specific to Aroclors 1242, 1254, and 

1260 revealed that the rapid decline of less chlorinated congeners, observed from 1971 to 1976 

in Lake Ontario, was explained by a decrease in loading of Aroclor 1242 to the lake. At both 

colonies, ecological half life of the congeners was significantly (p < 0.001) correlated with log 

Kow and with -log HLC. Changes in PCB composition, after 1976 in Lake Ontario and from 1971 

to 1982 in Green Bay, could be explained by differences in the physical behavior of individual 

congeners affecting removal by volatilization and sedimentation. 

Heidmann, W. A.; Beyerbach, M.; Böckelmann, W.; Büthe, A.; Knüwer, H.; Peterat, B.; and 

Rüssel-Sinn, H. A. 1987. Chlorierte Kohlenwasserstoffe und Schwermetalle in tot an der 

deutschen Nordseeküste aufgefundensen Seevögeln. Die Vogelwarte. 34:126-133. 

Rec #: 554 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; DDTs; dieldrin; metals; Hg; Pb; Cd; liver; blacklegged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common eider; Somateria mollissima; common murre; Uria 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

104 

aalge; shelduck; Tadorna tadorna; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus; 

black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; oystercatcher; Haematopus ostralegus; red-throated loon; 

Gavia stellata; North Sea; Germany; Europe; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Residues of chlorinated hydrocarbons and heavy metals in 149 livers of nine 

species of birds living on sea and coast were determined. These birds were found dead on the 

North Sea coast mostly in 1980 to 1984 in the wintertime. Almost all birds were bad nourished. 

Relatively low residues of ΣDDT, HCB, and Dieldrin were found. However, the PCB residues 

were highest. The burden towards chlorinated hydrocarbons of the species examined corresponds 

with their trophic position. The situation of the residues of heavy metals is different: differences 

in nutrition cannot serve as an unequivocal explanation of the residues found. Possible reasons of 

the different burden are discussed. 

Heinz, Gary H. 1998. Contaminant effects on Great Lakes fish-eating birds: A Population 

Perspective. In: Kendall, Ronald J., Richard L. Dickerson, John P. Giesy, William P. Suk (Eds.). 

Principles and Processes for Evaluating Endocrine Disruption in Wildlife, Proceedings From 

Principles and Processes for Evaluating Endocrine Disruption in Wildlife; March 1996; Kiawah 

Island, S. C. Pensacola, FL: Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC). 515 

p. 141-153. 

Rec #: 400 

KEYWORDS: review; Great Lakes; North America; effects; reproductive success; eggshell 

thickness; abnormalities; EDCs; organochlorines; DDTs; double-crested cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax auritus; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; bald eagle; Haliaeetus 

leucocephalus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-crowned night-heron; Nycticorax 

nycticorax; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; Forster's tern; Sterna 

forsteri

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A review and discussion with many references. Endocrine effects may have 

contributed to declines in fish-eating bird populations in the Great Lakes, but the greatest harm 

probably was caused by DDE-induced eggshell thinning. Following the ban on DDT in 1972, 

DDE levels in the Great Lakes declined, eggshells of birds began to get thicker, and reproductive 

success improved. Populations of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and ringbilled gulls (Larus delawarensis) have increased dramatically since the bans on DDT and other 

organochlorine pesticides. Bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) still may not be reproducing 

at a completely normal rate along the shores of the Great Lakes, but success is much improved. 

Other species, such as herring gulls (Larus argentatus) and black-crowned night-herons 

(Nycticorax nycticorax), seem to be having improved reproductive success, but data on Great 

Lakes-wide population changes are incomplete. Reproductive success of common terns (Sterna 

hirundo), Caspian terns (Sterna caspia), and Forster's terns (Sterna forsteri) seems to have 

improved in recent years, but again, data on population changes are not very complete, and these 

birds face many habitat-related problems as well as contaminant problems. Although 

contaminants are still producing toxic effects, and these effects may include endocrine 

dysfunction, fish-eating birds in the Great Lakes seem largely to be weathering these effects, at 

least as far as populations are concerned. 

HELCOM. 1996. Third Periodic Assessment of the State of the Marine Environment of the 

Baltic Sea, 1989-93. Helsinki : HELCOM. No. 64 A & B:28 + 262 pp. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

105 

Rec #: 280 

KEYWORDS: oil; organochlorines; PBDEs; PCDDs; PCDFs; common murre; Uria aalge; 

Baltic Sea; Europe; temporal trends 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: In the framework of the Convention on the Protection of the Marine Environment 

of the Baltic Sea Area (Helsinki, 1974, revised 1992), the state of the Baltic Sea is regularly 

assessed in about 5-year intervals. Hundreds of experts from a multitude of disciplines 

participate in this assessment process. The outcome is a basically scientific background 

document covering most of the topics (meteorology, hydrology, hydrography, contaminants and 

inputs, fish stocks and diseases, nature conservation and biodiversity, special problems, and new 

monitoring aspects) related to the state of the Baltic Sea. The respective situation, trends and 

tendencies are highlighted. The multidisciplinary approach attempts to secure a balanced view on 

the different problems. As typical for any science, a compilation of today’s results does not 

provide ‘final answers’ even when the Baltic Sea belongs to one of the longest and most 

intensively studied sea areas of the world. The assessments are understood to be a time limited 

consensus which has been reached between scientists participating in long-term studies. 

Henny, Charles J.; Blus, Lawrence J.; Thompson, Steven P.; and Wilson, Ulrich W. 1989. 

Environmental contaminants, human disturbance and nesting of double-crested cormorants in 

northwestern Washington. Colonial Waterbirds. 12(2):198-206. 

Rec #: 189 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; North America; USA; WA; 

effects; reproductive success; eggshell thickness; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; metals; Hg; Se; 

Al; Cd; Cu; Fe; Mn; Zn; Sb; As; egg; liver; kidney; muscle; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Double-crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) in extreme northwestern 

Washington produced few young (0.27/occupied nest) in 1984; the clutch size was generally 

small and eggs, if laid at all, were laid later than usual. Residues (geometric means, wet weight) 

of DDE (0.58 and 0.59 ppm) in eggs from Colville Island and Protection Island were lower than 

from other locations in the Pacific Northwest, while PCBs (2.19 and 1.37 ppm) were similar to 

those at most locations. Both contaminants in 1984 were below levels associated with 

reproductive problems. Eggs also contained concentrations of mercury (0.26 and 0.27 ppm) and 

selenium (0.31 and 0.28 ppm) below levels associated with reproductive problems. The 

distribution of nesting colonies in the study area changed dramatically since 1984. The 

cormorants were most likely responding to increased human disturbance in the San Juan Islands, 

coupled to additional protection and reduced human activity on Protection and Smith Islands. 

Henny, Charles J.; Hill, Elwood F.; Hoffman, David J.; Spalding, Marilyn G.; and Grove, Robert 

A. 2002. Nineteenth century mercury: Hazard to wading birds and cormorants of the Carson 

River, Nevada. Ecotoxicology. 11(4):213-231. 

Rec #: 397 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; stomach contents; liver; kidney; brain; 

blood; feather; egg; toxicology; histopathology; snowy egret; Egretta thula; black-crowned 

night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; NV; 

USA; North America; age variations; effects 

ABSTRACT: Contemporary mercury interest relates to atmospheric deposition, contaminated 

fish stocks and exposed fish-eating wildlife. The focus is on methylmercury (MeHg) even though 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

106 

most contamination is of inorganic (IoHg) origin. However, IoHg is readily methylated in 

aquatic systems to become more hazardous to vertebrates. In response to a classic episode of 

historical (1859–1890) IoHg contamination, we studied fish-eating birds nesting along the lower 

Carson River, Nevada. Adult double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus), snowy egrets 

(Egretta thula) and black-crowned night-herons (Nycticorax nycticorax) contained very high 

concentrations of total mercury (THg) in their livers (geo. means 134.8μg/g wet weight (ww), 

43.7 and 13.5, respectively) and kidneys (69.4, 11.1 and 6.1, respectively). Apparently tolerance 

of these concentrations was possible due to a threshold-dependent demethylation coupled with 

sequestration of resultant IoHg. Demethylation and sequestration processes also appeared to have 

reduced the amount of MeHg redistributed to eggs. However, the relatively short time spent by 

adults in the contaminated area before egg laying was also a factor in lower than expected 

concentrations of mercury in eggs. Most eggs (100 % MeHg) had concentrations below 0.80μg/g 

ww, the putative threshold concentration where reproductive problems may be expected; there 

was no conclusive evidence of mercury-related depressed hatchability. After hatching, the young 

birds were fed diets by their parents averaging 0.36–1.18μgMeHg/g ww through fledging. 

During this four to six week period, accumulated mercury concentrations in the organs of the 

fledglings were much lower than found in adults, but evidence was detected of toxicity to their 

immune (spleen, thymus, bursa), detoxicating (liver, kidneys) and nervous systems. Several 

indications of oxidative stress were also noted in the fledglings and were most apparent in young 

cormorants containing highest concentrations of mercury. This stress was evidenced by increased 

thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, low activities of enzymes related to glutathione 

metabolism and low levels of reduced thiols, plus an increase in the ratio of oxidized to reduced 

glutathione. At lower concentrations of mercury, as was found in young egrets, we observed 

elevated activities of protective hepatic enzymes, which could help reduce oxidative stress. 

Immune deficiencies and neurological impairment of fledglings may affect survivability when 

confronted with the stresses of learning to forage and the ability to complete their first migration. 

Henny, Charles J.; Rudis, Deborah D.; Roffe, Thomas J.; and Robinson-Wilson, Everett. 1995. 

Contaminants and sea ducks in Alaska and the circumpolar region. Environ. Health Perspect. 

103(4):41-49. 

Rec #: 46 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; effects; metals; Cd; Se; Cu; Hg; Fe; Mg; Mn; Zn; Al; 

kidney; liver; surf scoter; Melanitta perspicillata; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; black 

scoter; Melanitta nigra; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; spectacled eider; Somateria 

fischeri; Steller's eider; Polysticta stelleri; histopathology; effects; disease 

ABSTRACT: We review nesting sea duck population declines in Alaska during recent decades 

and explore the possibility that contaminants may be implicated Aerial surveys of the surf scoter 

(Melanitta perspicillata), white-winged scoter (M. fusca), black scoter (M. nigra), oldsquaw 

(Clangula hyemalis), spectacled eider (Somateria fischeri), and Steller's eider (Polysticta stelleri) 

show long-term breeding population declines, especially the latter three species. The spectacled 

eider was recently classified threatened under the Endangered Species Act. In addition, three 

other diving ducks, which commonly winter in coastal areas, have declined from unknown 

causes. Large die-offs of all three species of scoters during molt, a period of high energy 

demand, were documented in August 1990, 1991, and 1992 at coastal reefs in southeastern 

Alaska. There was no evidence of infectious diseases in those scoters. The die-offs may or may 

not be associated with the long-term declines. Many scoters had elevated renal concentrations of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

107 

cadmium (high of 375 μg/g dry weight [dw]). Effects of cadmium in sea ducks are not well 

understood. Selenium concentrations in livers of nesting white-winged scoters were high; 

however, the eggs they laid contained less selenium than expected based on relationships for 

freshwater bird species. Histological evaluation found a high prevalence of hepatocellular 

vacuolation (49 %), a degenerative change frequently associated with sublethal toxic insult. 

Cadmium and selenium mean liver concentrations were generally higher in those birds with 

more severe vacuolation; however, relationships were not statistically significant. We do not 

know if sea duck population declines are related to metals or other contaminants. 

Henriksen, E. O.; Gabrielsen, G. W.; Skaare, J. U.; Skjegstad, N.; and Jenssen, B. M. 1998. 

Relationships between PCB levels, hepatic EROD activity and plasma retinol in glaucous gulls, 

Larus hyperboreus. Mar. Environ. Res. 46(1-5):45-49. 

Rec #: 322 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; liver; blood; toxicology; EROD; CYP1A; 

organochlorines; PCBs; retinol; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; effects 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Fifteen adult glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, were captured in the vicinity of 

Ny-Ĺlesund, Svalbard. The birds were kept captured and fed a diet of polar cod, Boreogadus 

saida, caught off the coast of Spitsbergen. After 40 days of captivity, the birds were killed. The 

presence of hepatic homologues to mammalian CYP1A and CYP2B proteins was demonstrated 

by Western blotting. High concentrations of PCBs were found in the liver (median ΣPCB111 μg 

g-1 lipid), but hepatic EROD activity was low and significantly negatively correlated with 

concentrations of PCB-congener numbers 28, 47, 66, 74, 105 and 187 in the liver. Plasma retinol 

did not correlate significantly with liver concentrations of PCBs, but a significant positive 

correlation was found between retinol concentration in plasma and hepatic EROD activity. 

Henriksen, E. O.; Gabrielsen, G. W.; Trudeau, S.; Wolkers, J.; Sagerup, K.; and Skaare, J. U. 

2000. Organochlorines and possible biochemical effects in glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) 

from Bjørnøya, the Barents Sea. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 38(2):234-243. 

Rec #: 330 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; chlordanes; 

DDTs; mirex; stable isotopes; toxicology; porphyrin; retinol; EROD; cytochrome P450; liver; 

Norway; Europe; effects 

ABSTRACT: To study possible biochemical effects of organochlorine contaminants (OCs) in 

glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus), 40 adult individuals were collected from colonies on 

Bjørnøya in the Barents Sea. OCs (four pesticides and nine PCB congeners), microsomal 7-

ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity, microsomal testosterone hydroxylation, highly 

carboxylated porphyrins (HCPs), retinol, and retinyl palmitate were quantified in liver samples. 

The hepatic vitamin A stores in glaucous gulls were larger than in herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus) from other studies conducted in contaminated locations in North America. No 

significant relationships were found between liver retinoid concentrations and OC levels. The 

hepatic EROD activity was low compared to other studies on fish-eating birds and only 

marginally associated with PCB levels. Microsomal testosterone hydroxylase activity was only 

observed at the 6beta-position and could not be related to OC levels. The low P450-associated 

enzyme activities in the glaucous gull suggests that they have a low capacity for metabolizing 

OCs, which may contribute to the high accumulation of OCs in this species. HCPs were only 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

108 

elevated (138 pmol g-1) in the sample with highest OC levels, whereas the remaining samples 

contained low levels of HCPs (<30 pmol g-1). The weak association between EROD activity and 

PCB levels and the low level of HCPs suggest that these biochemical parameters were unaffected 

by OCs in most of the sampled gulls. Thus, the glaucous gull seems not to be particularly 

sensitive toward Ah-receptor mediated effects. 

Henriksen, Espen O.; Brunström, Björn; Skaare, Janneche Utne; and Gabrielsen, Geir Wing. 

1998. Bioassay-derived 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents and mono-ortho 

polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations in liver of glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, from 

Svalbard. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:415-418. 

Rec #: 323 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; liver; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; toxicology; 

EROD; TEQs; PCBs; organochlorines; effects 

ABSTRACT: Bioassay-derived 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-equivalent (Bio-TEQ) in 

glaucous gull liver extracts were compared with the concentration of mono-ortho polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCB) in the samples. The bioassay detection is based on 7-ethoxyresorufin Odeethylase (EROD) induction in cultured chick embryo livers. Glaucous gulls used were either 

captured and fed with polar cod for 24-41 days or found dead in the same area. The Bio-TEQ 

were 5-254 ng/g lipid (extractable lipids 3.33-5.83 %; wet weight Bio-TEQ 205-8450 ppt), with 

the 2 highest concentrations in birds found dead. PCB-118 was the major mono-ortho PCB. 

Based on TEQ, PCB-156 and PCB-105 were more important. The concentration of mono-ortho 

PCB in the gulls found dead were 3-13 times higher than the concentration in the gulls that were 

kept in captivity. Assuming that the induction effects of the individual PCB-congeners are 

additive, the TEQ concentration associated with mono-ortho PCB in the captive gulls was 2.8 

ng/g lipid, which is 11 % of the Bio-TEQ. Non-ortho PCB contributed mainly to the Bio-TEQ, 

and this contribution is almost entirely due to PCB-126. Mono-ortho PCB explain 74 % of the 

variation in Bio-TEQ (based on Log10-transformed values). The coefficient of detection (r2

) for 

the correlation between Log(Bio-TEQ) and Log(PCB-153) was 0.76. In spite of high Bio-TEQ 

levels in the liver extracts, hepatic EROD activities in the same individuals were low (≤70 

pmol/min mg protein). 

Henriksen, Espen O.; Gabrielsen, Geir W.; and Skaare, Janneche Utne. 1998. Validation of the 

use of blood samples to assess tissue concentrations of organochlorines in glaucous gulls, Larus 

hyperboreus. Chemosphere. 37(13):2627-2643. 

Rec #: 112 

KEYWORDS: blood; organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; mirex; PCBs; 

biomagnification; brain; liver; fat; Norway; Svalbard; Europe; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus

ABSTRACT: Fifteen adult glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, were captured near Ny-Alesund, 

Svalbard. The birds were kept in captivity for 24 - 41 days and fed a diet of polar cod, 

Boreogadus saida. A range of organochlorines (OCs) were quantified in blood, brain, liver, and 

subcutaneous fat tissue. For more than 80 % of the quantified OCs, r2 values >0.75 were found 

for the blood-liver concentration correlations. Repeated sampling revealed intra-individual 

temporal variability in blood OC concentrations. Much of the temporal variability in OC blood 

concentrations was associated with changes in nutritional condition. 

Henriksen Espen O.; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; and Skaare, Janneche Utne. 1996. Levels and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

109 

congener pattern of polychlorinated biphenyls in kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), in relation to 

mobilization of body-lipids associated with reproduction. Environ. Pollut. 92(1):27-37 . 

Rec #: 315 

KEYWORDS: brain; liver; fat; organochlorines; PCBs; seasonal variations; reproductive 

success; elimination; metabolism; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Norway; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Three groups of female kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) were collected in a NorthNorwegian colony: (i) before breeding; (ii) immediately after egg-laying; and (iii) late in the 

chick-rearing period. Concentrations of 21 selected individual polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) 

were determined in liver, brain and fat tissues by capillary gas-chromatography (GC-ECD). This 

was done in order to investigate how the mobilization of lipids associated with breeding 

influences concentrations and compositions of PCBs in these tissues. The results indicate an 

average decrease in body mass from pre-breeding to late chick-rearing of almost 20 %. During 

this period, the mean concentration of PCBs in brain tissue approximately quadruples. This 

increase can be attributed to the redistribution of PCBs from utilized depot fat to metabolizing 

organs. A strong negative correlation was found between body mass and lipid weight PCBconcentrations in all three tissues. The relative amounts of different PCB-congeners were quite 

similar in different tissues, and showed only minor changes during the breeding period. 

Henshel, Diane S.; Martin, J. William; Norstrom, Ross J.; Elliott, John; Cheng, Kimberly M.; 

and DeWitt, Jamie C. 1997. Morphometric brain abnormalities in double-crested cormorant 

chicks exposed to polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans, and biphenyls. J. Great 

Lakes Res. 23(1):11-26. 

Rec #: 99 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; toxicology; TEQs; brain; Great Lakes; 

North America; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; abnormalities; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: We examined brains from double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) 

hatchlings from colonies known to be contaminated with low, moderate, and high levels of 

PCBs, as well as PCDDs and PCDFs, in order to evaluate whether such chemical exposure 

during embryonic development would result in a TCDD- and TEQ-related induction of gross 

brain asymmetry as described previously in similarly exposed great blue herons. Our results 

demonstrate that cormorant embryos exposed in ovo to elevated mixtures of PCBs, PCDDs, and 

PCDFs in the environment are likely to hatch with asymmetric brains, when the width (mediallateral), angle (oblique to the medio-lateral axis), height (rostro-caudal), and depth (dorsoventral) were measured both from dorsal and ventral perspectives. The degree and frequency of 

this asymmetry correlates to dose based on both TCDD alone and TEQs. This indicates that the 

TEQ-related brain asymmetry is not a species-specific response. The gross brain asymmetries are 

present in hatchlings and are readily quantifiable. Thus, they could potentially be used as a 

biomarker of the effects of TCDD-related compounds on neuromorphological development. 

Herzke, Dorte; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; Evenset, Anita; and Burkow, Ivan C. 2003. 

Polychlorinated camphenes (toxaphenes), polybrominated diphenylethers and other halogenated 

organic pollutants in glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) from Svalbard and Bjørnøya (Bear 

Island). Environ. Pollut. 121(2):293-300. 

Rec #: 378 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; liver; intestine; organochlorines; PCBs; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

110 

chlordanes; HCB; mirex; DDTs; PBDEs; toxaphene; Norway; Svalbard; Europe; gender 

differences 

ABSTRACT: The levels of polychlorinated camphenes (toxaphenes) were studied in liver 

samples from 18 glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) from Bjørnøya (74°N, 19°E) and four 

individuals from Longyearbyen (78°N, 15°E). Additional brominated flame retardants (BFRs), 

PCBs and chlorinated pesticides were studied in liver and intestinal contents of 15 of the 

glaucous gulls from Bjørnøya. Of the analyzed BFRs only 2,2',4,4'-tetra- and 2,2',4,4',5-

pentabrominated diphenylethers (PBDE 47 and 99) could be detected. The concentrations were 

2-25 ng/g ww. In addition, high resolution measurements with GC/HRMS revealed the 

existence of several, not quantified, PBDEs and polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs) congeners in 

the samples. B9-1679 and B8-1413 were the dominating toxaphenes with median concentrations 

of 8 and 15 ng/g ww. Concentrations of toxaphenes and PBDEs were ≤100-times lower than the 

concentrations of PCB and some of the pesticides. PCB and p,p'-DDE constituted 90 % of the 

contaminants found. 

Hesse, Larry W.; Brown, Robert L.; and Heisinger, James F. 1975. Mercury contamination of 

birds from a polluted watershed. J. Wildl. Manage. 39(2):299-304. 

Rec #: 448 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; muscle; liver; kidney; SD; USA; North America; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; biomagnification 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Total Hg [7439-97-6] concentrations in the muscle, liver, and kidney were 

detected in 22 species of birds collected from Hg-contaminated western South Dakota watershed. 

Elevated Hg levels were detected in the fish-eating birds, especially in double-crested 

cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus). Levels in nonfish-eating birds were lower, but the mean 

residues were significantly higher than the mean levels of control birds. In general, greater Hg 

accumulations were found in the livers of fish-eating birds and the kidneys of nonfish-eaters. A 

significant correlation was found for Hg residues in muscle-liver, muscle-kidney, and liverkidney tissue combinations. 

Hogstad, O.; Nygård, T.; Gätzschmann, P.; Lierhagen, S.; and Thingstad, P. G. 2003. Bird skins 

in museum collections: Are they suitable as indicators of environmental metal load after 

conservation procedures? Environ. Monit. Assess. 87(1):47-56. 

Rec #: 480 

KEYWORDS: goshawk; Accipiter gentilis; eagle owl; Bubo bubo; common pigeon; Columba 

livia; common eider; Somateria mollissima; feather; metals; Cd; Hg; Pb; Mg; Al; Mn; Fe; Cu; 

Zn; As; Norway; Europe 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: To find out whether modern conservation treatments alter the level of metals in 

feathers, the authors analyzed the content of 10 metals in feathers before and after skins were 

washed with detergent and treated with Eulan U-33 (a commonly used preservative at museums). 

Feathers of 31 birds of Goshawk Accipiter gentilis, Eagle Owl Bubo bubo, Feral Pigeon 

Columba livia domest. and Common Eider Somateria mollissima were analyzed. The authors 

found that in most cases metals were partly washed out of the feathers, but the effects were 

related to species and type of feather. The value of bird skins as indicators of environmental 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

111 

metal load is therefore affected by this treatment. It is recommended that the conservation 

techniques used at museums should be reconsidered if skins are intended for specimen banking 

for future reference in environmental monitoring schemes and research. 

Hollmén, Tuula; Franson, J. Christian; Poppenga, Robert H.; Hario, Martti; and Kilpi, Mikael. 

1998. Lead poisoning and trace elements in common eiders Somateria mollissima from Finland. 

Wildl. Biol. 4(4): 193-203. 

Rec #: 511 

KEYWORDS: metals; As; Cd; Cr; Cu; Fe; Pb; Mg; Mn; Hg; Mo; Se; Zn; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; liver; blood; Finland; Europe; effects; abnormalities; toxicology; age 

variations; gender differences; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: We collected carcasses of 52 common eider Somateria mollissima adults and 

ducklings and blood samples from 11 nesting eider hens in the Gulf of Finland near Helsinki in 

1994, 1995 and 1996. Samples of liver tissue were analysed for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, 

copper, iron, lead, magnesium, manganese, mercury, molybdenum, selenium and zinc. Blood 

was analysed for lead, mercury and selenium. Most of the 21 adults examined at necropsy were 

emaciated with empty gizzards, and no ingested shotgun pellets or other metal were found in any 

of the birds. Three adult females had a combination of lesions and tissue lead residues 

characteristic of lead poisoning. Two of these birds had acid-fast intranuclear inclusion bodies in 

renal epithelial cells and high concentrations of lead (73.4 and 73.3 ppm; all liver residues 

reported on dry weight basis) in their livers. The third was emaciated with a liver lead 

concentration of 47.9 ppm. An adult male had a liver lead concentration of 81.7 ppm, which is 

consistent with severe clinical poisoning. Two other adults, one male and one female, had liver 

lead concentrations of 14.2 and 8.03 ppm, respectively. Lead concentrations in the blood of hens 

ranged from 0.11 to 0.63 ppm wet weight. Selenium residues of ≥60 ppm were found in the 

livers of five adult males. Selenium concentrations in the blood of hens ranged from 1.18 to 3.39 

ppm wet weight. Arsenic concentrations of 27.5-38.5 ppm were detected in the livers of four 

adult females. Detectable concentrations of selenium, mercury and molybdenum were found 

more frequently in the livers of adult males arriving on the breeding grounds than in incubating 

females, while the reverse was true for arsenic, lead and chromium. Mean concentrations of 

selenium, copper and molybdenum were higher in the livers of arriving males than in the livers 

of incubating hens, but hens had greater concentrations of iron and magnesium. Concentrations 

of trace elements were lower in the livers of ducklings than in the livers of adults 

Holm, E.; Persson, B. R. R.; Hallstadius, L.; Aarkrog, A.; and Dahlgaard, H. 1983. Radiocesium 

and transuranium elements in the Greenland and Barents Seas. Oceanologica Acta. 6(4):457-462. 

Rec #: 461 

KEYWORDS: radionuclides; Greenland; North America; Barents Sea; Atlantic Ocean; Europe; 

Sweden; Norway; Svalbard; common eider; Somateria mollissima; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; carcass; 

biomagnification; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The results of 137Cs, 239,240Pu, and 241Am analyses in seawater, sediment, and biota 

from the Swedish Arctic expedition, Ymer-80, in the Barents Sea and Greenland Sea show that 

137Cs released from European nuclear fuel reprocessing facilities is effectively transferred by the 

Gulf stream to these latitudes. The transuranium elements 239,240Pu and 241Am present in the 

investigated areas originate mainly from local fallout, but a substantial mixing with Atlantic 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

112 

waters containing these elements was observed The levels of 137Cs found in biota like algae, 

seals, polar bears, and birds are quite moderate and do not differ much from those found in other 

areas, such as Greenland. 

Holt, Gunnar; Frøslie, Arne; and Norheim, Gunnar. 1979. Mercury, DDE, and PCB in the avian 

fauna of Norway. Acta Vet. Scand. Suppl. 70:1-28. 

Rec #: 526 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; Norway; Europe; grey heron; Ardea 

cinerea; osprey; Pandion haliaetus; white-tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; eagle owl; Bubo 

bubo; effects 

ABSTRACT: In general, contamination of Norwegian birds with Hg, DDE (I) [72-55-9], and 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) appeared to be low. Highest levels were found in the grey 

heron, osprey, white-tailed eagle, and eagle owl. With the possible exception of the eagle owl, 

no adverse effects on the bird population of these contaminants were observed 

Honda, Katsuhisa; Marcovecchio, Jorge Eduardo; Kan, Shinya; Tatsukawa, Ryo; and Ogi, 

Haruo. 1990. Metal concentrations in pelagic seabirds from the North Pacific Ocean. Arch. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 19(5):704-711. 

Rec #: 75 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Cd; Fe; Zn; Cu; Mn; muscle; liver; kidney; biomagnification; 

elimination; black-footed albatross; Diomedea nigripes; Laysan albatross; Diomedea 

immutabilis; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; shorttailed shearwater; Puffinus tenuirostris; Swinhoe's storm petrel; Oceanodroma monorhis; 

Japanese cormorant; Phalacrocorax capillatus; glaucous winged gull; Larus glaucescens; blacklegged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; common murre; Uria aalge; 

ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; Cassin's auklet; Ptychoramphus aleuticus; 

parakeet auklet; Aethia psittacula; crested auklet; Aethia cristatella; least auklet; Aethia pusilla; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; horned puffin; Fratercula corniculata; tufted puffin; 

Fratercula cirrhata; Pacific Ocean; Bering Sea; China Sea; Sea of Japan; Gulf of Alaska; AK; 

North America; Japan; China; Asia; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of four essential elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) and two toxic 

metals (Cd and Hg) were measured in selected tissues of 19 pelagic seabird species collected in 

the North Pacific and neighboring waters. Essential metal concentrations were generally highest 

in the liver and less variable than toxic metals among species and also within each species. Fe 

concentrations in the muscle were higher in Alcidae than in the other families, whereas the 

opposite trend was found for Fe and Mn in the liver. Zn concentrations varied among species, 

depending on the Cd concentrations. Toxic metal concentrations were highest in the liver or 

kidney and varied widely among species, greatly depending on differences in the diet among 

species. Extraordinarily high Hg concentrations were found in Black-footed Albatrosses, 

Diomedea nigripes, exceeding 300 μg/g wet weight in some, and seemed to be due to constraints 

on the elimination of Hg. Also, some geographical differences in Cd and Hg concentrations of 

the seabirds were observed. 

Hontelez, L. C. M. P.; Van den Dungen, H. M.; and Baars, A. J. 1992. Lead and cadmium in 

birds in the Netherlands: A preliminary survey. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 23(4):453-

456. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

113 

Rec #: 467 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Cd; kidney; liver; bone; buzzard; Buteo buteo; grey heron; Ardea 

cinerea; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Netherlands; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Three birds species (Buteo buteo, Ardea cinerea, and Somateria mollissima) from 

the Netherlands were investigated for Pb and Cd concentrations in kidneys, livers, and tibiae. 

Common eiders contained a higher Cd load in liver and kidney than buzzards and grey herons. 

They had a higher Pb burden in bone than grey herons. The 3 birds species, all standing at the 

end of a different food chain, seem appropriate indicators for environmental contamination with 

heavy metals. 

Hop, Haakon; Borgå, Katrine; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; Kleivane, Lars; and Skaare, Janneche 

Utne. 2002. Food web magnification of persistent organic pollutants in poikilotherms and 

homeotherms from the Barents Sea. Environ. Sci. Technol. 36(12):2589-2597. 

Rec #: 352 

KEYWORDS: liver; organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; stable isotopes; 

biomagnification; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; biomagnification; black guillemot; Cepphus 

grylle; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; thick-billed 

murre; Uria lomvia

ABSTRACT: Food web magnification of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) was detectedfor 

the Barents Sea food web using δ15N as a continuous variable for assessing trophic levels (TL). 

The food web investigated comprised zooplankton, ice fauna and fish (poikilotherms, TL 1.7-

3.3), and seabirds and seals (homeotherms, TL 3.3-4.2), with zooplankton representing the 

lowest and glaucous gull the highest trophic level. Concentrations of lipophilic and persistent 

organochlorines were orders of magnitude higher in homeotherms than in poikilotherms. These 

compounds had significantly higher rates of increase per trophic level in homeotherms relative to 

poikilotherms, with the highest food web magnification factors (FWMFs) for cis-chlordane and 

p,p'-DDE. Some compounds, such as trans-nonachlor and HCB, had similar rates of increase 

throughout the food web, whereas compounds that are more readily eliminated (γ-HCH) showed 

no relationship with trophic level. It is preferable to calc. FWMFs with regard to thermal groups, 

because the different energy requirements and biotransformation abilities between poikilotherms 

and homeotherms may give different rates of contaminant increase with trophic level. When 

biomagnification is compared between ecosystems, FWMFs are preferable to single predatorprey biomagnification factors. FWMFs represent a trophic level increase of contaminants that is 

average for the food chain rather than an increase for a specific predator-prey relationship. The 

Barents Sea FWMFs were generally comparable to those detectedfor marine food webs with 

similar food chain lengths in the Canadian Arctic. 

Howard, Edwin B.; Esra, Gerald N.; and Young, David. 1979. Acute foodborne pesticide toxicity 

in cormorants (Phalacrocorax sp.) and seagulls (Larus californicus). Animals As Monitors of 

Environmental Pollutants. Symposium on Pathobiology of Environmental Pollutants: Animal 

Models and Wildlife As Monitors, University of Connecticut, 1977. 290-296. 

Rec #: 18 

KEYWORDS: effects; biomagnification; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; liver; muscle; brain; 

California gull; Larus californicus; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax penicillatus; Guanay 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax bougainvillii

ABSTRACT: This report describes the acute neurological death of captive seagulls and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

114 

cormorants due to the ingestion of bottom-feeding fish that were contaminated with pesticides. 

The report also describes the presence of organochlorine compounds in marine mammals 

stranded on the Los Angeles coast. Data on pesticide concentration in bird and fish tissues are 

presented. 

Hughes, Kimberley D.; Weseloh, D. Vaughn; and Braune, Birgit M. 1998. The ratio of DDE to 

PCB concentrations in Great Lakes herring gull eggs and its use in interpreting contaminants 

data. J. Great Lakes Res. 24(1):12-31. 

Rec #: 211 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; egg; North America; Great Lakes; spatial 

variations; herring gull; Larus argentatus; bioaccumulation; metabolism 

ABSTRACT: The ratio of DDE to PCB (DDE:PCB) concentrations was examined in herring 

gull (Larus argentatus) eggs collected from thirteen sites on the Great Lakes from 1979 to 1996. 

This ratio has been shown to have had a number of biological interpretations in the past and the 

data in this study have been used to test the validity of these interpretations. The findings suggest 

that the consistency of DDE:PCB over many years reflects the relative availability of DDT and 

PCB in different geographical areas and provides an indication of a bird's general foraging 

ecology. The ratio can also be used as a reflection of the relative rates of increase or decrease of 

DDE and PCBs in food over time. A significant increase was found in the ratio in eggs sampled 

from sites on the upper Great Lakes and Lake Ontario during the study period. This is attributed 

to PCB levels decreasing faster than DDE levels at these sites. At Lake Erie and its two 

connecting channels, a significant increase was detected in the ratio but at a rate 56 % or less 

than that found at other Great Lakes sites. This lower rate is attributed to DDE and PCB levels 

decreasing at high and equal rates. Similarities/differences in the fates of these contaminants 

among the Great Lakes would never have been realized upon an examination of individual 

contaminant levels alone. The ratio is valuable as a measure of the relative exposure of the two 

contaminants in nonmigratory birds such as herring gulls. The use of the ratio as an indication of 

contamination movement through the food chain could not be assessed; the ratio cannot be used 

as a reflection of the interspecific differences in the accumulation and metabolism of the two 

contaminants. Similarities in the patterns of these ratios shown by eggs collected from sites in 

close proximity or within the same lake reinforce the fact that herring gulls are important as 

monitors of regional contaminant conditions. 

Hutton, M. 1981. Accumulation of heavy metals and selenium in three seabird species from the 

United Kingdom. Environ. Pollut. (A Ecol. Biol.). 26:129-145. 

Rec #: 539 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Hg; Pb; Zn; Se; oystercatcher; Haematopus ostralegus; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; great skua; Catharacta skua; biomagnification; age variations; 

bioaccumulation; gender differences; kidney; liver; metallothionein; toxicology 

ABSTRACT: The levels of 3 toxic metals, Cd, Hg, and Pb, and 2 essential elements, Zn and Se, 

were measured in selected tissues of oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus), herring gull (Larus 

argentatus), and great skua (Catharacta skua). Considerable interspecific differences existed in 

the contents of toxic metals and these were related both to the feeding behavior of the sea birds 

and to the extent of habitat contamination. Cd levels in tissues of great skua and oystercatcher 

increased with age, and kidney values in female oystercatchers were higher than in males. A Cdbinding protein with properties similar to metallothionein was present in great skua kidney. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

115 

Positive correlations were obtained between Zn and Cd in kidney and between Se and Hg in 

kidney and liver. Thus, these associations may reflect antagonistic interactions between Zn on 

Cd toxicity and Se on Hg toxicity. The suitability of tissues selected for heavy metal monitoring 

programs in marine birds is discussed briefly. 

Iwata, Hisato; Tanabe, Shinsuke; Iida, Tetsuji; Baba, Norihisa; Ludwig, James P.; and 

Tatsukawa, Ryo. 1998. Enantioselective accumulation of α-hexachlorocyclohexane in northern 

fur seals and double-crested cormorants: Effects of biological and ecological factors in the higher 

trophic levels. Environ. Sci. Technol. 32(15):2244-2249. 

Rec #: 401 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

Great Lakes; North America; muscle; liver; bone; brain; skin; carcass; gender differences; age 

variations; bioaccumulation; metabolism; effects 

ABSTRACT: Tissues of northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) from the Pacific coast of Japan 

and double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) from the Great Lakes were analyzed in 

order to explore the enantioselective accumulation of α-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH). The 

effects of biological and ecological factors such as species, tissue, sex, age, feeding habit, and 

habitat, which may be attributable to the differences in accumulation between enantiomers, were 

also investigated. The enantiomeric ratios (ERs) of (+)-/(-)-α-HCH in fat tissue of female fur 

seals, composed of different age groups, collected in 1986 (1.58 ± 0.25) exhibited greater values 

than those in abiotic and lower trophic levels previously reported. No age trend of ERs was 

found in female northern fur seals. There appeared to be a temporal transition of ERs in adult 

female northern fur seals collected in 1971-1988. Regression analysis showed a significant 

relationship between ERs and feeding habits (p = 0.003). Analysis of breast muscle of doublecrested cormorants exhibited no sex difference in ERs. ERs (1.26 ± 0.13) in cormorants from 

Lake Michigan were significantly higher than those (1.01 ± 0.18) from Lake Superior (p = 

0.002), suggesting the effects of factors such as feeding habit and habitat. Enantiomeric 

accumulation in the body of double-crested cormorants was tissue-specific. No age trend of ERs 

was seen in breast muscle of cormorants. The result implies that sexual maturity, aging and 

breeding activities are less effective for changing ERs. The ERs in higher trophic animals could 

be influenced by species-specific metabolism and transport process in the body as biological 

factors and by feeding habit and habitat as ecological factors. 

Jansson, Bo; Asplund, Lillemor; and Olsson, Mats. 1987. Brominated flame retardants - 

Ubiquitous environmental pollutants? Chemosphere. 16(10-12):2343-2349. 

Rec #: 505 

KEYWORDS: PBDEs; PBBs; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; 

white tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; muscle; Baltic Sea; North Sea; Arctic Ocean; 

Europe; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Biological samples from marine environments were analyzed for brominated 

organic compounds. All samples contained a number of such substances and some of them were 

characterized as polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) and di-Ph ethers (PBDE). The 

chromatographic pattern of the 2 groups agreed well with the corresponding patterns from 2 

com. flame retardants based on these types of substances. In seals, guillemots and white-tailed 

sea eagles from the Baltic region, the levels of PBB and PBDE were 2-5-fold higher than in the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

116 

animals from the North Sea and the Arctic Ocean. The presence of the compounds in animals 

from remote areas indicates a world-wide distribution and emphasizes the risk in the use of 

polyhalogenated hydrocarbons. 

Jansson, Bo; Vaz, Reggie; Blomkvist, Gun; Jensen, Sören; and Olsson, Mats. 1979. Chlorinated 

terpenes and chlordane components found in fish, guillemot and seal from Swedish waters. 

Chemosphere. 8(4):181-190. 

Rec #: 507 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; toxaphene; common murre; Uria 

aalge; egg; muscle; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Fish samples from the Baltic, the North Sea and lake Vattern were contaminated 

with chlorinated terpenes. These compounds were also present in grey seal (Halichoerus 

gryphus) and guillemot (Uria aalge) from the Baltic at the same concentration, approximately 10 

mg/kg fat as in their prey, the herring (Clupea harengus). Chlordane [12789-03-6]-related 

compounds were also found in all samples. The most common substances were trans-nonachlor 

(I) [39765-80-5] and oxychlordane [26880-48-8], but differences could be observed between 

species. These organochlorine pesticides are not used in Sweden and the probable explanation 

for their presence in a Swedish lake is air transportation. 

Jarman, Walter M.; Hobson, Keith A.; Sydeman, William J.; Bacon, Corinne E.; and McLaren, 

Elizabeth B. 1996. Influence of trophic position and feeding location on contaminant levels in 

the Gulf of the Farallones food web revealed by stable isotope analysis. Environ. Sci. Technol. 

30(2):654-660. 

Rec #: 336 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; HCB; PCBs; metals; Pb; Hg; Se; 

stable isotopes; biomagnification; egg; common murre; Uria aalge; Brandt's cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax penicillatus; rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; pigeon guillemot; 

Cepphus columba; bioaccumulation; CA; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: In this study, we present the levels of organochlorine (DDT, HCH, chlordane, 

HCB, and PCBs) and metal (Pb, Hg, and Se) contaminants and their relationship to stable carbon 

and nitrogen isotope values in the Gulf of the Farallones marine food web. This food web 

consisted of two species of euphausiids (Euphausia pacifica and Thysanoessa spinifera), two 

fish species [short-bellied rockfish (Sebastes jordani) and anchovy (Engraulis mordax)], four 

bird species [common murre (Uria aalge), Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus), 

rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata), and pigeon guillemot (Cepphus columba)], and the 

northern sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus). We used a novel method of using egg albumen to 

determine stable isotope values. The values of 13C ranged from -20.1” in the euphausiids to -

15.0” in the northern sea lion and were consistent with a pelagic/offshore vs benthic/inshore 

results found in other studies. Values of 15N in the Gulf of the Farallones food web ranged from 

11.2” in the euphausiids to 19.8” in the northern sea lion and generally demonstrate an 

equivalence with trophic level. The levels of organochlorine compounds were lowest in the 

euphausiids [DDT 11, and PCB 4.5 μg/kg dry weight geometric mean (GM)] and highest in the 

northern sea lion blubber (DDT 9500 and PCB 3500 μg/kg dry weight GM). The highest levels 

of organochlorine compounds in the birds were in the common murre (DDT 8200 and PCB 5900 

μg/kg dry weight GM). Levels of Pb, Hg, and Se ranged from 80 to 1000, from 100 to 19000, 

and from 1900 to 4100 μg/kg dry weight GM, respectively. All of the organochlorine 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

117 

compounds and Hg were significantly correlated with 15N values in the food web. Lower values 

of 15N in egg albumen than in the muscle tissue from common murres reflect a switch in diet to 

a lower trophic position during the egg formation period. The high contaminant levels in the 

murre suggest a mobilization of stored lipids into the eggs. 

Jarman, Walter M.; Sydeman, William J.; Hobson, Keith A.; and Bergqvist, Per-Anders. 1997. 

Relationship of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin and polychlorinated dibenzofuran levels to 

stable-nitrogen isotope abundance in marine birds and mammals in coastal California. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 16(5):1010-1013. 

Rec #: 418 

KEYWORDS: stable isotopes; biomagnification; organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; common 

murre; Uria aalge; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax penicillatus; rhinoceros auklet; 

Cerorhinca monocerata; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; egg; CA; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: Levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated 

dibenzofurans (PCDFs) were determined in common murre (Uria aalge), Brandt's cormorant 

(Phalacrocorax penicillatus), rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata), and pigeon guillemot 

(Cepphus columba) eggs, and Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) blubber collected from the 

Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary in 1993. In addition, the samples were 

analyzed for stable-nitrogen isotopes (δ15N). Of the PCDDs and PCDFs, the 2,3,7,8-TCDD 

(TCDD) and 2,3,7,8-TCDF (TCDF) congeners were the most prominent in the birds. The levels 

of TCDD in the eggs ranged from 0.2 to 6.6 ng/wet kg in the pigeon guillemot and Brandt's 

cormorant, respectfully. The TCDF ranged from 0.30 to 2.25 ng/kg in the pigeon guillemot and 

Brandt's cormorant eggs, respectfully. Other prominent PCDD and PCDF congeners detected in 

all bird species were 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD, 2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF, 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD, and 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-

HpCDD. In the Steller sea lion, the most prominent congeners were 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD at 3.2 

ng/kg, 2,3,7,8-TCDD at 2.9 ng/kg, OCDF at 2.2 ng/kg, 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD at 1.92 ng/kg, and 

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF at 1.3 ng/kg. 

Jensen, S.; Johnels, A. G.; Olsson, M.; and Otterlind G. 1969. DDT and PCB in marine animals 

from Swedish waters. Nature. 224(5216):247-250. 

Rec #: 510 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; common murre; Uria aalge; white tailed sea 

eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; grey heron; Ardea cinerea; egg; muscle; brain; Sweden; Baltic Sea; 

Europe; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: A variety of animal tissues including those from mussel, fish, seals, and birds 

were analyzed for PCB, DDT, and DDT metabolites. Analyses were made by gas 

chromatography with an electron capture detector. The concentration of PCB and DDT was 

approximately 10 times greater in tissues of animals of the Baltic proper area, the Gulf of 

Bothnia, and the Archip elago of Stockholm than that for comparable species from the North Se 

a area and the Atlantic. Levels of PCB decreased from southern fish to northern fish and seal 

tissues. The concentration of DDT was greater in fish than in other marine animals and the 

concentration of DDT metabolites was highest in eagles and herons. 

Jermyn-Gee, K.; Pekarik, C.; Havelka, T.; Barrett, G.; and Weseloh, D. V. 2004. An atlas of 

contaminants in the eggs of fish-eating colonial birds of the Great Lakes (1998-2001). Technical 

Report Series No. ???. Burlington, Ontario, Canada: Canadian Wildlife Service Ontario Region. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

118 

214 pp. 

Rec #: 517 

KEYWORDS: great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; blackcrowned night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; black tern; Chlidonias niger; Forster's tern; Sterna 

forsteri; organochlorines; benzenes; chlordanes; HCB; DDTs; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; egg; 

Great Lakes; North America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: During 1998-2001, Canadian Wildlife Service (Ontario Region) collected 1252 

eggs from 32 sites. Five species of fish-eating colonial waterbirds were sampled: Herring Gull 

(Larus argentatus), Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), Black-crowned Night-Heron 

(Nycticorax nycticorax), Black Tern (Chlidonias niger), Forster’s Tern (Sterna forsteri). The 

purpose was to measure the levels of the following compounds: organochlorine pesticides, 

chlorinated benzenes, polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins and furans, lipid and moisture. The 

data presented in this report were generated as part of a monitoring program started in 1970 to 

understand the temporal and spatial trends of environmental contaminant levels in Great Lakes 

wildlife. Since the 1970s the levels of most chlorinated hydrocarbons have decreased 

significantly at most colonies on the Great Lakes. The change-point regression analysis, which 

we have used since 1997, continues to show that most contaminant levels at most sites (72.4 %) 

are declining as fast as or faster now than they did in the past. This is particularly evident for 

dieldrin, HCB, HE and DDE. The rates of decline have slowed for some compound-site 

comparisons (21.9 %), particularly PCBs and mirex. Since the last atlas was published (Pekarik 

et al. 1998), levels and trends of a relatively new contaminant, brominated diphenyl ethers 

(BDEs), have been documented in Great Lakes Herring Gull eggs (Norstrom et al. 2002). At the 

time of this writing (early 2004), routine analysis for BDEs is just being incorporated into CWS 

protocols. Hence, the data of Norstrom et al. (2002) are not included here. BDE data for Herring 

Gull eggs will be included for 2004 onwards in the next atlas. The data from 1998-2001 are 

summarized in two volumes. Volume I contains contaminant data for all five species 

summarized by location as well as non-coplanar PCB data for all species. Volume II contains 

contaminant data for all five species summarized by compound. Both volumes contain maps of 

sample locations and the means and standard deviations or the pooled analysis values for 

organochlorine pesticides, chlorinated benzenes, non-ortho polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins 

and furans, and percent lipid and moisture. Non-coplanar PCB data is presented only in volume 

I and is only summarized by location. Additionally, contaminant data for Black and Forster’s 

Terns from 1996 have been added, since they were not included from Pekarik et al., 1998a; b. 

Since the last atlas (Pekarik et al. (1998), several papers have been published or are in press from 

the Herring Gull database. These include: DiMaio et al. 1999, Hebert and Weseloh (2002), 

Weseloh et al. (In Press), Weseloh et al. (In Review). 

Joiris, C. R. 1997. Ecotoxicology of stable pollutants - organochlorines and heavy metals - in 

seabirds and marine mammals. Bulletin De La Societe Royale Des Sciences De Liege. 66(1-

3):51-59. 

Rec #: 503 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; metals; Cd; Hg; Fe; Zn; Cu; organometallics; organic 

Hg; liver; muscle; common murre; Uria aalge; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; North Sea; 

Belgium; Europe 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

119 

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine and heavy metal levels in guillemots (Uria aalge), harbor 

porpoises (Phocoena phocoena), and common dolphins (Delphinus delphis) collected or found 

dead in the North Sea area were reported. 

Joiris, Claude R.; Tapia, German; and Holsbeek, Ludo. 1997. Increase of organochlorines and 

mercury levels in common guillemots Uria aalge during winter in the southern North Sea. Mar. 

Pollut. Bull. 34(12):1049-1057. 

Rec #: 38 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; 

bioaccumulation; North Sea; Belgium; Europe; muscle; liver; kidney; common murre; Uria 

aalge; seasonal variations 

ABSTRACT: Beached seabirds, mainly common guillemots Uria aalge, were collected on the 

Belgian coast during winter from 1990 to 1995. Concentrations of total and organic mercury, 

and of organochlorines (PCBs and pesticides) were determined in muscle, liver and kidney. They 

were high compared to summer data (up to one order of magnitude), and increased during 

winter. This increase is not due to changes of total body weight nor polar lipid content, and thus 

reflects an actual increase of the seabirds' contamination while wintering in the southern North 

Sea. The observed annual cycle can be understood by assuming differences in prey 

contamination: higher during winter in the southern North Sea ecosystem than during summer in 

the Atlantic water ecosystem. 

Jones, A. M.; Jones, Yvonne; and Stewart, W. D. P. 1972. Mercury in marine organisms of the 

Tay region. Nature. 238(5360):164-165. 

Rec #: 491 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; liver; kidney; gland; muscle; heart; lung; common eider; Somateria 

mollissima; Scotland; Europe; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The concentrations of mercury [7439-97-6] were detected in organisms collected 

from the Tay river region of Scotland. The concentrations varied according to the sampling area 

examined and were highest in organisms receiving direct discharge from the Tay (near the 

mouth). Total Hg was detected by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry. High levels 

of Hg were found in algae and molluscs at a region subject to the discharge of fresh water from 

the river while very low levels (<.001 μg Hg/g wet weight of tissue) were found in a sampling 

area in a fully marine environment. High levels of Hg were also present in a grey seal and an 

eider duck, with concentrations in the liver and kidney of both species. In the Tay estuary, Hg 

concentrations ranged from 0.067 to 6.26 μg/g wet weight of algae and from 0.036 to 0.639 μg/g 

wet weight in molluscs. 

Jones, P. D.; Giesy, J. P.; Newsted, J. L.; Verbrugge, D. A; Ludwig, J. P.; Ludwig, M. E.; 

Auman, H. J.; Crawford, R.; Tillitt, D. E.; and Kubiak, T. J. 1994. Accumulation of 2,3,7,8-

tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dixoin equivalents by double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus, 

Pelicaniformes) chicks in the North American Great Lakes. Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf. 27(2):192-

209. 

Rec #: 31 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCBs; egg; carcass; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Great Lakes; North America; 

biomagnification; TEQs 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

120 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and 2,3,7,8-

tetrachlordibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents (TCDD-EQ) were determined in eggs and chicks of 

double-crested cormorants (DCC) which were collected in 1989 from eight locations in the 

Laurentian Great Lakes. The mean biomagnification factor (BMF) from forage fish to eggs was 

found to be 31.3. Absolute and relative concentrations as well as rates of accumulation of total 

concentrations of PCBs and TCDD-EQ were measurable in all of the samples. The 

concentrations of both PCBs and TCDD-EQs decreased immediately upon hatching of chicks, 

due to growth dilution. Initial decreases in absolute masses of TCDD-EQ in chicks were also 

observed, which indicates that there can be significant elimination of these compounds during 

early development. The initial rates of accumulation by chicks were dependent only on the mass 

of fish consumed. After the chicks began thermoregulating, the rates of accumulation, expressed 

as a concentration, normalized to body weight, became greater. Rates of accumulation of both 

PCBs and TCDD-EQ were correlated with their respective concentrations in forage fish 

consumed by the chicks. The relative potency, expressed as the ratio of the concentration of 

TCDD-EQ to that of total PCBs was calculated to determine if there was significant trophic-level 

enrichment of the TCDD-EQs, relative to total concentrations of PCBs. A significant enrichment 

was observed at the more and less contaminated locations, but the degree of enrichment was 

greater at the less contaminated locations (26 vs 72 μg/g). 

Järnberg, U.; Asplund, L.; de Wit, C.; Egebäck, A.-L.; Wideqvist, U.; and Jakobsson, E. 1997. 

Distribution of polychlorinated naphthalene congeners in environmental and source-related 

samples. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 32(3):232-245. 

Rec #: 502 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCNs; egg; common murre; Uria aalge; white tailed sea 

eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; biomagnification 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY FOR URIA AALGE

ABSTRACT: Polychlorinated naphthalene (CN) congener profiles in environmental and source 

related samples were compared graphically and by principal component analysis. Samples 

investigated included biological, sediment, water, and air samples, tech. polychlorinated 

biphenyl (PCB) and polychlorinated naphthalene (PCN) formulations, as well as municipal waste 

incineration (MWI) fly ash and graphite electrode sludge. Biological samples showed a 

preferential enrichment of planar, 1,3,5,7-substituted tetra-, penta-, and hexachlorinated 

congeners and most of these samples showed profiles that displayed some similarity to those 

found in the tech. PCB formulations. Sediment samples representing diffuse pollution, i.e., 

sediment samples from remote sites, showed an elevated abundance of the planar hexa- and 

heptaCN congeners (1,2,3,4,6,7-/1,2,3,5,6,7- and 1,2,3,4,5,6,7-). The CN congener profile found 

in these sediment samples and the two air samples were more similar to the tech. PCB 

formulations than to the investigated MWI and graphite sludge samples. Samples from three 

PCB contaminated lakes displayed similar congener profiles as Aroclor 1242, 1254 and Clophen 

A40. Two sediment samples and a pike sample collected from the vicinity of a chloroalkali plant 

showed profiles that were closely related to the investigated samples displayed profiles similar to 

low or medium chlorinated tech. PCN (Halowax 1099, 1013, and 1014). 

Järnberg, Ulf; Asplund, Lillemor; de Wit, Cynthia; Grafström, Anna Karin; Haglund, Peter; 

Jansson, Bo; Lexén, Karin; Strandell, Michael; Olsson, Mats; and Jonsson, Björn. 1993. 

Polychlorinated biphenyls and polychlorinated naphthalenes in Swedish sediment and biota: 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

121 

Levels, patterns, and time trends. Environ. Sci. Technol. 27(7):1364-1374. 

Rec #: 513 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCNs; PCDDs; common murre; Uria aalge; egg; 

Sweden; Europe; temporal trends; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Levels of non-ortho-polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), some mono-ortho-PCBs, 

and resolved peaks of tetra- to heptachloronaphthalenes are reported in biological and sediment 

samples from the Swedish environment. The results show that levels of individual PCB 

congeners, and especially PCB 126, may pose a greater threat to the environment than the TCDD 

and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorofuran when expressed as tetrachlorodibenzodioxin toxic equivalent. 

Polychlorinated naphthalene is as widespread as PCBs, and at some locations the pollution 

situation indicates a specific source, leading to a bioaccumulating hexachloronaphthalene 

contributing considerably to the total TCDD-like toxicity. A time trend study of guillemot eggs 

from the Baltic Proper seems to indicate that levels of non-ortho-PCB and -PCN have decreased 

since the 1970s. 

Kahle, Silke and Becker, Peter H. 1999. Bird blood as bioindicator for mercury in the 

environment. Chemosphere. 39(14):2451-2457. 

Rec #: 368 

KEYWORDS: common gull; Larus canus; blood; feather; metals; Hg; Wadden Sea; Germany; 

Europe 

ABSTRACT: Mercury concentrations were studied in blood, down and feathers of Common 

Gull (Larus canus L.) to investigate the suitability of bird blood as a matrix for biomonitoring of 

mercury in the marine environment. Chicks were collected in 1996 on the Elbe river and the 

Jade Bay. Like the side feathers, blood indicated site differences in mercury contamination. 

Correlational analyses showed that mercury concentrations in blood are significantly related to 

levels in side feathers (p < 0.001; Pearson), but not to those in down (p > 0.05; Pearson). 

Therefore, blood can be considered as a suitable matrix to indicate the current mercury burden in 

wild birds. 

Kallenborn, Roland; Evenset, Anita; Herzke, Dorte; Christensen, Guttorm; and Schlabach, 

Martin. 2001. Chlorobornanes in biota samples, related to a typical freshwater food web at 

Bjørnøya (Bear Island). Organohalogen Compounds. 52:387-391. 

Rec #: 455 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; gut; 

organochlorines; toxaphene; spatial variations 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Samples from selected species belonging to a typical freshwater food web were 

collected at Lake Ellasjøen and Lake Øyangen in Bjørnøya, Norway, and analyzed for their 

chlorobornane content. Gut samples from glaucous gull were also taken and analyzed, since 

guano input from seabirds into the freshwater system cannot be neglected as a possible source of 

persistent organic pollutants (POP). Although significant differences were found between the 

samples from the two lakes, the highest chlorobornane contamination cannot be considered as 

unusually high compared to published literature to date for Arctic marine top predators. The 

results identified glaucous gull guano as one of the major chlorobornane sources for the Lake 

Ellasjøen freshwater system. The distinct local chlorobornane level differences between the two 

lakes demonstrate the important influence of locally defined and restricted ecological, 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

122 

geographical, and meteorological environmental factors on the overall contaminant levels. 

Kallenborn, Roland; Hühnerfuss, Heinrich; and König, Wilfried A. 1991. Gas chromatographic 

separation of organic enantiomers of marine pollutants. 2. Enantioselective metabolism of (±)-

alpha-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane in different organs of eider duck. Angewandte Chemie. 

103(3):328-329. 

Rec #: 484 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Baltic Sea; 

Germany; Europe; muscle; liver; kidney; biomagnification; elimination; metabolism 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: HPLC on heptakis(3-O-butyryl-2,6-di-O-pentyl)-β-cyclodextrin was used for the 

detection of (+)-?-HCH and (-)-α-HCH in n-hexane extracts from the muscle, liver, and kidney 

of 6 healthy wild eider ducks (S. mollissima) from the Baltic Sea. The ratio of the (+)- to (-)-

enantiomers in the muscle was higher than in the kidney (7.0 vs. 1.6, respectively). The 

differences in degradation rates of the α-HCH enantiomers may be due to the different 

physiological function of the organs. 

Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Choi, Jae-Won; Iseki, Naomasa; Senthilkumar, Kurunthachalam; 

Kim, Dong Hoon; Masunaga, Shigeki; and Giesy, John P. 2002. Concentrations of perfluorinated 

acids in livers of birds from Japan and Korea. Chemosphere. 49(3):225-231. 

Rec #: 370 

KEYWORDS: PFOS; perfluorinated acids; Korea; Japan; Asia; liver; black-tailed gull; Larus 

crassirostris; spot-billed duck; Anas poecilorhyncha; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; 

black-eared kite; Milvus lineatus; grey heron; Ardea cinerea; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; 

bar-tailed godwit; Limosa lapponica; common gull; Larus canus; black-necked grebe; Podiceps 

nigricollis; common tern; Sterna hirundo; great knot; Calidris tenuirostris; greenshank; Tringa 

nebularia; herring gull; Larus argentatus; sanderling; Crocethia alba; little egret; Egretta 

garzetta; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Livers of birds collected from Japan and Korea (n=83) were analyzed to 

determine the concentrations of perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorooctanesulfonamide 

(FOSA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorohexanesulfonate (PFHS). PFOS was 

found in the livers of 95 % of the birds analyzed at concentrations greater than the limit of 

quantitation (LOQ) of 10 ng/g, wet weight. The greatest concentration of PFOS of 650 ng/g, wet 

weight, was found in the liver of a common cormorant from the Sagami River in Kanagawa 

Prefecture. Concentrations of PFOS in bird livers from Japan and Korea were within the ranges 

of values reported for those from the United States and certain European countries. PFOA and 

PFHS were found in 5-10 % of the samples analyzed. The greatest concentrations of PFOA and 

PFHS in bird livers were 21 and 34 ng/g, wet weight, respectfully. FOSA was found in all the 

samples (n=10) of cormorants collected from the Sagami River in Japan. The greatest 

concentration of FOSA in cormorant liver was 215 ng/g, wet weight. There was no significant 

correlation between the concentrations of PFOS and FOSA in cormorants collected from the 

Sagami River. These results suggested that the distribution of FOSA is localized. No age- or 

gender-specific differences in fluorochemical concentrations could be discerned in birds. 

Kannan, Kurunthachalam and Falandysz, Jerzy. 1997. Butyltin residues in sediment, fish, fisheating birds, harbor porpoise and human tissues from the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea. Mar. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

123 

Pollut. Bull. 34(3):203-207. 

Rec #: 501 

KEYWORDS: organometallics; organotins; liver; red-throated loon; Gavia stellata; razorbill; 

Alca torda; great crested grebe; Podiceps cristatus; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; long-tailed 

duck; Clangula hyemalis; white tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; common murre; Uria 

aalge; Baltic Sea; Poland; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Monobutyltin, dibutyltin, tributyltin concentrations in flounder, herring, eel, sea 

trout, turbot, cod, eelpout, pikeperch, mackerel, red throated diver, razorbill, great crested grebe, 

black cormorant, long tailed duck, white tailed eagle, guillemot, harbor porpoise and human 

tissues from the Polish coast of the Baltic Sea are given. 

Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Franson, J. Christian; Bowerman, William W.; Hansen, Kris J.; 

Jones, Paul D.; and Giesy, John P. 2001. Perfluorooctane sulfonate in fish-eating water birds 

including bald eagles and albatrosses. Environ. Sci. Technol. 35(15):3065-3070. 

Rec #: 363 

KEYWORDS: PFOS; USA; Great Lakes; North America; Pacific Ocean; blood; egg; herring 

gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; ring-billed gull; Larus 

delawarensis; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; common loon; Gavia immer; brown 

pelican; Pelecanus occidentalis; white pelican; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; great egret; Ardea 

alba; snowy egret; Egretta thula; woodstork; Mycteria americana; white-faced ibis; Plegadis 

chihi; black-crowned night heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; Franklin's gull; Larus pipixcan; 

gannet; Sula bassana; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; osprey; Pandion haliaetus; redthroated loon; Gavia stellata; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax penicillatus; great blue heron; 

Ardea herodias; Laysan albatross; Diomedea immutabilis; black-footed albatross; Diomedea 

nigripes; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was measured in 161 samples of liver, kidney, 

blood, or egg yolk from 21 species of fish-eating water birds collected in the United States 

including albatrosses from Sand Island, Midway Atoll, in the central North Pacific Ocean. 

concentrations of PFOS in the blood plasma of bald eagles collected from the midwestern United 

States ranged from 13-2220 ng/mL (mean: 330 ng/mL), except one sample that did not contain 

quantifiable concentrations of PFOS. Concentrations of PFOS were greater in blood plasma than 

in whole blood. Among 82 livers from various species of birds from inland or coastal U.S. 

locations, Brandt's cormorant from San Diego, CA, contained the greatest concentration of PFOS 

(1780 ng/g, wet weight). PFOS was also found in the sera of albatrosses from the central North 

Pacific Ocean at concentrations ranging from 3-34 ng/mL. Occurrence of PFOS in birds from 

remote marine locations suggests widespread distribution of PFOS and related fluorochemicals 

in the environment. 

Kannan, Kurunthachalam; Hilscherova, Klara; Imagawa, Takashi; Yamashita, Nobuyoshi; 

Williams, Lisa L.; and Giesy, John P. 2001. Polychlorinated naphthalenes, -biphenyls, -dibenzop-dioxins, and -dibenzofurans in double-crested cormorants and herring gulls from Michigan 

waters of the Great Lakes. Environ. Sci. Technol. 35(3):441-447. 

Rec #: 328 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; egg; organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; TEQs; toxicology; MI; USA; Great 

Lakes; North America 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

124 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans 

(PCDFs), naphthalenes (PCNs), and biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in eggs of double-crested 

cormorants and herring gulls collected from Michigan waters of the Great Lakes. Concentrations 

of PCNs in eggs of double-crested cormorants and herring gulls were in the ranges of 380-2400 

and 83-1300 pg/g, wet weight, respectively. Concentrations of 2,3,7,8-substituted PCDDs and 

PCDFs were 10-200 times less than those of PCNs in eggs whereas those of total PCBs (380-

7900 ng/g, wet weight) were 3-4 orders of magnitude greater. While the profile of PCB isomers 

and congeners between double-crested cormorants and herring gulls was similar, the PCN isomer 

profile differed markedly between these two species. PCN congeners 66/67 

(1,2,3,4,6,7/1,2,3,5,6,7) accounted for greater than 90 % of the total PCN concentrations in 

herring gulls, whereas their contribution to total PCN concentrations in double-crested 

cormorants ranged from 18 to 40 % (mean, 31 %). The ratios of concentrations of PCDDs to 

PCDFs were greater in herring gulls than in double-crested cormorants collected from the same 

locations, suggesting the ability of the former to metabolize PCDF congeners relatively rapidly. 

2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) equivalents (TEQs) contributed by PCNs in 

double-crested cormorant and herring gull eggs were 2-3 % of the sum TEQs of PCBs, PCDDs, 

PCDFs, and PCNs. PCB congener 126 (3,3',4,4',5-PeCB) accounted for 57-72 % of the total 

TEQs in double-crested cormorant and herring gull eggs. 

Karlin, Antti; Rantamäki, Pirjo; and Lemmetyinen, Risto. 1985. Residues of DDT and PCBs in 

the eggs of the herring gull Larus argentatus in the archipelago of southwestern Finland. Ornis 

Fennica. 62:168-170. 

Rec #: 10 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; toxicology; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

Finland; Europe 

ABSTRACT: As DDT and PCBs have deleterious effects on the reproductive success of birds 

and also on chick survival, the authors measured DDT and PCB residues in eggs of herring gulls 

in the archipelago of southwestern Finland. The samples were taken in Kustavi and Sauvo in 

1978. The distance between the colonies was about 100 km. The authors also examined whether 

the laying sequence had an effect on the levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons. 

Karlog, O.; Elvestad, K.; and Clausen, B. 1983. Heavy metals (cadmium, copper, lead and 

mercury) in common eiders (Somateria mollissima) from Denmark. Nordisk Veterinaermedicin. 

35(12):448-451. 

Rec #: 468 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Cu; Pb; Hg; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Denmark; 

Europe; toxicology; bioaccumulation; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: In Danish common eiders, the liver and kidney contents of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Hg 

were detected This species feeds almost exclusively on the common mussel (Mytilus edulis), 

which accumulates heavy metals. The concentrations recorded of Cd, Cu, and Hg were lower 

than those usually regarded as toxic for birds, except for 1 eider which carried >2000 mg Cu/kg 

liver tissue (dry weight). Of the 42 eiders analyzed for Pb, 4 had toxic levels, i.e., >7 mg/kg liver 

weight, and 2 others had increased levels, i.e., 3-7 mg Pb/kg liver wet weight. The mean Cd 

concentration was 3.3 mg/kg liver wet weight This means that by consumption of approximately 

160 g liver from the common eider, the weekly tolerable intake of Cd suggested by the 

FAO/WHO would be exceeded. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

125 

Kawano, Masahide; Inoue, Tsuyoshi; Wada, Toyohito; Hidaka, Hideo; and Tatsukawa, Ryo. 

1988. Bioconcentration and residue patterns of chlordane compounds in marine animals: 

Invertebrates, fish, mammals, and seabirds. Environ. Sci. Technol. 22:792-797. 

Rec #: 64 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; organochlorines; chlordanes; DDTs; HCHs; fat; carcass; 

Pacific Ocean; Bering Sea; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia

ABSTRACT: The bioconcentration and compositional patterns of chlordane compounds (CHLs: 

cis-chlordane, trans-chlordane, cis-nonachlor, trans-nonachlor, and oxychlordane) were 

investigated in organisms from two marine ecosystems. The bioconcentration factors (BCF: 

concentration in organism/concentration seawater) of CHLs in lower trophic organisms were in 

between the values obtained for HCHs (α-HCH, β-HCH, and γ-HCH) and DDTs (p,p'-DDE and 

p,p'-DDT). In the case of higher trophic organisms, the scatter in the biomagnification factors 

(BMF: concentration in organism/concentration in food) of CHLs was found to be wider than 

those observed for HCHs and DDTs. Also, there were remarkable differences in CHLs 

composition among higher trophic organisms. For example, the percent composition of 

oxychlordane, which is one of the persistent metabolites of CHLs in seabirds from both areas, 

was higher than those of marine mammals. 

Kawano, Masahide; Matsushita, Sanae; Inoue, Tsuyoshi; Tanaka, Hiroyuki; and Tatsukawa, 

Ryo. 1986. Biological accumulation of chlordane compounds in marine organisms from the 

northern North Pacific and Bering Sea. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 17(11):512-516. 

Rec #: 40 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; HCHs; PCBs; chlordanes; fat; thick-billed murre; Uria 

lomvia; gland; fat; Pacific Ocean; Bering Sea; biomagnification; metabolism 

ABSTRACT: Sum of chlordane compounds (Sigma CHL; cis-chlordane + trans-chlordane + 

cis-nonachlor + trans-nonachlor + oxychlordane) are concentrated gradually with trophic levels 

from zooplankton to Dall's porpoise (Phocoenoides dalli) through squid and fish. The order of 

bioconcentration factors (BCF: concentration in organism/concentration in seawater) in these 

organisms was Sigma DDT (p,p'-DDE + p,p'-DDD + p,p'-DDT)> Sigma CHL less than or equal 

to PCBs> Sigma HCH (alpha -HCH + beta -HCH + gamma -HCH). Calculation for the 

concentration factor against food, namely biomagnification factor (BMF: concentration in 

organism/concentration in its food), was made for Dall's porpoise and thick-billed murre (Uria 

lomvia). The BMFs of these chemicals in thick-billed murre were lower than those of Dall's 

porpoise, suggesting the degradation and/or excretion of organochlorines through the uropygial 

gland with lipids. Moreover, the lowest BMF of Sigma CHL in thick-billed murre among 

organochlorines may indicate that chlordane compounds (CHLs) are metabolized more rapidly 

by this seabird than Dall's porpoise. 

Keith, J. A. and Gruchy, I. M. 1972. Residue levels of chemical pollutant in North American bird 

life. Proc. Inter. Ornithol. Congr. 15:437-454. 

Rec #: 550 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; dieldrin; metals; Hg; egg; carcass; feather; fat; 

effects; eggshell thickness; AK; USA; Canada; Mexico; Atlantic Ocean; Pacific Ocean; North 

America; Aechmophorus occidentalis; western grebe; Fulmarus glacialis; northern fulmar; 

Puffinus creatopus; pink-footed shearwater; Puffinus gravis; great shearwater; Puffinus griseus; 

sooty shearwater; Puffinus tenuirostris; short-tailed shearwater; Pterodroma cahow; Bermuda 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

126 

petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma homochroa; ashy petrel; 

Oceanodroma melania; black petrel; Oceanodroma microsoma; least petrel; Oceanites 

oceanicus; Wilson's petrel; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; white pelican; Pelecanus occidentalis; 

brown pelican; Sula bassana; gannet; Sula leucogaster; brown booby; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

double-crested cormorant; Ardea herodias; great blue heron; / Anas platyrhynchos; mallard; 

Anas rubripes; American black duck; Accipiter striatus; sharp-shinned hawk; Accipiter cooperii; 

Cooper’s hawk; Buteo jamaicensis; red-tailed hawk; Buteo swainsoni; Swainson’s hawk; Buteo 

regalis; Ferruginous hawk; Aquila chrysaetos; golden eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; bald 

eagle; Circus cyaneus; marsh hawk; Falco columbarius; pigeon hawk; Falco mexicanus; prairie 

falcon; Falco sparverius; American kestrel; Charadrius semipalmatus; semipalmated plover; 

Charadrius vociferus; killdeer; Pluvialis squatarola; black-bellied plover; Scolopax minor; 

American woodcock; Gallinago gallinago; common snipe; Numenius americanus; long-billed 

curlew; Actitis macularia; spotted sandpiper; Catoptrophorus semipalmatus; willet; Tringa 

flavipes; lesser yellowlegs; Calidris minutilla; least sandpiper; Calidris alpina; dunlin; 

Limnodromus griseus; short-billed dowitcher; Limosa fedoa; marbled godwit; Recurvirostra 

americana; American avocet; Phalaropus fulicarius; red phalarope; Phalaropus lobatus; rednecked phalarope; Larus occidentalis; western gull; Larus argentatus; herring gull; Larus 

californicus; California gull; Sterna hirundo; common tern; Sterna elegans; elegant tern; Uria 

aalge; common murre; Alle alle; little auk; Brachyramphus marmoratus; marbled murrelet; 

Synthliboramphus antiquus; ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus craveri; Craveri's murrelet; 

Ptychoramphus aleuticus; Cassin's auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; rhinoceros auklet; 

Fratercula arctica; Atlantic puffin; Bubo virginianus; great horned owl; Speotyto cunicularia; 

burrowing owl; Asio otus; long-eared owl; Asio flammeus; short-eared owl; Eremophila 

alpestris; horned lark; Sturnus vulgaris; starling 

ABSTRACT: A review with 35 references. This report concentrated on contaminant studies in 

North American birds published within the last 5 years. Data was chosen to compare 

contaminants between groups of birds as well as geographically across North America. 

Kennedy, S. W.; Fox, G. A.; Trudeau, S.; Bastien, L. J.; and Jones, S. P. 1998. Highly 

carboxylated porphyrin concentration: a biochemical marker of PCB exposure in herring gulls. 

Mar. Environ. Res. 46(1-5):65-69. 

Rec #: 427 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; organochlorines; PCBs; toxicology; 

effects; porphyrin; Great Lakes; Canada; North America 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Our previous studies showed that the concentration of highly carboxylated 

porphyrins (HCPs) was higher in livers of herring gulls (Larus argentatus) from the Great Lakes 

than in livers of herring gulls from a relatively uncontaminated area of the Atlantic coast of 

Canada. Since there are relatively few causes of elevated HCPs other than exposure to certain 

halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons (HAHs), we suggested that HCP concentration might offer 

promise as a biochemical marker of HAH exposure in herring gulls. We did not confirm if, or 

identify which, HAHs were the cause of elevated HCPs. Here we provide evidence that 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are a likely cause of HCP accumulation in herring gulls. HCP 

concentration was measured in livers of adult gulls that were collected from several sites on the 

Great Lakes and from two reference sites. Non-polar extracts prepared from the livers were 

assayed for porphyrinogenic potency in a chicken embryo hepatocyte (CEH) bioassay, and 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

127 

analyzed for concentrations of various HAHs, including PCBs. There was a good linear 

correlation between (a) liver HCP concentration and porphyrinogenic potency of liver extracts, 

and (b) liver HCP and PCB concentration Congener-specific analysis suggested that the monoortho substituted PCB congeners 2,3,3',4,4'-pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 105) and 2,3',4,4',5-

pentachlorobiphenyl (PCB 118) were the congeners which contributed most to elevated HCPs in 

gull livers. We conclude that HCP concentration is a good biochemical marker of PCB exposure 

in herring gulls. 

Kennedy, S. W.; Lorenzen, A.; James, C. A.; and Norstrom, R. J. 1992. Ethoxyresorufin-Odeethylase (EROD) and porphyria induction in chicken embryo hepatocyte cultures - A new 

bioassay of PCB, PCDD, and related chemical contamination in wildlife. Chemosphere. 25(1-

2):193-196. 

Rec #: 96 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; toxicology; EROD; porphyrin; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; great blue heron; Ardea herodias; egg; effects; Great Lakes; British Columbia; 

Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: Ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) and porphyria induction potencies of 

extracts from polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro dibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) 

contaminated eggs of Herring Gulls, Larus argentatus from the Great Lakes of North America, 

and Great Blue Herons, Ardea herodias from British Columbia were measured in primary 

cultures of chicken embryo hepatocytes. The results show that EROD and porphyria induction in 

these cells have potential for determining the toxic potencies of complex mixtures of halogenated 

aromatic hydrocarbons (HAHs) extracted from wildlife tissue. 

Khan, R. A. and Ryan, P. 1991. Long term effects of crude oil on common murres (Uria aalge) 

following rehabilitation. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 46(2):216-222. 

Rec #: 244 

KEYWORDS: oil; common murre; Uria aalge; effects; North America; Canada; 

Newfoundland; carcass; liver; kidney; intestine; toxicology 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The purpose of this communication is to report the long term effects of crude oil 

on common murres. 

Kierkegaard, Amelie; Sellström, Ulla; Bignert, Anders; Olsson, Mats; Asplund, Lillemor; 

Jansson, Bo; and De Wit, Cynthia. 1999. Temporal trends of a polybrominated diphenyl ether 

(PBDE), a methoxylated PBDE, and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) in Swedish biota. 

Organohalogen Compounds. 40:367-370. 

Rec #: 500 

KEYWORDS: PBDEs; organochlorines; PCBs; HBCD; common murre; Uria aalge; egg; Baltic 

Sea; Sweden; Europe; temporal trends; biomagnification 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The temporal variations were studied of 2,2',4,4'-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE 

47), 2-methoxy-2',4,4',6-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (MeO-BDE47), and hexabromocyclodecane 

(HBCD) in pike and roach muscle from Swedish lakes and in guillemot (Uria aalge) eggs from 

the Baltic Sea. In pike, BDE47 concentrations increased from 1967 to the early 1980s. From 

1984 to 1997, large variations occurred between years and between individuals within each year 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

128 

with a stagnant trend. In roach, concentrations were lower with similar variations. Maximum 

concentrations appeared in 1988. BDE47 dominated over BDE99, which was, with few 

exceptions, below the quantification limit. For MeO-BDE47 in pike, the trend showed 

decreasing concentrations. The initial concentrations exceeded the highest BDE47 levels by 

factor 3 (490 ng/g lpw). In the 1990s, a reversed trend was observed with variations. HBCD 

concentrations in guillemot showed an increase over the entire time. Traces below the 

quantification limit were also found in pike and roach. The authors suggest that these higher 

HBCD levels may be due to biomagnification. 

Kim, E. Y.; Goto, R.; Tanabe, S.; Tanaka, H.; and Tatsukawa, R. 1998. Distribution of 14 

elements in tissues and organs of oceanic seabirds. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 35(4):638-

645. 

Rec #: 190 

KEYWORDS: metals; Li; V; Mn; Co; Cu; Zn; Se; Rb; Sr; Ag; Cd; Cs; Pb; Hg; brain; lung; 

heart; stomach; intestine; liver; pancreas; spleen; gallbladder; kidney; gonad; gland; fat; bone; 

muscle; skin; eyeball; feather; trachea; esophagus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; royal 

albatross; Diomedea epomophora; black-footed albatross; Diomedea nigripes; black-browed 

albatross; Diomedea melanophris; white-capped albatross; Diomedea cauta; yellow-nosed 

albatross; Diomedea chlororhynchos; grey-headed albatross; Diomedea chrysostoma; lightmantled sooty albatross; Phoebetria palpebrata; northern giant petrel; Macronectes halli; grey 

petrel; Procellaria cinerea; white-chinned petrel; Procellaria aequinoctialis; Pacific Ocean; 

Indian Ocean 

ABSTRACT: The concentrations of 14 trace elements (Li, V, Mn, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, Rb, Sr, Ag, 

Cd, Cs, Pb, and Hg) were determined in tissues and organs of three species and in the liver of 11 

species of seabirds. Comparatively high concentrations of Li, Co, Sr, and V were found in the 

femur. Cd, Se, Cu, and Mn concentrations were relatively higher in the kidney than in other 

tissues and organs. Rb, Cs, and Pb concentrations were rather uniform among tissues. 

Concentrations of essential elements such as Mn, Cu, and Co were comparable among seabird 

species, except high Cu concentrations in northern giant petrel. Among nonessential elements, 

concentrations of Cd and Hg were variable according to seabird species. Pb levels were low in 

all the species. High Se levels (100 μg/g dry weight) were found in the liver of black-footed 

albatross and grey petrel. There were significant positive correlations between Se and Cd 

concentrations in three species and between Se and Hg in black-footed albatross, suggesting that 

Se has an antagonistic action on the toxic effects of Cd and Hg. Concentrations of Li, V, Ag, and 

Cs were usually low (less than 1 μg/g dry weight). 

Kim, E. Y.; Murakami, T.; Saeki, K.; and Tatsukawa, R. 1996. Mercury levels and its chemical 

form in tissues and organs of seabirds. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 30(2):259-266. 

Rec #: 194 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; black-footed albatross; Diomedea 

nigripes; arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; northern fulmar; 

Fulmarus glacialis; herring gull; Larus argentatus; royal albatross; Diomedea epomophora; 

laysan albatross; Diomedea immutabilis; white-chinned petrel; Procellaria aequinoctialis; brown 

booby; Sula leucogaster; body burden; liver; muscle; feather; kidney; Russia; Asia; Pacific 

Ocean; Indian Ocean 

ABSTRACT: Liver, muscle, kidney, and feather samples from nine species of seabirds were 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

129 

analyzed for total and organic (methyl) mercury (MM). Total mercury (TM) levels in liver 

showed great intra- and inter-species variations, with the concentrations varied from 306 μg/g 

(dry weight) in black-footed albatross (Diomedea nigripes) to 4.9 μg/g in arctic tern (Sterna 

paradisaea), while MM levels were less relatively variable. The order of MM concentrations in 

tissues of all the seabirds except oldsquaw (Clangula hyemalis) was as follows: liver > kidney > 

muscle. The mean percentage of MM in total was 35 %, 36 %, and 66 % in liver, kidney, and 

muscle, respectively, for all the species. Statistically significant negative correlations were found 

between the proportion of MM to TM and concentrations of TM in the liver and muscle of blackfooted albatross and in the liver of laysan albatross. Furthermore, the percentage of MM 

decreased with an increase in TM concentrations in the liver, muscle, and kidney of all the 

species. Black-footed albatross had the highest concentration and burden of mercury in the liver, 

wherein more than 70 % of the TM occurred as inorganic mercury. On the other hand, the 

mercury burdens in feathers were less than 10 % of the body burdens, indicating that excretion of 

mercury by moulting is negligible. The results suggest that some seabirds are capable of 

demethylating MM in the tissues (mainly in liver), and store mercury as an immobilizable 

inorganic form in the liver. It is noteworthy that the species with a high degree of demethylation 

capacity and slow moulting pattern showed low mercury burdens in feathers. 

Kim, E. Y.; Saeki, K.; Tanabe, S.; Tanaka, H.; and Tatsukawa, R. 1996. Specific accumulation 

of mercury and selenium in seabirds. Environ. Pollut. 94(3):261-265. 

Rec #: 193 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Se; organometallics; organic Hg; elimination; liver; northern fulmar; 

Fulmarus glacialis; royal albatross; Diomedea epomophora; black-footed albatross; Diomedea 

nigripes; white-capped albatross; Diomedea cauta; yellow-nosed albatross; Diomedea 

chlororhynchos; light-mantled sooty albatross; Phoebetria palpebrata; northern giant petrel; 

Macronectes halli; grey petrel; Procellaria cinerea; white-chinned petrel; Procellaria 

aequinoctialis; brown booby; Sula leucogaster; Pacific Ocean; Indian Ocean 

ABSTRACT: Total mercury (T-Hg), methyl mercury (MeHg) and selenium (Se) concentrations 

were determined to elucidate the relationship between Hg and Se levels in the liver of 10 seabird 

species. Highest concentrations of T-Hg (mean 267 μg/g dry weight), MeHg (mean 25.5 μg/g 

dry weight) and Se (mean 113 μg/g dry weight) were in the liver of black-footed albatross 

(Diomedea nigripes). An equivalent molar ratio of 1:1 between T-Hg and Se was found in the 

liver of individuals which contain over 100 μg Hg/g. However, such a relationship was unclear 

in other individuals which had relatively low Hg levels. This suggests that Se plays a role in Hg 

detoxification for those individuals with high Hg. In seabird tissues, Hg and Se levels should be a 

most important factor determining the relationship between big and Se, and fluctuation of Hg 

burden through molting and the species-specific demethylation capacity would also influence 

their relationships. 

Kim, Eun-young; Ichihashi, Hideki; Atrashkevich, G. I.; Andreev, A. V.; Tanabe, Shinsuke; and 

Tatsukawa, Ryo. 1994. Accumulation and fluctuation of heavy metals in migrating birds in 

breeding area, Northeast Siberia. Kankyo Kagaku. 4(2):614-615. 

Rec #: 385 

KEYWORDS: metals; Fe; Mn; Zn; Cu; Cd; Hg; kidney; liver; feather; long-tailed duck; 

Clangula hyemalis; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; pintail; Anas acuta; herring gull; Larus 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

130 

argentatus; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Sabine's gull; Larus sabini; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; long-tailed jaeger; Stercorarius longicaudus; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius 

parasiticus; red-throated loon; Gavia stellata; Arctic loon; Gavia arctica; Russia; Asia 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Studied were the accumulation and fluctuation of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Cd, and Hg in 

kidney, liver, feather, etc. of northeast Siberia birds. The birds included Oldsquaw, King Eider, 

Pintail, Herring Gull, Glaucous Gull, Sabine's Gull, Arctic Tern, Long-tail Jaeger, Parasitic 

Jaeger, Red-throated Loon, and Arctic Loon. 

Kim, Eun-Young; Ichihashi, Hideki; Saeki, Kazutoshi; Atrashkevich, Gennady; Tanabe, 

Shinsuke; and Tatsukawa, Ryo. 1996. Metal accumulation in tissues of seabirds from Chaun, 

northeast Siberia, Russia. Environ. Pollut. 92(3):247-252. 

Rec #: 469 

KEYWORDS: metals; Fe; Mn; Zn; Cu; Cd; Hg; Russia; Asia; long-tailed duck; Clangula 

hyemalis; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; pintail; Anas acuta; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Sabine's gull; Larus sabini; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; 

long-tailed jaeger; Stercorarius longicaudus; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius parasiticus; redthroated loon; Gavia stellata; Arctic loon; Gavia arctica; muscle; liver; kidney; feather; 

bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of four essential elements (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) and two toxic 

metals (Cd and Hg) were detected in selected tissues of 11 seabird species collected in Chaun, 

northeast Siberia. In oldsquaw, arctic tern and herring gull, zinc concentrations were correlated 

with Cd concentrations. Cadmium concentrations in all the species were highest in kidney and 

Hg in liver. Cd levels in the liver and kidney of herring gulls were higher than those observed 

from other breeding areas. Similarly, Hg concentrations were also high in the liver of herring 

gull. High concentrations of Cd and Hg found in some birds from Chaun might have arisen from 

exposure on migration. 

Koistinen J.; Koivusaari, J.; Nuuja, I.; and Paasivirta, J. 1995. PCDEs, PCBs, PCDDs and 

PCDFs in black guillemots and white-tailed sea eagles from the Baltic Sea. Chemosphere. 

30(9):1671-1684 . 

Rec #: 320 

KEYWORDS: black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; white-tailed sea-eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; 

egg; Baltic Sea; Finland; Europe; organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; 

PCDEs; PCDDs; PCDFs; toxicology; TEQs 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations and patterns of several chloro compounds including 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), dibenzofurans (PCDF), biphenyls (PCB) and 

diphenyl ethers (PCDE) were determined in black guillemots (Cepphus grylle L.) and whitetailed sea-eagles (Haliaeetus albicilla L.) from the Baltic Sea environment. Three breast muscles 

of eagles were analyzed and had different concentrations and patterns of the studied compounds, 

whereas the three guillemot eggs were found to have more similar levels and patterns. The 

concentrations of individual PCDE congeners varied from <3 to 79 ng/g lipid weight (1w) in 

guillemots and from <5 to 13,000 ng/g 1w in eagles. Toxic PCDDs and PCDFs occurred at lower 

concentrations than toxic coplanar PCB congeners in both guillemots and eagles. The toxic load 

as TCDD equivalents (TEQ) for coplanar PCBs was on average 5 ng/g 1w in guillemots and 

ranged from 9 to 340 ng/g 1w in eagles. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

131 

Koslowski, Susan E.; Metcalfe, Christopher D.; Lazar, Rodica; and Haffner, G. Douglas. 1994. 

The distribution of 42 PCBs, including three coplanar congeners, in the food web of the western 

basin of Lake Erie. J. Great Lakes Res. 20(1):260-270. 

Rec #: 333 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; organochlorines; PCBs; biomagnification; 

Great Lakes; North America 

ABSTRACT: Non-ortho substituted PCBs, IUPAC numbers 77, 126, and 169, along with 39 

other PCB congeners were quantified in samples of Lake Erie sediment and biota during the 

summer of 1991. Many PCB congeners were found at elevated levels, and biomagnification was 

apparent in all congeners but was more predominant in congeners with relatively high octanolwater partition coefficients. Congener 126 was found primarily in benthic fish and top predators, 

whereas there was no significant differences in the concentrations of congener 77 in fish species 

of the benthic and pelagic food web. Congener 169 was found at very low concentrations in the 

food web of Lake Erie. There were also significant differences in concentrations of coplanar 

PCBs among liver, egg, and muscle tissues, but trends were not consistent among all the species 

examined. 

Koster, M. D.; Ryckman, D. P.; Weseloh, D. V. C.; and Struger, J. 1996. Mercury levels in Great 

Lakes herring gull (Larus argentatus) eggs, 1972-1992. Environ. Pollut. 93(3):261-270. 

Rec #: 157 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; North America; Great Lakes; 

temporal trends; reproductive success; effects 

ABSTRACT: Since 1971, the herring gull (Larus argentatus) has been used as a sentinel 

species for monitoring the levels of persistent contaminants in the Great Lakes ecosystem. In this 

study, 21 herring gull colonies in the Great Lakes and connecting channels were sampled during 

1972-1976, 1981-1983, 1985 and 1992. For each year, 10 eggs (usually) were collected from 

each colony site and analyzed for total mercury (μg/g, wet weight). Results indicated that eggs 

from Lake Ontario displayed the highest lake-wide mercury levels (0.28-0.73 μg/g), followed by 

Lake Superior (0.21-0.50 μg /g). Lake Erie typically displayed the lowest mercury levels (0.18-

0.24 μg/g). Overall, mercury levels ranged from 0.12 μg/g in 1985 to 0.88 μg/g in 1982 for 

Channel Shelter Island (Lake Huron) and Pigeon Island (Lake Ontario), respectively. Generally, 

all colony sites showed peak egg mercury levels in 1982. A significant decline in egg mercury 

levels was observed in five colony sites for the period 1972-1992 and in three different colony 

sites for the period 1981-1992. Mercury levels in the eggs of herring gulls for the period of this 

study were below levels associated with acute toxic effects in this species but were within a 

range, for certain years, which potentially reduces hatchability in other avian species. 

Krol, W. J.; Arsenault, T.; and Mattina, M. J. I. 2002. Persistent organochlorine pesticide 

contamination of birds collected in Connecticut during the year 2000. Bull. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 69(3):452-458. 

Rec #: 361 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; DDTs; chlordanes; dieldrin; 

brain; gizzard; liver; CT; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: Residues of persistent organochlorine pesticides (POPs) were analyzed in avian 

tissues. Brain, gizzard, and liver samples were examined. Namely residues of chlordane-related 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

132 

compounds were found in 43 % of the birds. The DDT metabolite 2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)-1,1-

dichloroethylene, heptachlor epoxide, cis-nonachlor, trans-nonachlor, oxychlordane, and MC5, a 

component of tech. chlordane, were detected Dieldrin was found only in 1 bird. POPs were 

more prevalent in gizzard than in either the brain or liver tissue. Despite banning POPs in 1988, 

they continue to pervade environment. 

Kubiak, T. J.; Harris, H. J.; Smith, L. M.; Schwartz, T. R.; Stalling, D. L.; Trick, J. A.; Sileo, L.; 

Docherty, D.; and Erdman, T. C. 1989. Microcontaminants and reporductive impairment of the 

Forster's tern on Green Bay, Lake Michigan-1983. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 18:706-727. 

Rec #: 522 

KEYWORDS: Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; organochlorines; PCDDs; PCBs; Great Lakes; WI; 

USA; North America; egg; toxicology; AHH; effects; reproductive success 

ABSTRACT: For the 1983 nesting season, Forster's tern (Sterna forsteri) reproductive success 

was significantly impaired on organochlorine contaminated Green Bay, Lake Michigan 

compared to a relatively uncontaminated inland location at Lake Poygan, Wisconsin. Compared 

with tern eggs from Lake Poygan, eggs from Green Bay had significantly higher median 

concentrations of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), other polychlorinated dibenzo-pdioxins (PCDDs), total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), total (three congeners) non-ortho, 

ortho' PCBs, five individual PCB congeners known to induce aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase 

(AHH) and several other organochlorine contaminants. Conversions of analytical concentrations 

of TCDD and PCB congeners based on relative AHH induction potencies allowed for estimation 

of total 2,3,7,8-TCDD equivalents. Two PCB congeners, 2,3,3',4,4'- and 3,3',4,4',5-

pentachlorobiphenyl (PeCB) accounted for more than 90 % of the median estimated TCDD 

equivalents at both Green Bay and Lake Poygan. The median estimated TCDD equivalents were 

almost 11-fold higher in tern eggs from Green Bay than in eggs from Lake Poygan (2175 and 

201 pg/g). The hatching success of Green Bay sibling eggs from nests where eggs were 

collected for contaminant analyses was 75 % lower at Green Bay than at Lake Poygan. 

Hatchability of eggs taken from other nests and artificially incubated was about 50 % lower for 

Green Bay than for Lake Poygan. Among hatchlings from laboratory incubation, those from 

Green Bay weighed approximately 20 % less and had a mean liver weight to body weight ratio 

26 % greater than those from Lake Poygan. In both field and laboratory, mean minimum 

incubation periods were significantly longer for eggs from Green Bay compared to Lake Poygan 

(8.25 and 4.58 days, respectively). Mean minimum incubation time for Green Bay eggs in the 

field was 4.37 days longer than in the laboratory. 

 Hatchability was greatly improved when Green Bay eggs were incubated by Lake Poygan adults 

in an egg-exchange experiment, but was sharply decreased in Lake Poygan eggs incubated in 

Green Bay nests. Nest abandonment and egg disappearance were substantial at Green Bay but 

nil at Lake Poygan. Thus, not only factors intrinsic to the egg, but also extrinsic factors (parental 

attentiveness), impaired reproductive outcome at Green Bay. The epidemiological evidence 

from this study strongly suggested that contaminants were a causal factor. AHH-active PCB 

congeners (intrinsic effects) and PCBs in general (extrinsic effects) appeared to be the only 

contaminants at the concentrations measured in eggs, capable of producing the effects that were 

observed at Green Bay. 

Kucklick, John R.; Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Becker, Paul R.; Pugh, Rebecca S.; Simac, Kristin; 

York, Geoff W.; and Roseneau, David G. 2002. Persistent organic pollutants in murre eggs from 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

133 

the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. Organohalogen Compounds. 59:13-16. 

Rec #: 496 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; egg; common 

murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; AK; USA; North America; Gulf of Alaska; 

Bering Sea; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The objective of this work was to generate persistent organic pollutant data on 

murre eggs from the five colonies so far sampled and to examine geographical differences in the 

persistent organic pollutant levels and patterns. 

Kuhnlein, H. V. and Chan H. M. 2000. Environment and contaminants in traditional food 

systems of Northern indigenous peoples. Annu. Rev. Nutr. 20:595-626. 

Rec #: 428 

KEYWORDS: review; metals; As; Cd; Pb; Hg; organochlorines; aldrin; chlordanes; benzenes; 

DDTs; dieldrin; TCDDs; HCHs; PCBs; toxaphene; radionuclides; organometallics; organic Hg; 

Canada goose; Branta canadensis; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; white-winged scoter; 

Melanitta fusca; surf scoter; Melanitta perspicillata; effects; AK; AZ; NM; NY; WI; USA; 

British Columbia; Newfoundland; Northwest Territories; Ontario; Quebec; Saskatchewan; 

Yukon; Canada; North America; Atlantic Ocean; Pacific Ocean; Gulf of Alaska; Bering Sea; 

Great Lakes; Baltic Sea; North Sea; Greenland; Svalbard; Norway; Iceland; Finland; Sweeden; 

Europe 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: A review with 132 references Traditional food resources of indigenous peoples 

are now recognized as containing a variety of environmental contaminants which reach food 

species through local or long-range transport avenues. Data from published reports on 

contaminants contained in traditional foods in northern North America and Europe, as 

organochlorines, heavy metals, and radionuclides, are presented. Usually multiple contaminants 

are contained in the same food species. Measurement of dietary exposure to these environmental 

contaminants and major issues of risk assessment, evaluation and management are discussed. 

The dilemma faced by indigenous peoples in weighing the multiple nutritional and 

socioeconomic benefits of traditional food use against risk of contaminants in culturally 

important food resources is described. 

Kuiken, Thijs; Fox, Glen A.; and Danesik, Karen L. 1999. Bill malformations in double-crested 

cormorants with low exposure to organochlorines . Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 18(12):2908-2913. 

Rec #: 26 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; hydrocarbons; PAHs; metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Se; 

ultraviolet radiation; toxicology; Canada; Saskatchewan; North America; double-crested 

cormorant; liver; kidney; Phalacrocorax auritus; abnormalities; effects 

ABSTRACT: Eight of 20 newly hatched double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus), 

captured at Dore Lake (Saskatchewan, Canada) and raised in captivity, developed malformed 

bills when they were 2 to 3 weeks old. Malformation was characterized by abnormal flexure and 

rotation of the maxilla and mandible, resulting in a crossed bill. By radiography, the premaxillary 

and dental bones were misshapen. Morphologically similar malformed bills in free-living 

cormorants have been attributed to exposure to polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. 

However, the concentrations of total PCBs in the livers of these captive cormorants with 

malformed bills and in their diet were lower than have been previously associated with such 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

134 

malformations and were considered too low to have been the cause. The bill malformations may 

have been caused by deficiency of vitamin D3, because the cormorants were kept indoors without 

exposure to ultraviolet light and were fed frozen fish that may have been deficient in this 

vitamin. 

Kunisue, Tatsuya; Minh, Tu Binh; Fukuda, Kayo; Watanabe, Mafumi; Tanabe, Shinsuke; and 

Titenko, Alexei M. 2002. Seasonal variation of persistent organochlorine accumulation in birds 

from Lake Baikal, Russia, and the role of the South Asian region as a source of pollution for 

wintering migrants. Environ. Sci. Technol. 36(7):1396-1404. 

Rec #: 362 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; toxicology; TEQs; Russia; 

Asia; muscle; carcass; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus; black-headed 

gull; Larus ridibundus; seasonal variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of persistent organochlorines (OCs), such as polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCBs), DDT and its metabolites (DDTs), hexachlorocyclohexane isomers (HCHs), 

and chlordane compounds (CHLs), were detected in whole body soft tissue homogenates and in 

muscles of resident and migratory birds collected from Lake Baikal, Russia. The residue pattern 

in both resident and migratory birds was in the following order: PCBs > DDTs > HCHs > CHLs. 

OC concentrations in migratory birds varied, depending on the feeding habits. The maximum 

levels of OCs were found in piscivores, followed by insectivores, omnivores, and herbivores. 

OC residue levels in Lake Baikal birds were lower than those in the Great Lakes region, as well 

as in other lakes in Europe and Japan. Concentrations of HCHs and DDTs in most of the 

migratory birds collected in the spring were higher than for those collected in the autumn, 

indicating a notable accumulation in wintering grounds. Compilation and analysis of the 

available data in fish and birds from Asia suggested that the tropical and subtropical regions in 

south Asian countries may be a source of pollution for the wintering accumulation of migratory 

birds from Lake Baikal. Relatively higher compositions of α- and γ-HCH in total HCHs and 

p,p'-DDT in total DDTs were observed in some migratory species, indicating recent exposure to 

HCHs and DDTs in Lake Baikal or wintering areas. PCB isomer patterns were different between 

residents and migrants, with the predominance of lower chlorinated congeners in migratory 

species, suggesting recent PCB accumulation in stopover sites during wintering. TEQ 

concentrations of toxic non- and mono-ortho coplanar PCBs in common terns from Lake Baikal 

were comparable to those reported in some species from Japan, the USA, and Europe. Relative 

contributions of non-ortho coplanar congeners to toxic equivalents (TEQs) were predominant, in 

which PCB-126 accounted for the highest toxicity contribution. Estimated TEQ concentrations 

in the common tern from Lake Baikal exceeded the levels associated with enzyme induction in 

bald eagles. To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study showing the seasonal 

variations of OC accumulation in the birds from Lake Baikal. 

Kury, Channing R. 1969. Pesticide residues in a marine population of double-crested cormorants. 

J. Wildl. Manage. 33(1):91-95. 

Rec #: 414 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

brain; gonad; heart; egg; ME; USA; North America; biomagnification; bioaccumulation; gender 

differences; reproductive success; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: The average levels of pesticide in tissues from 21 adult and 4 immature 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

135 

cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and 24 eggs which were collected from Muscongus Bay, 

Maine in 1966 were: brains, 1.5 ppm. DDE; gonads, 6.5 ppm. DDE; hearts, 3.0 ppm. DDE; eggs, 

1.5 ppm. DDT, 0.7 ppm. DDD, and 6.2 ppm. DDE. Food samples (41) had no detectable 

amounts of pesticide (detectable limit 0.05 ppm.). In 1967, the 18 adult brains collected from 

Muscongus Bay had an average level of 0.34 ppm. DDE. Only 5 of 23 samples (representing 89 

individuals) of brains of nestlings from both Muscongus Bay and Duck Island had measurable 

amounts of pesticide and these varied from a trace to 0.29 ppm. DDE. Eggs (11) from Duck 

Island had an average level of 4.5 ppm. DDT, 1.5 ppm. DDD, and 7.6 ppm. DDE. 

Kuzyk, Zou Zou A.; Burgess, Neil M.; Stow, Jason P.; and Fox, Glen A. 2003. Biological effects 

of marine PCB contamination on black guillemot nestlings at Saglek, Labrador: Liver 

biomarkers. Ecotoxicology. 12(1-4):183-197. 

Rec #: 351 

KEYWORDS: black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; 

chlordanes; HCB; DDTs; dieldrin; metals; As; Cu; Se; Zn; Hg; toxicology; TEQs; EROD; 

retinol; porphyrin; liver; Labrador; Canada; North America; effects 

ABSTRACT: Black guillemots (Cepphus grylle) in Saglek Bay, Labrador have elevated 

polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations due to marine sediment contamination around a 

former military site. We measured liver biomarkers and ΣPCB concentrations in 31 nestlings 

from three PCB-exposure groups: reference group (range: 15-46 ng/g liver, wet weight), 

moderately exposed Islands group (24-150 ng/g), and highly exposed Beach group (170-6200 

ng/g). Biomarker responses were dose-dependent and in some cases sex-dependent. Livers of 

female Beach nestlings were enlarged 36 % relative to reference females. In both sexes, Beach 

nestlings had liver ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activities elevated 79 % and liver 

retinol concentrations reduced 47 %. Retinyl palmitate concentrations were reduced 50 % but 

only among female nestlings. Island nestlings also exhibited EROD induction (57 %) and 

reductions in retinol and retinyl palmitate concentrations (28 and 58 %, respectively). Liver lipid 

content increased with ΣPCBs in both sexes, and correlated with liver mass in males. Malic 

enzyme activity and porphyrin concentrations showed little association with ΣPCBs. Although 

similar associations between liver biomarkers and organochlorine exposure in fish-eating birds 

are well documented, typically exposures involve multiple contaminants and there is uncertainty 

about specific PCB effects. Our findings indicate that liver biomarkers respond to relatively low 

PCB exposures (approximately 73 ng/g liver) in guillemots. 

Lande, Eirik. 1977. Heavy metal pollution in Trondheimsfjorden, Norway, and the recorded 

effects on the fauna and flora. Environ. Pollut. 12(3):187-198. 

Rec #: 512 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Cu; Fe; Ni; Cr; Ag; Zn; Hg; Norway; Europe; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; muscle; liver; kidney; egg; spatial 

variations; biomagnification; effects 

ABSTRACT: The extent of heavy metal pollution in Trondheimsfjorden was investigated 

throughout the period 1972-73. Samples of invertebrates and seaweeds from the intertidal zone 

were collected and parts of some pelagic and bottom-dwelling fish were also sampled for the 

analysis of Cd, Cu, Fe, Ni, Cr, Ag, Zn, and Hg. Heavy metal pollution was found in 2 distinct 

areas of the fjord. The qualitative and quantitative changes in the faunal assemblages of these 2 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

136 

areas are described. 

Langlois, Claude and Langis, René. 1995. Presence of airborne contaminants in the wildlife of 

northern Quebec. Sci. Total Environ. 160-161:391-402. 

Rec #: 195 

KEYWORDS: metals; organochlorines; North America; Canada; Quebec; biomagnification; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima; arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; green-winged teal; Anas crecca; pintail; Anas 

acuta; common merganser; Mergus merganser; red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; 

American black duck; Anas rubripes; common loon; Gavia immer; great black-backed gull; 

Larus marinus; willow ptarmigan; Lagopus lagopus; muscle; liver; feather; egg; Hg; As; Cd; Pb; 

Se; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; mirex; dieldrin 

ABSTRACT: As part of the environmental impact studies of the Great Whale and the 

Nottaway-Broadback-Rupert (NBR) hydroelectric projects, Hydro-Quebec collected data on the 

occurrence and levels of several contaminants present in wildlife from both regions between 

1989 and 1991. The analyses performed included metals (mercury, arsenic, selenium, cadmium, 

lead, nickel and copper), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs as arochlors or the sum of 20-40 

congeners) and organochlorine pesticides such as hexachlorobenzene (HCB), DDT, DDE, 

hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), chlordane, mirex and dieldrin. Species sampled included fish 

(freshwater and marine), birds (waterfowl, gull and ptarmigan), terrestrial mammals (marten, 

mink and hare) and marine mammals (freshwater and marine seals, belugas). Most laboratory 

analyses were carried out on both muscle and liver tissues, but some were conducted on other 

tissues as well: feathers, eggs and blubber. The results indicate that numerous airborne 

contaminants were present in the wildlife of both the Great Whale and the NBR study areas and 

that their level of contamination was similar to that of other northern environments. Total 

mercury in muscle was high in piscivorous fish, birds and mammals (terrestrial and marine). We 

observed significant levels of cadmium and lead in the livers of some herbivorous terrestrial 

animals, such as ptarmigans and hares. Among the organochlorine contaminants analyzed, 

levels of PCBs and DDE in piscivorous birds (mergansers and loons) and in marine mammals 

(seals and belugas) were high. For some contaminants, such as mercury, cadmium, lead, PCBs 

and DDE, the levels observed in some species or tissues could be considered worrisome with 

regard to public health, if those species or tissues constitute an important part of traditional 

native diets. 

Larson, Jill M.; Karasov, William H.; Sileo, Louis; Stromborg, Kenneth L.; Hanbidge, Barbara 

A.; Giesy, John P.; Jones, Paul D.; Tillitt, Donald E.; and Verbrugge, David A. 1996. 

Reproductive success, developmental anomalies, and environmental contaminants in doublecrested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus ). Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 15(4):553-559. 

Rec #: 170 

KEYWORDS: reproductive success; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; toxicology; TEQs; 

EROD; WI; USA; Canada; Manitoba; Great Lakes; North America; effects; abnormalities; egg; 

double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: To test an association between environmental contaminants and the prevalence of 

congenital anomalies in colonial waterbirds, we collected representative eggs for chemical 

analysis from double-crested cormorant nests at colonies in Lake Michigan, Wisconsin, USA, 

and Lake Winnipegosis, Manitoba, Canada, and periodically revisited the nests to determine the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

137 

hatching success, survivorship of hatchlings, and number of deformed hatchlings in the 

remainder of each clutch. Total concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in eggs were 

determined by capillary gas chromatography. The combined activity of planar chlorinated 

hydrocarbons (PCHs) in the eggs was measured in an in vitro bioassay based on the induction of 

ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity in rat hepatoma cells. The combined EROD 

induction activity was expressed as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents (TCDDEQ). Total concentrations of PCBs and TCDD-EQ were seven to eight times greater in eggs 

from Lake Michigan (7.8 μg/g and 138 pg/g, respectively) than in those from Lake Winnipegosis 

(1.0 μg/g and 19 pg/g, respectively). The proportion of eggs hatching at the Lake Michigan 

colony (59 %) was less (p < 0.05) than at Lake Winnipegosis (70 %), and the prevalence of 

hatchlings with deformed bills was greater (p < 0.001) at Lake Michigan (0.79 vs. 0.06 %). 

However, within the Lake Michigan colony, concentrations of PCBs and TCDD-EQ were not 

correlated with either hatching success or the occurrence of deformities in nestlings. 

Lebedev, A. T.; Poliakova, O. V.; Karakhanova, N. K.; Petrosyan, V. S.; and Renzoni, A. 1998. 

The contamination of birds with organic pollutants in the Lake Baikal region. Sci. Total Environ. 

212(2-3):153-162. 

Rec #: 204 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; metabolism; egg; organochlorines; PCDFs; hydrocarbons; 

PAHs; phenols; Russia; Asia; goose; Anser anser; grey heron; Ardea cinerea; domestic fowl; 

Gallus gallus; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; pintail; Anas acuta; shoveler; Anas clypeata; tufted 

duck; Aythya fuligula; pochard; Aythya ferina; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; 

Larus canus; black headed gull; Larus ridibundus; horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; common 

tern; Sterna hirundo; lapwing; Vanellus vanellus; marsh sandpiper; Tringa stagnatilis

ABSTRACT: Lake Baikal is considered to be the largest reservoir of fresh natural water in the 

world. Nevertheless industrial enterprises on its banks as well as river effluents contaminate this 

unique basin. In the present study birds' eggs (15 species) collected in the Baikal region (Selenga 

river estuary) have been analysed. Quantitative determination of more than 40 individual organic 

pollutants (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, organochlorine compounds) has been 

carried out using GC-MS as an analytical tool. The results obtained demonstrated a wide range 

of toxicant concentrations (2-3 orders of magnitude) for various species. Very high levels of 

polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have been detected in the eggs of Anas platyrhynchos

(mallard), Tringa stagnatilis (marsh sandpiper) and Podiceps auritus (slavonian grebe). These 

particular species also have the highest levels of other toxicants. Taking into account high rate of 

metabolism of certain of these compounds in birds, it has been proposed that the major route of 

transfer into higher trophic levels is via water and aquatic invertebrates. 

Lee, Y-Z.; Leighton, F. A.; Peakall, D. B.; Norstrom, R. J.; O'Brien, P. J.; Payne, J. F.; and 

Rahimtula, A. D. 1985. Effects of ingestion of Hibernia and Prudhoe Bay crude oils on hepatic 

and renal mixed function oxidase in nestling herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Environ. Res. 

36(1):248-255. 

Rec #: 144 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; enzymes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; kidney; toxicology; 

MFOs; cytochrome P450; EROD; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

138 

ABSTRACT: Oral administration of Prudhoe Bay crude or Hibernia crude to nestling herring 

gulls increased the hepatic cytochrome P450 content 4-fold. Concomitantly, there was an increase 

in various mixed-function oxidase and phase II enzyme activities. 7-Ethoxyresorufin Odeethylase was elevated 19-fold, benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase 6-fold, aniline hydroxylase 3-

fold, and aminopyrine N-demethylase and uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase 2-fold. 

There was no change in reduced glutathione S-transferase activity. Renal mixed-function oxidase 

activities were also elevated. Herring gull livers contained very low levels of DT-diaphorase 

activity which was inducible 3- to 5-fold by oil administration. 

Leighton, F. A.; Lee, Y. Z.; Rahimtula, A. D.; O'Brien, P. J.; and Peakall, D. B. 1985. 

Biochemical and functional disturbances in red blood cells of herring gulls ingesting Prudhoe 

Bay crude oil. Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. 81(1):25-31 . 

Rec #: 151 

KEYWORDS: blood; oil; toxicology; dosing study; effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Heinz body hemolytic anemia developed in herring gull (Larus argentatus) 

nestlings given oral doses of 10 ml of Prudhoe Bay crude oil per kilogram of body weight per 

day for 5 days. Associated disturbances in red blood cells were increased amounts of reduced 

glutathione (GSH), peroxidation of membrane lipids, an increase in membrane permeability, and 

a decrease in the oxygen-carrying capacity of cyanomethemoglobin-convertible hemoglobin. 

Among groups of gulls given different cumulative doses of oil over a 6-day period, significant 

covariance with dose and dependence on dose was demonstrated for packed cell volume, 

hemoglobin, and red cell GSH. Rapid defecation of oil by gulls indicated that the effective dose 

was substantially less than the administered dose. Pronounced damage to red cells occurred in 

some birds administered oil for only 2 days. The data imply that the toxic effects of ingested oil 

may contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of oil-contaminated birds. 

Leighton, Frederick A.; Peakall, David B.; and Butler, Ronald G. 1983. Heinz-Body hemolytic 

anemia from the ingestion of crude oil: A primary toxic effect in marine birds. Science. 

220(4599):871-873. 

Rec #: 140 

KEYWORDS: blood; oil; effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; toxicology; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Hemolytic anemia developed in young herring gulls (Larus argentatus) and 

Atlantic puffins (Fratercula arctica) given daily oral doses of a Prudhoe Bay crude oil. Anemia 

developed 4 to 5 days after the initiation of oil ingestion and was accompanied by Heinz-body 

formation and a strong regenerative response. The data evince a toxic effect on circulating red 

blood cells involving an oxidative biochemical mechanism and the first clear evidence of a 

primary mechanism of toxicity from the ingestion of crude oil by birds. 

Lemmetyinen, Risto and Rantamäki, Pirjo. 1980. DDT and PCB residues in the arctic tern 

(Sterna paradisaea) nesting in the archipelago of southwestern Finland. Annales Zoologici 

Fennici. 17(3):141-146. 

Rec #: 471 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; liver; muscle; egg; Arctic tern; Sterna 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

139 

paradisaea; Finland; Europe; gender differences; age variations; biomagnification; effects; 

abnormalities 

ABSTRACT: Arctic terns of different ages and their eggs were collected in the archipelago of 

Southwestern Finland. DDT (I) [50-29-3] and PCB residues of the samples were analyzed by 

gas chromatography In the adults, there was a significant difference between the sexes, 

contamination being higher in the males, whose livers contained on average 31.4 mg/kg total I 

compounds and 80.1 mg/kg PCB compounds in extractable fat. In the females, the amounts of 

these residues were significantly smaller (21.4 and 38.7 mg/kg, respectively). The reason for the 

difference is probably that laying females are able to shed part of their pesticide loads, including 

total I and especially PCB, into the eggs. Total I contamination of tern eggs was 8.1 mg/kg of 

lipid weight and that of newly hatched chicks 10.5 mg/kg, the corresponding values for PCBs 

being 27.7 and 44.0 mg/kg, respectively In chicks 2-3 wk old, in contrast, contamination had 

decreased (mean total I 2.8 mg/kg and PCBs 10.8 mg/kg). Thus, when drawing up models of the 

accumulation of environmental pollutants along food chains, the stages of the life cycle at which 

samples were taken are important. No developmental defects in Arctic terns could be attributed 

to chlorinated hydrocarbons during the productivity study in 1965-1973. 

Lemmetyinen, Risto; Rantamäki, Pirjo; and Karlin, Antti. 1982. Levels of DDT and PCB's in 

different stages of life cycle of the arctic tern Sterna paradisaea and the herring gull Larus 

argentatus. Chemosphere. 11(10):1059-1068. 

Rec #: 177 

KEYWORDS: Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; 

DDTs; PCBs; Finland; Baltic Sea; Europe; egg; muscle; liver; age variations; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: Sigma DDT and PCB levels were analyzed in samples of arctic terns (Sterna 

paradisaea) and herring gulls (Larus argentatus) collected in the archipelago of southwestern 

Finland. The levels were nearly ten times higher in the herring gull. The highest loads were 

found in adult birds and in newly hatched chicks but the levels were much lower in chicks just 

before fledgling. The levels in young gulls remained low until the end of August at least. 

Therefore it is plausible that the high levels found in adult gulls are a consequence of their 

wintering in the southern Baltic. The level of Sigma DDT and PCB residues were significantly 

lower in female arctic terns than in male terns. Differences between the sexes were small in the 

herring gull. Thus it is possible that the female of the arctic tern in able to release pollutants, 

especially PCB residues, more effectively into eggs than the female of the herring gull. 

Leonzio, C.; Focardi, S.; Fossi, C.; and Renzoni, A. 1986. Sea-birds as indicators of mercury 

pollution in the Mediterranean. FAO Fish. Rep. 325:116-121. 

Rec #: 105 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Mediterranean Sea; Italy; Europe; egg; little tern; Sterna albifrons; 

black-necked grebe; Podiceps nigricollis; Cory's shearwater; Calonectris diomedea; Audouin's 

gull; Larus audouinii; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; little egret; Egretta garzetta; black-headed 

gull; Larus ridibundus; slender-billed gull; Larus genei; herring gull; Larus argentatus; gullbilled tern; Sterna nilotica; black-winged stilt; Himantopus himantopus; avocet; Recurvirostra 

avosetta; coot; Fulica atra; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; pygmy cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

pygmeus; great white pelican; Pelecanus onocrotalus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; little tern; 

Sterna albifrons; seasonal variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: An analysis was made of mercury in migratory water birds of the Mediterranean 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

140 

comparing results of analyses made a few days after survival in winter quarters with those made 

a few days before the flock's departure for breeding areas. Eggs of species breeding the 

Mediterranean Basin were also analysed. The liver was found to be the most contaminated organ 

in the birds, which clearly reflect the amount of mercury available in their feeding grounds. 

Leonzio, Claudio; Fossi, Cristina; and Focardi, Silvano. 1986. Lead, mercury, cadmium and 

selenium in two species of gull feeding on inland dumps, and in marine areas. Sci. Total Environ. 

57:121-127. 

Rec #: 106 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Hg; Se; Cd; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; Italy; Europe; fat; gland; muscle; brain; kidney; liver; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: The influence of the foraging area on the intake of trace elements was evaluated 

in tissues of two species of gull: the black-headed gull (Larus ridibundus) and the herring gull 

(Larus argentatus). Mercury levels were higher in birds from the coastal environment than in 

those caught on inland dumps; birds found at one dump site showed high levels of lead. 

Interspecific differences in the levels of mercury and cadmium are discussed. 

Lewis, S. A.; Becker, P. H.; and Furness, R. W. 1993. Mercury levels in eggs, tissues, and 

feathers of herring gulls, Larus argentatus, from the German Wadden Sea coast. Environ. Pollut. 

80(3):293-299. 

Rec #: 125 

KEYWORDS: effects; bioaccumulation; metals; Hg; egg; Wadden Sea; Germany; Europe; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; feather; muscle; liver; ovary; egg; elimination; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: The relationships between mercury levels in eggs, tissues, and feathers of male 

and female herring gulls (Larus argentatus) caught at their nests at a colony on the German 

Wadden Sea Coast were investigated, and an assessment of mercury intake and excretion of 

these birds was made. Samples of the liver, ovary, pectoral muscle, and body feathers, as well as 

the primary feather (in some cases), and eggs were taken from 37 adult herring gulls. Analysis of 

total mercury in all samples showed that body-feather and tissue levels were independent of sex. 

There was, however, a significant difference between levels of mercury in the primary feathers 

of male and female birds. Egg levels were not correlated to pectoral muscle, ovary, or feather 

levels although they were positively correlated with mercury levels in the liver. Liver levels were 

in turn correlated with mercury levels in the ovary. The ratio of mean feather to mean egg 

concentration ranged from 3.7 to 5.5 according to which feather was used. It was estimated that 

herring gulls from the Wadden coast ingested between 825 and 1337 μg of mercury in the year 

prior to analysis. It was also estimated that female birds may excrete over 20 % more mercury 

via their eggs than could be excreted by male birds. 

Lloyd, C.; Bogan, J. A.; Bourne, W. R. P.; Dawson, P.; Parslow, J. L. F.; and Stewart, A. G. 

1974. Seabird mortality in the North Irish Sea and Firth of Clyde early in 1974. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 

5(9):136-140. 

Rec #: 508 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; 

Alca torda; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common eider; Somateria mollissima; black-headed 

gull; Larus ridibundus; oystercatcher; Haematopus ostralegus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; common gull; Larus canus; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; redshank; Tringa 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

141 

totanus; red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; mute swan; Cygnus olor; liver; muscle; Irish 

Sea; Scotland; Europe; effects 

ABSTRACT: Autopsy on seabirds from the Firth of Clyde showed the presence of high levels 

of dieldrin (I) [60-57-1], as well as polychlorinated biphenyls. Autopsy on seabirds from the 

North Irish Sea (especially Uria aalge) showed the presence of high levels of polychlorinated 

biphenyls. Probably, organochlorine contamination was a contributory factor to the heavy 

mortality of these birds. 

Lock, J. W.; Thompson, D. R.; Furness, R. W.; and Bartle, J. A. 1992. Metal concentrations in 

seabirds of the New Zealand region. Environ. Pollut. 75(3):289-300. 

Rec #: 57 

KEYWORDS: New Zealand; age variations; bioaccumulation; toxicology; biomagnification; 

elimination; metals; Cd; Cu; Pb; Zn; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; liver; kidney; feather; 

bone; wandering albatross; Diomedea exulans; royal albatross; Diomedea epomophora; blackbrowed albatross; Diomedea melanophris; white-capped albatross; Diomedea cauta; Salvin's 

albatross; Diomedea cauta salvini; grey-headed albatross; Diomedea chrysostoma; Buller's 

albatross; Diomedea bulleri; light-mantled sooty albatross; Phoebetria palpebrata; flesh-footed 

shearwater; Puffinus carneipes; short-tailed shearwater; Puffinus tenuirostris; Hutton's 

shearwater; Puffinus huttoni; little shearwater; Puffinus assimilis; diving petrel; Pelecanoides 

urinatrix; South Georgian diving petrel; Pelecanoides georgicus; grey petrel; Procellaria 

cinerea; westland petrel; Procellaria westlandica; Kerguelen petrel; Pterodroma brevirostris; 

white-chinned petrel; Procellaria aequinoctialis; cape pigeon; Daption capense; Antarctic petrel; 

Thalassoica antarctica; southern giant petrel; Macronectes giganteus; northern giant petrel; 

Macronectes halli; fairy prion; Pachyptila turtur; fulmar prion; Pachyptila crassirostris; 

Antarctic prion; Pachyptila desolata; blue petrel; Halobaena caerulea; Pycroft's petrel; 

Pterodroma pycrofti; Cook's petrel; Pterodroma cookii; black-winged petrel; Pterodroma 

nigripennis; Chatham Island petrel; Pterodroma axillaris; mottled petrel; Pterodroma 

inexpectata; grey-faced petrel; Pterodroma macroptera; white-headed petrel; Pterodroma 

lessonii; grey-backed storm-petrel; Oceanites nereis; black-bellied storm-petrel; Fregetta 

tropica; yellow-eyed penguin; Megadyptes antipodes; blue penguin; Eudyptula minor; 

rockhopper penguin; Eudyptes chrysocome; Fiordland crested penguin; Eudyptes 

pachyrhynchus; erect-crested penguin; Eudyptes sclateri; red-tailed tropicbird; Phaethon 

rubricauda; white-tailed tropicbird; Phaethon lepturus; brown booby; Sula leucogaster; 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; Australasian gannet; Morus serrator; little shag; 

Phalacrocorax melanoleucos; Bounty Island shag; Leucocarbo ranfurlyi; king shag; Leucocarbo 

atriceps; blue shag; Stictocarbo punctatus steadi; spotted shag; Stictocarbo punctatus punctatus; 

long-tailed jaeger; Stercorarius longicaudus; great frigatebird; Fregata minor; brown skua; 

Catharacta lonnbergi; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius parasiticus; southern black-backed gull; 

Larus dominicanus; red-billed gull; Larus novaehollandiae; white-fronted tern; Sterna striata; 

sooty tern; Sterna fuscata; white-capped noddy; Anous tenuirostris; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of the heavy metals cadmium, copper, lead, zinc, mercury and, in 

some individuals, methyl mercury were determined in a range of tissues of 64 tropical, 

subtropical, subantarctic and antarctic seabird taxa mostly from the New Zealand region. 

Although apparently natural, levels of cadmium and mercury in some species greatly exceed 

those known to have toxic effects in some terrestrial birds. Copper and zinc levels exhibited less 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

142 

inter-species variation than the non-essential metals cadmium and mercury. Cadmium 

concentrations were highest in kidney tissues but uniformly low in feathers. Total mercury 

concentrations showed most inter-species variation. Mean methyl mercury levels in liver tissues 

of several large procellariiforms represented less than 5 % of the corresponding mean total 

mercury level. Lead concentrations were generally low or below the limits of detection, but 

elevated levels were measured in some coastal or scavenging species. In a significant number of 

species, mean concentrations of liver cadmium and mercury and kidney cadmium were greater in 

adults than in young birds. The reverse was true for copper. Mean zinc levels in liver did not 

differ between adults and young. High levels of cadmium in some species seem likely to be due 

to diet, whereas high levels of mercury probably reflect more closely the moult intervals which 

constrain the ability of birds to eliminate methyl mercury. 

Lorentsen, S-H. and Anker-Nilssen, T. 1993. Behaviour and oil vulnerability of fulmars 

Fulmarus glacialis during an oil spill experiment in the Norwegian Sea. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 

26(3):144-146. 

Rec #: 243 

KEYWORDS: oil; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Norway; Europe; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The behaviour and oil vulnerability of Fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis ) was studied 

when 30 t of crude oil was experimentally released at Haltenbanken, 150 km off the coast of 

Central Norway in July 1989. Evidence strongly suggests that the Fulmars deliberately avoided 

to settle on sea surface that was polluted with heavy oil. However, about 4 % of the Fulmars in 

the area were slightly oiled, probably because they had been attracted to surrounding blueshine 

areas by food remains thrown overboard from the research vessel. 

Lorenzen Angela; Moon, Thomas W.; Kennedy, Sean W.; and Fox, Glen A. 1999. Relationships 

between environmental organochlorine contaminant residues, plasma corticosterone 

concentrations, and intermediary metabolic enzyme activities in Great Lakes herring gull 

embryos. Environ. Health Perspect. 107(3):179-186. 

Rec #: 327 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; blood; liver; kidney; Great Lakes; North 

America; metabolism; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; TEQs; toxicology 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Experiments were conducted to survey and detect differences in plasma 

corticosterone concentrations and intermediary metabolic enzyme activities in herring gull 

(Larus argentatus) embryos environmentally exposed to organochlorine contaminants in ovo. 

Unincubated fertile herring gull eggs were collected from an Atlantic coast control site and 

various Great Lakes sites in 1997 and artificially incubated in the laboratory. Liver and/or kidney 

tissues from approximately half of the late-stage embryos were analyzed for the activities of 

various intermediary metabolic enzymes known to be regulated, at least in part, by 

corticosteroids. Basal plasma corticosterone concentrations were determined for the remaining 

embryos. Yolk sacs were collected from each embryo and a subset was analyzed for 

organochlorine contaminants. Regression analysis of individual yolk sac organochlorine residue 

concentrations, or 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents (TEQs), with individual basal 

plasma corticosterone concentrations indicated statistically significant inverse relationships for 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDDs/PCDFs), total 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

143 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), non-ortho PCBs, and TEQs. Similarly, inverse relationships 

were observed for the activities of two intermediary metabolic enzymes (phosphoenolpyruvate 

carboxykinase and malic enzyme) when regressed against PCDDs/PCDFs. Overall, these data 

suggest that current levels of organochlorine contamination may be affecting the hypothalamopituitary-adrenal axis and associated intermediary metabolic pathways in environmentally 

exposed herring gull embryos in the Great Lakes. 

Ludwig, James P.; Giesy, John P.; Summer, Cheryl L.; Bowerman, William; Aulerich, Richard; 

Bursian, Steven; Auman, Heidi J.; Jones, Paul D.; Williams, Lisa L.; Tillitt, Donald E.; and 

Gilbertson, Michael. 1993. A comparison of water quality criteria for the Great Lakes based on 

human and wildlife health. J. Great Lakes Res. 19(4):789-807. 

Rec #: 447 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; egg; Great Lakes; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; 

PCDDs; TEQs; toxicology; review; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Water quality criteria (WQC) can be derived in several ways. The usual 

techniques involve hazard and risk assessment procedures. For non-persistent, non-biomagnified 

compounds and elements, WQC are experimentally derived from their acute and chronic toxicity 

to aquatic organisms. For those persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons (PCHs) that are 

bioaccumulated and biomagnified, these traditional techniques have not been effective, partly 

because effects higher in the food web were not considered. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) 

are the bioaccumulative synthetic chemicals of primary toxicological significance to the Great 

Lakes biota which have caused widespread injury to wildlife. In the Laurentian Great Lakes, the 

primary emphasis of hazard assessments has been on the potential for adverse effects in humans 

who eat fish. The primary regulatory endpoint of traditional hazard and risk assessments 

underlying current WQC are the probabilities of additional cancers occurring in the human 

population. The analysis presented here indicates that this is not adequate to restore sensitive 

wildlife species that are highly exposed to PCBs, especially those that have suffered serious 

population declines. Because WQC are legal instruments, the methods of deriving WQC have 

large implications for remediation, litigation, and damage assessments. Here WQC are derived 

for six species based on the responses of wildlife in the field or produced by feeding fish to 

surrogate species, rather than projecting a potential of increased cancer rates in humans. If the 

most sensitive wildlife species are restored and protected for very sensitive reproductive 

endpoints, then all components of the ecosystem, including human health, should be more 

adequately protected. The management of Great Lakes wildlife requires an understanding of the 

injury and causal relationships to persistent toxic substances. 

Ludwig, James P.; Kurita-Matsuba, Hiroko; Auman, Heidi J.; Ludwig, Matthew E.; Summer, 

Cheryl L.; Giesy, John P.; Tillitt, Donald E.; and Jones, Paul D. 1996. Deformities, PCBs, and 

TCDD-equivalents in double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and Caspian terns 

(Hydroprogne caspia) of the upper Great Lakes 1986-1991: Testing a cause-effect hypothesis. J. 

Great Lakes Res. 22(2):172-197. 

Rec #: 169 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; TEQs; toxicology; EROD; reproductive 

success; effects; abnormalities; North America; Great Lakes; egg; double-crested cormorant; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

144 

Phalacrocorax auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia

ABSTRACT: Deformities have been reported in many species of colonial waterbirds from 

several localities on the Laurentian Great Lakes. The hypothesis that deformities were caused by 

either polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) or contaminants measured as 2,3,7,8-

tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents (TCDD-EQs) is tested in this review of available data 

on concentrations of contaminants in eggs and observed deformities in embryos and chicks of 

double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) 

between 1986 and 1991. Hatched chicks, live and dead eggs retrieved from 37 colonies in the 

upper Great Lakes were assessed for gross anatomical deformities. Rates of embryo death from 

seven regions of the upper Great Lakes were measured annually between 1986-1991. Half the 

embryos found dead in eggs were deformed. Nineteen types of abnormalities or deformities were 

observed. Subcutaneous edema in cormorants and gastroschisis in terns were the most common 

abnormalities in live or dead eggs. One of ten crossed-billed cormorant embryos survived to 

hatch. No bill-deformed terns hatched, although tern embryos had a greater rate of crossed-bills 

than cormorants. The suite of deformities and abnormalities found was similar to that produced 

in chickens by exposure to planar polychlorinated biphenyl (pPCB) and dioxin congeners. 

Hatching and deformity rates were correlated with concentrations of pPCBs and TCDD-EQs. 

Planar PCB congeners that contributed most of the TCDD-EQs were present at concentrations 

sufficient to cause the observed effects. TCDD-EQs measured by H4IIE rat hepatoma cell 7-

ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) bioassay were highly correlated with deformity rates 

observed in cormorant chicks, live and dead eggs, and egg death rates. Similar correlations of 

TCDD-EQs with deformity rates were found in hatched tern chicks, dead eggs, and egg death 

rates, but not in live eggs. TCDD-EQs were more highly correlated to deformity and embryo 

death rates than total PCBs. The weight of evidence and these data are sufficient to reject the null 

hypothesis that there is no causal relationship between the incidence of deformities in cormorants 

and terns and exposure to planar halogenated compounds measured as TCDD-EQs or total PCBs 

in the Great Lakes. 

MacDonald, C. R.; Norstrom, R. J.; and Turle, R. 1992. Application of pattern recognition 

techniques to assessment of biomagnification and sources of polychlorinated multicomponent 

pollutants, such as PCBs, PCDDs and PCDFs. Chemosphere. 25(1-2):129-134. 

Rec #: 232 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; mirex; dieldrin; chlordanes; egg; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; North America; Great Lakes; temporal trends; biomagnification 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Principal component analysis of PCB congeners and organochlorines in herring 

gull eggs from four of the Great Lakes reveals that, with the exception of Lake Erie, the two 

colonies within each lake contain distinctive patterns which did not change significantly between 

1983 and 1990. Lake Ontario colonies were modelled by high percentages of mirex and 

photomirex, while high proportions of dieldrin, heptachlor epoxide and oxychlordane grouped 

the colonies in lakes Huron and Superior. The Middle Island colony in the western end of Lake 

Erie showed high relative amounts of the higher chlorinated PCB congeners, due to continuing 

contamination from the Detroit River, or resuspension of contaminated sediments. PCDD/F 

patterns in the same colonies were dominated by 1,2,3,6,7,8 HxCDD and 1,2,3,7,8 PeCDD in 

lakes Erie, Huron and Superior while Lake Ontario patterns were dominated by 2,3,7,8 TCDD. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

145 

Lake trout and walleye in the same lakes showed high levels of 2,3,7,8 TCDF which does not 

accumulate in herring gulls. 

Malcolm, H. M.; Osborn, D.; Wright, J.; Wienburg, C. L.; and Sparks, T. H. 2003. 

Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener concentrations in seabirds found dead in mortality 

incidents around the British coast. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 45(1):136-147. 

Rec #: 441 

KEYWORDS: common murre; Uria aalge; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; razorbill; Alca torda; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; gannet; Sula bassana; herring gull; Larus argentatus; liver; 

organochlorines; PCBs; Great Britain; Europe; toxicology; TEQs; biomagnification; temporal 

trends; spatial variations; effects 

ABSTRACT: Livers from 121 birds killed in mortality incidents in U.K. coastal waters between 

1991 and 1996 were analyzed for 16 PCB congeners (IUPAC numbers 8, 18, 28, 31, 52, 77, 101, 

118, 126, 128, 138, 149, 153, 169, 170, and 180). Species analyzed were guillemot (Uria aalge), 

shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis), kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla), puffin (Fratercula arctica), 

razorbill (Alca torda), fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis), gannet (Sula bassana), and herring gull 

(Larus argentatus). This is the first report of PCBs in U.K. seabird tissues to be presented since 

1983. Mean concentrations of total PCBs ranged from 0.47-15.8 mg/kg WW, similar to 

concentrations reported for North Sea birds during the 1970s and 1980s and lower than those 

reported for the same species in the Irish Sea during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The 

congeners generally present in the highest concentrations were (in decreasing order) 153, 138, 

180, 118, and 170. Despite the birds having similar diets, both inter- and intraspecies differences 

in PCB congener profile were found. In guillemots from several sites on the east coast, the 

dominant congener was 138, compared to guillemots from the south coast, which had the more 

typical congener pattern found in seabirds. Some of the differences in total PCB values could be 

due to different causes of death, with a subsequent effect on body lipid levels. 

Martin, Jonathan W.; Smithwick, Marla M.; Braune, Birgit M.; Hoekstra, Paul F.; Muir, Derek 

C. G.; and Mabury, Scott A. 2004. Identification of long-chain perfluorinated acids in biota from 

the Canadian Arctic. Environ. Sci. Technol. 38(2):373-380. 

Rec #: 475 

KEYWORDS: PFOS; perfluorinated acids; Nunavut; Yukon; Northwest Territories; Quebec; 

Canada; USA; North America; common loon; Gavia immer; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; liver; biomagnification; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Recently it was discovered that humans and animals from urban and remote 

global locations contained a novel class of persistent fluorinated pollutants, the most pervasive of 

which was perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Lower concentrations of perfluorooctanoate, 

perfluorohexane sulfonate, and heptadecafluorooctane sulfonamide were also detected in various 

samples. Although longer perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCA) are used in industry and have 

been detected in fish following a spill of aqueous film forming foam, no studies have been 

conducted to examine the widespread occurrence of long-chain PFCA, e.g., CF3(CF2)xCOO-, 

where x >6. To preliminarily assess fluorinated pollutants, including PFCA, in the Canadian 

Arctic, polar bears, ringed seals, arctic fox, mink, common loons, northern fulmars, black 

guillemots, and fish were collected at various locations in the circumpolar region. PFOS was the 

major pollutant detected in most samples; in polar bear liver, it was the most prominent 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

146 

organohalogen (mean PFOS = 3.1 μg/g wet weight) vs. individual polychlorinated biphenyl 

congeners, chlordane, or hexachlorocyclohexane-related chemicals in fat. Using 2 independent 

mass spectral methods, it was confirmed that all samples also contained ng/g concentrations of a 

homologous series of PFCA, ranging in length from 9 to 15 carbons. Sum concentrations of 

PFCA (ΣPFCA) were lower than total PFOS equivalents (ΣPFOS) in all samples except mink. 

In mink, perfluorononanoate (PFNA) concentrations exceeded PFOS concentrations, indicating 

PFNA and other PFCA should be considered in future risk assessments. Mammals feeding at 

higher trophic levels had greater PFOS and PFCA concentrations than mammals feeding at lower 

trophic positions. Generally, odd-length PFCA exceeded the concentration of even-length 

PFCA; concentrations decreased with increasing chain length in mammals. PFOS and PFCA 

concentrations were much lower for animals living in the Canadian Arctic than for the same 

species living in mid-latitude regions of the USA. Future studies should continue to monitor all 

fluorinated pollutants and examine absolute and relative toxicities for this novel suite of PFCA. 

Martin, Pamela A.; Weseloh, D. Vaughn; Bishop, Christine A.; Legierse, Karin; Braune, Birgit; 

and Norstrom, Ross J. 1995. Organochlorine contaminants in avian wildlife of Severn Sound. 

Water Qual. Res. J. Canada. 30(4):693-711. 

Rec #: 229 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; egg; muscle; Canada; Great Lakes; North America; 

organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; HCHs; benzenes; HCB; OCS; PCBs; PCDFs; 

PCDDs; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; common tern; Sterna 

hirundo; red-winged blackbird; Agelaius phoeniceus; tree swallow; Tachycineta bicolor; lesser 

scaup; Aythya affinis; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine contaminants were measured in pooled egg samples of colonial 

waterbirds, red-winged blackbirds and tree swallows breeding in or near Severn Sound, Lake 

Huron, an area designated by the International Joint Commission as an Area of Concern, during 

1991. Breast muscle samples of staging waterfowl were also collected the preceding autumn. 

PCBs, DDE and mirex were the most prevalent organochlorine contaminants present in eggs. 

Generally, the following interspecific gradient in contaminant levels in bird eggs was found: 

herring gulls = Caspian terns > common terns > tree swallows > blackbirds. 

Matheson, R. A. F.; Hamilton, E. A.; Trites, A.; and Whitehead, D. 1980. Chlorinated benzenes 

in herring gull and double-crested cormorant eggs from three locations in the Maritime 

Provinces. Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada: Environmental Protection Service, Atlantic Region. 

EPS-5-AR-80-1. 37 pp. 

Rec #: 407 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCB; benzenes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; egg; Nova Scotia; New Brunswick; Canada; North America; 

spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of hexachlorobenzene [118-74-1] in extracts from eggs of herring 

gulls (Larus argentatus) and double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) were higher 

(8.3-20 ng/g) than those of other chlorinated benzene isomers. 1,2,3,5-Tetrachlorobenzene 

[634-90-2], 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene [634-66-2], and pentachlorobenzene [608-93-5] were 

found in most of the samples, whereas 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene [120-82-1] and 1,2,3-

trichlorobenzene [87-61-6] were detected less frequently. The egg samples from the maritime 

provinces had less chlorinated benzenes than similar samples from Lake Ontario. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

147 

Meadows, J. C.; Tillitt, D. E.; Schwartz, T. R.; Schroeder, D. J.; Echols, K. R.; Gale, R. W.; 

Powell, D. C.; and Bursian, S. J. 1996. Organochlorine contaminants in double-crested 

Cormorants from Green Bay, WI: I. Large-scale extraction and isolation from eggs using semipermeable membrane dialysis. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 31(2):218-224. 

Rec #: 24 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; PCBs; WI; USA; Great Lakes; North America; doublecrested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus

ABSTRACT: A 41.3-kg sample of double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) egg 

contents was extracted, yielding over 2 L of egg lipid. The double-crested cormorant (DCC) egg 

extract, after clean-up and concentration, was intended or use in egg injection studies to 

determine the embryotoxicity of the organic contaminants found within the eggs. Large-scale 

dialysis was used as a preliminary treatment to separate the extracted contaminants from the coextracted sample lipids. The lipid was dialyzed in 80×5 cm semi-permeable membrane devices 

(SPMDs) in 50-ml aliquants. After the removal of 87 g of cholesterol by freeze-fractionation, the 

remaining lipid carryover (56 g) was removed by 100 routine gel permeation chromatography 

(GPC) operations. A 41,293-g sample was thus extracted and purified to the extent that it could 

easily be placed at a volume of 5 ml, the volume calculated to be necessary for the egg injection 

study. Analyses were performed comparing contaminant concentrations in the final purified 

extract to those present in the original egg material, in the extract after dialysis and cholesterol 

removal, and in the excluded materials. Recoveries of organochlorine pesticides through dialysis 

and cholesterol ranged from 96 % to 135 %. Total polychlorinated biphenyls in the final extract 

were 96 % of those measured in the original egg material. Analysis of excluded lipid and 

cholesterol indicated that 92 % of the polychlorinated dibenzo-dioxins and-furans were separated 

into the final extract. 

Medvedev, Nikolai and Markova, Lubov. 1995. Residues of chlorinated pesticides in the eggs of 

Karelian birds, 1989-90. Environ. Pollut. 87(1):65-70. 

Rec #: 373 

KEYWORDS: egg; Russia; Asia; common gull; Larus canus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; crow; Corvus cornix; 

organochlorines; DDTs; HCHs; reproductive success; effects; eggshell thickness 

ABSTRACT: Eggs (n = 52) of 4 aquatic bird species (Larus canus, L. argentatus, L. ridibundus, 

Sterna hirundo) and crow (Corvus cornix), collected in Southern Karelia in 1989 and 1990, 

contained DDE and lindane. The highest mean levels of these pollutants were in herring gull and 

common tern eggs; lowest mean levels of pesticides were in crow eggs. In all eggs, DDE 

concentrations were lower than the critical threshold and it seems, cannot influence reproductive 

success. 

Mehlum, Fridtjof and Daelemans, F. F. 1995. PCBs in Arctic seabirds from the Svalbard Region. 

Sci. Total Environ. 160/161:441-446. 

Rec #: 77 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; liver; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common eider; Somateria mollissima; thickbilled murre; Uria lomvia; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Previous studies have indicated the presence of high levels of organochlorines, 

especially PCBs, in some species of arctic seabirds. The glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) in 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

148 

particular has shown high levels of organochlorine contamination. We present data on total PCB 

and isomer specific PCBs in liver samples from four species of seabirds from the Svalbard 

region. Two of the species were sampled both in the vicinity of the mining town Longyearbyen, 

where PCBs have been used in the past, and in the remote region of Nordaustlandetect We 

compared the levels obtained from these two localities in order to test for any indication of local 

contamination in the Longyearbyen area. No significant difference was found in total hepatic 

PCB between glaucous gulls collected at Longyearbyen and those collected at Nordaustlandet 

(grand mean ± S.D.: 15.59 ± 21.53 μg/g wet weight; n = 22). Similarly, no difference was found 

in black guillemots (Cepphus grylle) from these two regions (grand mean ± S.D.: 0.14 ± 0.05 

μg/g wet weight; n = 20). However, in both species, we found significantly higher levels of 

higher chlorinated biphenyls in the Longyearbyen samples, and higher levels of lower 

chlorinated biphenyls in the samples from Nordaustlandetect. This finding indicates that the 

birds sampled at the two localities might have been contaminated by different sources. Local 

contamination in the Longyearbyen area is one of several possible explanations for this 

difference. Total PCB levels in common eiders (Somateria mollissima) and Brünnich's 

guillemots (Uria lomvia) were in the same order of magnitude as those for the black guillemots 

(mean ± S.D.: 0.04 ± 0.04 μg/g; n = 11 and 0.08 ± 0.04 μg/g; n = 8, respectively). 

Miller, D. S.; Butler, R. G.; Trivelpiece, W. Z.; Janes-Butler, S.; Green, S.; Peakall, B.; Lambert, 

G.; and Peakall, D. B. 1980. Crude oil ingestion by seabirds: Possible metabolic and 

reproductive effects. Bull. Mt. Desert Isl. Biol. Lab. 20:137-138. 

Rec #: 126 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; toxicology; metabolism; reproductive success; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: The authors present here the results of initial experiments concerned with two 

problems related to oil toxicity in birds (Larus argentatus). First, does ingested oil affect 

metabolism? Second, does oral dosing of adult seabirds affect the growth and survival of their 

young? 

Miller, D. S.; Hallett, D. J.; and Peakall, D. B. 1982. Which components of crude oil are toxic to 

young seabirds? Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 1(1):39-44. 

Rec #: 150 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; toxicology; dosing study; herring gull; Larus argentatus

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Studies from this laboratory have focused on sublethal physiological effects of 

small amounts of ingested crude oil in young herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Clearly, the most 

striking effect of certain oils in gulls is the marked reduction in rates of weight gain found after 

administration of a single 0.2-1 ml oral dose. SLC-76 was split on an alumina column into 

aliphatic and aromatic fractions; only the aromatic fraction reduced gull rates of weight gain. 

Using a Prudhoe Bay crude (as toxic to gulls as SLC-76), the aromatic fraction was split into two 

subfractions on Sephadex LH-20. Analyses showed that one subfraction contained those 

aromatics with three or less rings and the other contained those with four or more rings. Only the 

second fraction (high molecular weight aromatics) reduced gull weight gain. The findings clearly 

show that oil composition is a major determinant of oral toxicity to young seabirds, and that the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

149 

higher molecular weight aromatics are most effective in reducing gull weight gain. 

Miller, David S.; Kinter, William B.; and Peakall, David B. 1979. Effects of crude oil ingestion 

on immature Pekin ducks (Anas platyrhynchos) and herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Animals as 

Monitors of Environmental Pollutants. Symposium on Pathobiology of Environmental 

Pollutants: Animal Models and Wildlife as Monitors, University of Connecticut, 1977. 27-40. 

Rec #: 134 

KEYWORDS: effects; oil; dosing study; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A single small oral dose of either Kuwait or South Louisiana crude oil was 

administered to Pekin ducks and herring gull chicks. Crude oil dosing caused significant 

osmoregulatory impairment in seawater-stressed ducks. In seawater-adapted gulls 

osmoregulation was only slightly impaired by crude oil; however, growth was substantially 

inhibited. These findings suggest that crude oil causes sublethal effects which might impair a 

bird's ability to survive in a coastal or marine environment. 

Miller, David S.; Kinter, William B.; Peakall, David B.; and Risebrough, Robert W. 1976. DDE 

feeding and plasma osmoregulation in ducks, guillemots, and puffins. Am. J. Physiol. 

231(2):370-376. 

Rec #: 256 

KEYWORDS: kidney; liver; blood; gland; North America; ME; USA; Newfoundland; Canada; 

organochlorines; DDTs; mallard; white Pekin ducks; Anas platyrhynchos; black guillemot; 

Cepphus grylle; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; dosing study; osmoregulation; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: To assess the possibility that organochlorine pesticide disruption of 

osmoregulation is responsible for recent large kills of young seabirds, we have studied the effects 

of DDE feeding (10-250 ppm) on plasma osmoregulation and nasal gland function in the 

following species: mallard and white Pekin ducks (both Anas platyrhynchos), black guillemot 

(Cepphus grylle), and Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica). Other investigators have recently 

reported that dietary DDE (10-1,000 ppm) inhibits nasal gland secretion in freshwatermaintained mallards; our initial experiments with white Pekins showed no such inhibition during 

either freshwater or seawater maintenance. Moreover, DDE had minimal effects on plasma 

electrolyte levels and total nasal gland Na-K-ATPase activities in all species studied. Liver DDE 

levels in experimental ducks and guillemots were comparable to those reported for seabirds 

found dead after kills; levels in starved experimental puffins were much higher. Thus DDE at 

environmental levels does not affect osmoregulation or nasal gland Na-K-ATPase either in ducks 

or in two species of oceanic birds. 

Miller, David S.; Peakall, David B.; and Kinter, William B. 1978. Ingestion of crude oil: 

Sublethal effects in herring gull chicks. Science. 199(4326):315-317. 

Rec #: 128 

KEYWORDS: effects; oil; herring gull; Larus argentatus; dosing study; toxicology 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A single small oral dose of Kuwait or South Louisiana crude oil caused cessation 

of growth, osmoregulatory impairment, and hypertrophy of hepatic, adrenal, and nasal gland 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

150 

tissue in herring gull (Larus argentatus) chicks living in a simulated marine environment. These 

findings suggest that ingesting crude oil causes multiple sublethal effects that might impair a 

bird's ability to survive at sea. 

Moisey, John; Fisk, Aaron T.; Hobson, Keith A.; and Norstrom, Ross J. 2001. 

Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers and chiral signatures of α-HCH in the Arctic marine 

food web of the Northwater Polynya. Environ. Sci. Technol. 35:1920-1927. 

Rec #: 353 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; Northwater Polynya; Greenland; Canada; North 

America; Atlantic Ocean; biomagnification; fat; little auk; Alle alle; thick-billed murre; Uria 

lomvia; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; 

Pagophila eburnea; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) isomers (α, β, andγ) and 

enantiomer fractions (EFs) of α-HCH were determined in the Northwater Polynya Arctic marine 

food web. Relative food web structure was established using trophic level models based on 

organic δ15N values. Concentrations of HCH in the samples collected, including water, sediment, 

benthic invertebrates (four species), pelagic zooplankton (six species), Arctic cod, seabirds 

(seven species), and ringed seal, were in the range previously reported for the Canadian Arctic. 

The relative proportion of the HCH isomers varied across the food web and appeared to be 

related to the biotransformation capacity of each species. For invertebrates and fish the 

biomagnification factors (BMFs) of the three isomers were >1 and the proportion of each isomer 

and the EFs of α-HCH were similar to water, suggesting minimal biotransformation. Seabirds 

appear to readily metabolize γ- and α-HCH based on low BMFs for these isomers, high 

proportions of β-HCH (62- 96 %), and high EFs (0.65-0.97) for α-HCH. The α- and β-HCH 

isomers appear to be recalcitrant in ringed seals based on BMFs >1 and near racemic EFs for αHCH. The β isomer appears to be recalcitrant in all species examined and had an overall food 

web magnification factor of 3.9. EFs of α-HCH and the proportion of β-HCH in Σ-HCH in the 

food web were highly correlated (r2

 = 0.92) suggesting that EFs were a good indicator of a 

species capability to biotransform α-HCH. 

Moksnes, Milica T. and Norheim, Gunnar. 1986. Levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons and 

compositions of PCB in herring gull Larus argentatus eggs collected in Norway in 1969 

compared to 1979 - 81. Environ. Pollut. (B. Chem. Phys.). 11(2):109-116. 

Rec #: 98 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; OCS; HCB; egg; Norway; Europe; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Eggs from herring gull Larus argentatus were collected at seven different 

locations along the Norwegian coast in 1969 and again in 1979-81. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB), 

octachlorostyrene (OCS), DDE, PCB and decachlorobiphenyl (DCB) were determined in each of 

the 200 eggs. Mean levels of HCB in 1969 and 1979-81 were 0 multiplied by 19 and 0 multiplied 

by 12 μg g-1 wet weight, respectively. When excluding the results from Telemark, an area with 

local contamination with HCB, OCS, and DCB, there were no statistical differences in HCB 

levels between the two sampling periods. OCS and DCB were only detected in eggs from 

Telemark. Significant decreases in DDE levels and DDE/PCB ratios but not in PCB levels were 

observed between 1969 and 1979-81. Only for the most persistent of the PCB isomers recorded 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

151 

was there a small increase in the relative amount from 1969 to 1979-81. 

Monteiro, L. R. and Furness, R. W. 1995. Seabirds as monitors of mercury in the marine 

environment. Water Air Soil Pollut. 80(1-4):851-870. 

Rec #: 165 

KEYWORDS: review; metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; feather; bioaccumulation; 

effects; toxicology; great white egret; Egretta alba; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; Cory's shearwater; Calonectris diomedea; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; great skua; Catharacta skua; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; roseate tern; Sterna 

dougallii; common murre; Uria aalge; red-billed gull; Larus novaehollandiae; body burden; 

feather; liver; carcass; feces; egg; muscle; kidney; blood; spatial variations; temporal trends; 

Great Britain; Ireland; Germany; North Sea; Mediterranean Sea; Baltic Sea; Europe; Azores; 

Atlantic Ocean 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The oceans play a major role in global cycling of mercury and widespread 

contamination of marine ecosystems has been demonstrated in recent years. Monitoring mercury 

in the marine environment is a priority and biomonitoring has featured prominently in this 

respect. Seabirds, as top predators, present high mercury levels due to food chain amplification 

and thus will reflect slight variations in environmental mercury and its hazards to humans better 

than do most invertebrates and cold blood vertebrates. There is experimental evidence that levels 

of mercury in seabirds show a dose-response relationship, so that increased contamination of the 

environment causes a corresponding increase in the level in birds. This coupled with current 

knowledge on the dynamics of mercury in birds gives a good basis for the use of seabird as 

monitors of mercury. Internal tissues, blood, eggs, feathers and chicks have been used as 

monitoring units. Feathers are the most attractive amongst them. They are both chemically and 

physically stable, accumulate higher mercury levels than other tissues and their sampling is nondestructive. However, it is essential to sample a consistent feather area from all birds to minimise 

the effects of moult and body feathers are the most adequate. Feathers from birds in museum 

collections offer a great potential for the study of synoptic geographical and historical of changes 

in mercury levels on a global scale with large sample sizes. For example, studies with time series 

of feather samples from seabirds provide evidence of a 3-fold increase of mercury contamination 

in the marine ecosystem of North-eastern Atlantic over the last 100 years and little increase in 

mercury contamination in the Southern hemisphere during the same period. 

Moore, N. W. and Tatton, J. O. G. 1965. Organochlorine insecticide residues in eggs of the sea 

birds. Nature. 207(4992):42-43. 

Rec #: 528 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; HCHs; chlordanes; egg; North Sea; Ireland; 

Europe; biomagnification; effects; reproductive success; little tern; Sterna albifrons; shelduck; 

Tadorna tadorna; oystercatcher; Haematopus ostralegus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; 

sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis; black-headed gull; Larus ridibundus; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; 

common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo

ABSTRACT: Eggs of 13 species of sea birds were collected at random on the North Sea Coast 

and from Grand Saltee Island. Dieldrin and p,p'-DDE were detected in all the eggs. Residues of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

152 

p,p'-DDT and (or) its metabolite, p,p'-TDE, were found in 77 % of the eggs and BHC, usually 

the β-isomer, and heptachlor epoxide were found in 52 % of the eggs. Ten fish and 8 mollusks 

were collected at Scolt Head. All except one cockle contained insecticide residues. Results 

show small amounts of organochlorine insecticides to be widely distributed in British waters. 

There is some evidence that the eggs of birds which feed on large fish contain higher amounts of 

residues than those which feed on small fish or invertebrates. The quantities of residues found 

should not affect the hatching of eggs. There was a slight decrease in contamination from 1963 

to 1964. The eggs of sea birds which do not range widely may be a useful indicator for detecting 

insecticidal contamination. 

Mora, M. A. and Anderson, D. W. 1995. Selenium, boron, and heavy metals in birds from the 

Mexicali Valley, Baja California, Mexico. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 54(2):198-206. 

Rec #: 403 

KEYWORDS: Baja; Mexico; North America; metals; Se; B; Cd; Zn; Co; Cr; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; mourning dove; Zenaida macroura; cattle egret; Bubulcus 

ibis; great-tailed grackle; Quiscalus mexicanus; red-winged blackbird; Agelaius phoeniceus; 

seasonal variations; liver; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Analysis of samples from bird on the Mexicali Valley, northeastern Baja 

California, Mexico, showed that there were no significant differences in the concentrations of 

trace elements between summer and winter for most species of birds, except for mourning doves, 

which had significantly higher concentrations of Cr, Cu, and Zn in summer than in winter. 

Selenium concentrations were significantly higher in double-crested cormorants and lower in 

mourning doves than in other species. Zn levels did not differ significantly; Cd was greater in 

red-winged blackbirds than in other species. Copper levels were lower in cattle egrets than in 

other species, which had similar concentrations. Cr was significantly higher in mourning dives 

and red-winged blackbirds, and boron was significantly higher in mourning doves than in any 

other species. High concentrations of boron may result from brine discharges from the Cerro 

Prieto geothermal energy plant. The results for fish suggest increased exposure to Se, B, and Zn. 

The concentrations of Zn, Cd, Cu, and Cr in livers seemed well below threshold for biological 

effects in birds. 

Mora, Miguel A. and Anderson, Daniel W. 1991. Seasonal and geographical variation of 

organochlorine residues in birds from Northwest Mexico. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 

21(4):541-548. 

Rec #: 415 

KEYWORDS: Mexico; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; HCB; 

chlordanes; dieldrin; endrin; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; olivaceous 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax olivaceus; mourning dove; Zenaida macroura; cattle egret; Bubulcus 

ibis; great-tailed grackle; Quiscalus mexicanus; red-winged blackbird; Agelaius phoeniceus; 

white-winged dove; Zenaida asiatica; carcass; seasonal variations; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Eight species of birds (129 individuals) were collected from three agricultural 

areas with long histories of pesticide use in northwestern Mexico. Plucked carcasses were 

analyzed for organochlorine (OC) pesticides and polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs). DDE was found 

in all of the samples and at higher levels than other OCs. Mean (geometric) DDE concentrations 

varied from 0.04 (microgram/g) ppm in mourning doves (Zenaida macroura) to 5.05 ppm in 

double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus). Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) was 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

153 

detected in 95 % of the samples, but at lower levels than DDE. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) 

residues were detected more frequently in birds from Mexicali (62 %, p less than 0.05) than in 

those from Yaqui and Culiacan. HCH and HCB concentrations were significantly higher in birds 

from Mexicali during the winter than in the summer (p less than 0.05), indicating accumulation 

of these compounds during that period. Other OCs such as DDT, DDD, dieldrin, oxychlordane, 

heptachlor epoxide, endosulfan, and endrin were found at lower levels and less frequently. PCBs 

(quantitated as Aroclor 1260) were found mostly in cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis) and cormorants 

at the three locations. Overall, concentrations of OCs were higher for Mexicali than for Yaqui 

and Culiacan (p less than 0.01). In a few cases, DDE levels were above those that might 

adversely affect birds. 

Moriarty, F.; Bell, A. A.; and Hanson, H. 1986. Does p,p'-DDE thin eggshells? Environ. Pollut. 

(A Ecol. Biol.). 40(3):257-286. 

Rec #: 394 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; eggshell thickness; egg; gannet; Sula bassana; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; grey heron; Ardea cinerea; Great Britain; Europe; effects 

ABSTRACT: Data on egg size (measured by maximum length), shape (measured by the ratio of 

maximum breadth to maximum length), shell thickness (measured indirectly by Ratcliffe's index, 

I), and p,p'-DDE (I) [72-55-9] content (log μg/g fresh weight) were examined in samples of eggs 

taken from 3 species: 2 samples from the gannet Sula bassana, 3 samples from the shag 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis, and 6 samples from the heron Ardea cinerea. The value of I is 

virtually unaffected by changes of egg size but is affected by egg shape, and this variable bias in 

Ratcliffe's index did in some instances materially affect the conclusions to be drawn from the 

data. A revised index (J), derived from this prolate spheroid, was therefore developed. The 

value of J is virtually unaffected by changes of egg size and shape, and yields a much more 

accurate estimate of the product of the mean shell diameter and thickness. The conventional 

negative linear regression of Ratcliffe's index on p,p'-DDE content occurred in many, but not all, 

of the egg samples that had at least a 10-fold range of p,p'-DDE concentrations. Two other 

samples both contained 2 eggs with p,p'-DDE concentrations of not >0.1 μg/g fresh weight The 

shell index I increased, or at least did not decrease, until the p,p'-DDE content exceeded 

approximately 0.1-0.2 μg/g. Thus a curvilinear relations with a maximum turning point is 

probably a common physiological response to pollutants. 

Muir, D.; Braune, B.; DeMarch, B.; Norstrom, R.; Wagemann, R.; Lockhart, L.; Hargrave, B.; 

Bright, D.; Addison, R.; Payne, J.; and Reimer, K. 1999. Spatial and temporal trends and effects 

of contaminants in the Canadian Arctic marine ecosystem: A review. Sci. Total Environ. 230:83-

144. 

Rec #: 307 

KEYWORDS: review; Canada; North America; organochlorines; benzenes; HCHs; chlordanes; 

DDTs; dieldrin; PCBs; toxaphene; metals; Hg; Pb; Cd; Se; temporal trends; thick-billed murre; 

Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 

black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; egg; carcass; spatial variations; effects; 

biomagnification; gender differences; age variations; bioaccumulation; toxicology; cytochrome 

P450; EROD; CYP1A; metallothionein 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

154 

ABSTRACT: Recent studies have added substantially to our knowledge of spatial and temporal 

trends of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metals in the Canadian Arctic marine 

ecosystem. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge of contaminants in marine biota in 

the Canadian Arctic and where possible, discusses biological effects. The geographic coverage of 

information on contaminants such as persistent organochlorines (OCs) (PCBs, DDT- and 

chlordane-related compounds, hexachlorocyclohexanes, toxaphene) and heavy metals (mercury, 

selenium, cadmium, lead) in tissues of marine mammal and sea birds is relatively complete. All 

major beluga, ringed seal and polar bear stocks along with several major sea bird colonies have 

been sampled and analysed for OC and heavy metal contaminants. Studies on contaminants in 

walrus are limited to Foxe Basin and northern Québec stocks, while migratory harp seals have 

only been studied recently at one location. Contaminant measurements in bearded seal, harbour 

seal, bowhead whale and killer whale tissues from the Canadian Arctic are very limited or nonexistent. Many of the temporal trend data for contaminants in Canadian Arctic biota are 

confounded by changes in analytical methodology, as well as by variability due to age/size, or to 

dietary and population shifts. Despite this, studies of OCs in ringed seal blubber at Holman 

Island and in sea birds at Prince Leopold Island in Lancaster Sound show declining 

concentrations of PCBs and DDT-related compounds from the 1970s to 1980s then a leveling off 

during the 1980s and early 1990s. For other OCs, such as chlordane, HCH and toxaphene, 

limited data for the 1980s to early 1990s suggests few significant declines in concentrations in 

marine mammals or sea birds. Temporal trend studies of heavy metals in ringed seals and beluga 

found higher mean concentrations of mercury in more recent (1993/1994) samples than in earlier 

collections (1981-1984 in eastern Arctic, 1972-1973 in western Arctic) for both species. Rates of 

accumulation of mercury are also higher in present day animals than 10Ż20 years ago. Cadmium 

concentrations in the same animals (eastern Arctic only) showed no change over a 10-year 

period. No temporal trend data are available for metals in sea birds or polar bears. There have 

been major advances in knowledge of specific biomarkers in Canadian Arctic biota over the past 

few years. The species with the most significant risk of exposure to PCBs and OC pesticides may 

be the polar bear which, based on comparison with EROD activity in other marine mammals 

(beluga, ringed seal), appears to have elevated CYP1A-mediated activity. The MFO enzyme data 

for polar bear, beluga and seals suggest that even the relatively low levels of contaminants 

present in Arctic animals may not be without biological effects, especially during years of poor 

feeding. 

Murphy, Stephen M.; Day, Robert H.; Wiens, John A.; and Parker, Keith R. 1997. Effects of the 

Exxon Valdez oil spill on birds: Comparisons of pre- and post-spill surveys in Prince William 

Sound, Alaska. Condor. 99(2):299-313. 

Rec #: 246 

KEYWORDS: oil; AK; USA; North America; effects; red-necked grebe; Podiceps grisegena; 

pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; harlequin duck; Histrionicus histrionicus; common 

merganser; Mergus merganser; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; black oystercatcher; 

Haematopus bachmani; Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; common gull; Larus canus; 

glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; pigeon 

guillemot; Cepphus columba; reproductive success 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: We used data from pre- and post-spill surveys to assess the effects of the Exxon 

Valdez oil spill on the abundance and distribution of birds in Prince William Sound, Alaska. We 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

155 

conducted post-spill surveys during mid-summer (1989-1991) in 10 bays that had been surveyed 

prior to the spill (1984-1985) and that had experienced different levels of initial oiling from the 

spill (unoiled to heavily oiled). We evaluated whether there were changes in overall abundance 

across all bays between the pre-spill and post-spill sampling periods, and changes in abundance 

in unoiled/lightly oiled bays versus moderately/heavily oiled bays that would suggest oiling 

impacts. Of 12 taxa examined for changes in overall abundance, 7 showed no significant change, 

2 (Bald Eagle and Glaucous-winged Gull) increased in abundance, and 3 (Red-necked Grebe, 

Pelagic Cormorant, and Pigeon Guillemot) decreased in abundance during all three post-spill 

years. Of the 11 taxa examined for differences in use of oiled versus unoiled habitats, 7 showed 

no significant response, 1 (Black-legged Kittiwake) exhibited a positive response to oiling, and 3 

(Pelagic Cormorant, Black Oystercatcher, and Pigeon Guillemot) exhibited negative responses to 

initial oiling. We conclude that the impacts of this oil spill on abundance and distribution of birds 

were most evident in 1989, the year of the spill, and were most pronounced for Pigeon 

Guillemots. By 1991, signs of recovery were evident for all taxa that showed initial oiling 

impacts. 

Murvoll, K. M.; Skaare, J. U.; Nilssen, V. H.; Bech, C.; Ostnes, J. E.; and Jenssen, B. M. 1999. 

Yolk PCB and plasma retinol concentrations in shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) hatchlings. 

Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 36(3):308-315. 

Rec #: 266 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Europe; organochlorines; PCBs; toxicology; TEQs; vitamin A; retinol; 

blood; egg; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis

ABSTRACT: To evaluate the possibilities of applying plasma retinol as a biomarker of response 

in seabirds exposed to chronic low levels of organochlorines, the relationship between yolk 

content of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and plasma retinol levels were studied in newly 

hatched shag chicks (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) from the coast of central Norway. The mean 

concentration of 29 PCB-congeners (ΣPCB) in the yolk sac was 1.22 microgram/g ww (wet 

weight basis) (SD = 0.57, n = 10), or 17.99 ng/g lw (lipid weight basis) (SD = 6.26, n = 10). 

Expressed as TCDD-equivalents (ΣTEQ), the exposure in the yolk sac was 43.9 pg/g ww (SD = 

19.5, n = 10), or 637.1 pg/g lw (SD = 240.8, n = 10), considerably lower than the levels that have 

been associated with clear-cut lethal and sublethal effects such as egg mortality, hatchability, or 

live deformity in Phalacrocoracidae species. There were significant negative correlations 

between ΣPCB ww and the variables egg volume, yolk mass, and hatchling mass. We suggest 

that these relationships are passive causes of a higher lipid concentration in small eggs, rather 

than the PCB affecting the variables. Analyses showed that there was a borderline significant 

positive correlation between ΣPCB lw in yolk and plasma retinol concentration. Although the 

results indicate that plasma retinol level alone is a poor indicator of PCB exposure in shag 

hatchlings, the result may be related to the low level of contaminant exposure and the low 

sample size of the study. 

Nettleship, D. N. and Peakall, D. B. 1987. Organochlorine residue levels in three high Arctic 

species of colonially-breeding seabirds from Prince Leopold Island. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 18(8):434-

438. 

Rec #: 44 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; Northwest Territories; Canada; North America; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

156 

bioaccumulation; liver; egg; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Levels of DDE and PCB residues in Northern Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis, blacklegged kittiwake Rissa tridactyla and thick-billed Murre Uria lomvia collected at Prince Leopold 

Island, Northwest Territories, between 1975 and 1977 are relatively low. Organochlorine levels 

were highest in all species in 1976, a year when lipid levels in all tissue examined (adult and 

chick liver, egg) were highest. Annual variation of DDE and PCB may thus be largely due to 

differences in nutritional and associated environmental conditions. The unusually high 

PCB/DDE ratio for the kittiwake cannot be explained by low DDE concentrations rather than by 

high concentrations of PCBs as suggested elsewhere. Data from Prince Leopold Island birds 

indicate both that DDE concentrations are low and that PCB concentrations are high. 

Newton, I.; Haas, Margaret B.; and Bell, A. A. 1981. Pollutants in guillemot eggs. Institute of 

Terrestrial Ecology Annual Report 1981. 57-59. 

Rec #: 309 

KEYWORDS: egg; common murre; Uria aalge; Great Britain; Europe; organochlorines; DDTs; 

dieldrin; PCBs; metals; Hg; spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: In 1980, 10 guillemot (Uria aalge) egg were collected from each of three colonies 

in the UK. The eggs were analyzed for DDE, HEOD, PCBs, and Hg and compared to results 

obtained in 1969-1972. 

Nielsen, Christian Overgaard and Dietz, Rune. 1989. Heavy metals in Greenland seabirds. 

Meddelelser Om Grønland, Bioscience 29. 1-26. 

Rec #: 300 

KEYWORDS: Greenland; North America; metals; Zn; Cd; Hg; Se; muscle; liver; kidney; black 

guillemot; Cepphus grylle; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; little auk; Alle alle; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; 

red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; Iceland gull; Larus glaucoides; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; ivory gull; Pagophila eburnea; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius 

pomarinus; gender differences; age variations; bioaccumulation; spatial variations; 

ABSTRACT: From six Greenland districts we report the concentration of Zn, Cd, Hg, and Se in 

muscle (pectoral), liver and kidneys for 320 seabirds of the following species: Cepphus grylle, 

Uria lomvia, Alle alle, Somateria mollissima, Somateria spectabilis, Clangula hyemalis, Mergus 

serrator, Larus glaucoides, L. hyperboreus, Rissa tridactyla, Pagophila eburnea, Fulmarus 

glacialis, Phalacrocorax carbo, and Stercorarius pomarinus. 

Concentrations vary widely within species. Yearlings are low in Cd and Hg. Concentrations 

tend to increase with age. No significant differences between sexes were found. 

On a wet weight basis, the Zn concentration in liver and kidney is c. three times that of muscle. 

Gulls and the fulmar possess significantly more Zn in muscle than do other seabirds. The Cd 

concentration in liver and kidney is c. 20 and 80 times higher than in muscle, whereas the Hg 

concentration liver and kidney is three to five times higher than that of muscle. The Se 

concentration in liver and kidney is c. five times the muscle concentration. Muscle, liver, and 

kidney concentrations tend to correlate positively for Cd, Hg, and Se. For Zn only liver and 

kidney concentrations correlate mutually. 

On a molar basis, the three organs of all species have a large excess of Se or Hg. The intra-organ 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

157 

association of elements is strongest for Zn and Cd in liver and kidney, and for Hg and Se 

generally. 

All four elements show consistently higher concentrations in birds from NW and NE Greenland 

than in those from S Greenland. For C. grylle from Avanersuaq, NW Greenland, the Cd 

concentration is twice that of birds from S Greenland, the difference being highly significant. 

Hg concentrations are not significantly different. 

Norheim, Gunnar. 1987. Levels and interactions of heavy metals in sea birds from Svalbard and 

the Antarctic. Environ. Pollut. 47(2):83-94. 

Rec #: 514 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cu; Zn; Cd; Pb; Hg; Se; liver; kidney; Svalbard; Europe; glaucous gull; 

Larus hyperboreus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; little 

auk; Alle alle; common eider; Somateria mollissima; macaroni penguin; Eudyptes chrysolophus; 

brown skua; Catharacta lonnbergi; spatial variations; toxicology 

ABSTRACT: Samples of liver and kidney from 92 sea birds of 10 species collected on 

Spitsbergen and in the Antarctic, were analyzed for their content of Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Hg, and Se. 

Significantly higher levels of Cu and Zn were observed in birds from Spitsbergen than in those 

from the Antarctic, while the opposite was true for Se. The highest Cd levels were found in 

fulmar Fulmarus glacialis and macaroni penguin Eudyptes chrysolophus. A possibility of 

kidney damage due to Cd exists. The highest Hg levels were recorded in brown skua Catharacta 

lonnbergi collected at Bouvetoya. Pb was not detected in any of the birds. Significant 

correlations were observed between levels of several of the metals studied, especially between 

Cd and Zn and between Hg and Se. However, for all birds, the highest correlation coefficients 

were observed when the molar concentrations of Cd plus Hg, and Se plus Zn were used in the 

calculations. Thus, several protective mechanisms may operate to diminish effects of heavy 

metal contaminants. 

Norheim, Gunnar and Borch-Iohnsen, Berit. 1990. Svalbard: Trace elements in liver from eider. 

In: Låg, J. (Ed.) Excess and Deficiency of Trace Elements in Relation to Human and Animal 

Health in Arctic and Subarctic Regions. Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. 217-219. 

Rec #: 527 

KEYWORDS: metals; liver; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; histopathology; gender differences; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima

ABSTRACT: During egg laying and brooding female common eiders (Somateria mollissima) 

are known to lose liver weight which, along with translocation of body iron, may result in an 

increase of liver iron. Brooding females and males were collected from Svalbard, Norway and 

their livers were examined for copper, iron, selenium, and zinc. The total body weight of the 

females was reduced 25 % compared to males. Iron levels were 5.1 times higher and zinc levels 

were twice as high in females. Copper and selenium levels were not significantly different. 

Massive siderosis was seen in females that cannot be explained by liver weight loss alone. 

Norheim, Gunnar and Kjos-Hanssen, Bjørn. 1984. Persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons and 

mercury in birds caught off the west coast of Spitsbergen. Environ. Pollut. (A Ecol. Biol.). 

33(2):143-152. 

Rec #: 438 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCB; metals; Hg; glaucous gull; Larus 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

158 

hyperboreus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; little auk; 

Alle alle; common eider; Somateria mollissima; Norway; Europe; liver; fat; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The tissue concentrations of DDE (I) [72-55-9], PCB, HCB [118-74-1] and Hg 

were detected in 5 species of migrating seabirds: glaucous gull Larus hyperboreus; fulmar 

Fulmarus glacialis; Brünnich's guillemot Uria lomvia; little auk Alle alle and eider Somateria 

mollissima. These birds nest on Svalbard and were shot in May 1980 off the west coast of 

Spitsbergen. The highest levels of DDE, PCB and HCB were found in glaucous gull, whereas 

low levels were found in Brünnich's guillemot, little auk and, especially, eider. Fulmars were 

intermediate. Highly significant correlations were found between the concentrations of HCB, 

DDE and PCB, indicating that the Gulf Stream may be a common source of these substances. 

The highest Hg levels were found in the fulmar; glaucous gull and eider were intermediate, 

whereas the lowest Hg levels were found in Brünnich's guillemot and little auk. There was no 

connection between the nutritional condition and concentrations of the pollutants detected 

However, there seems to be a close relationship between the levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons 

and the trophic level of the birds in the food chain. A comparison between the present results 

and analyses of Antarctic seabirds indicates that the aquatic food chain in the Arctic is more 

loaded with persistent chlorinated hydrocarbons than in the Antarctic, whereas more Hg seems to 

be found in Antarctic birds. 

Norstrom, R. J.; Fox, G. A.; Jeffrey, D. A.; and Gilman, A. P. 1983. Dynamics of organochlorine 

compounds in herring gulls. Proceedings of the 26th Conference on Great Lakes Research. May 

23-27, 1983, State University of New York at Oswego. 39 pp. 

Rec #: 221 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; blood; carcass; organochlorines; PCBs; 

DDTs; mirex; HCB; dieldrin; chlordanes; Great Lakes; North America; elimination 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: Herring gull (Larus argentatus) eggs have been collected annually since 1973 in 

all of the Great Lakes for monitoring organochlorine trends in the ecosystems. In order to make 

meaningful quantitative interpretation of these data, a knowledge of the pharmacodynamics of 

the compounds in female gulls is required. Whole-body clearance of p,p-DDE, one of the major 

residues in the Great Lakes, has been measured in wild gulls by dosing with 14C-labeled DDE 

and recapturing one year later. Assuming first-order kinetics, a half-life of 220 plus or minus 30 

d was determined. Preliminary data from analysis of plasma from dosed, caged gulls show that 

half-lives of photomirex, mirex and PCBs were similar to that of DDE. Half-lives of other 

compounds were in the range of 50-100 d for hexachlorobenzene, dieldrin, oxychlordane and 

octachlorostyrene, 25 d for p,p-DDD and < 10 d for gamma -hexachlorocyclohexane and tchlordane. The consequences of these results to the interpretation of the egg monitoring data is 

discussed. 

Norstrom, R. J.; Gilman, A. P.; and Hallett, D. J. 1981. Total organically-bound chlorine and 

bromine in Lake Ontario herring gull eggs, 1977, by instrumental neutron activation and 

chromatographic methods. Sci. Total Environ. 20(3):217-230. 

Rec #: 536 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; mirex; HCB; chlordanes; dieldrin; HCHs; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; Great Lakes; North America; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: In order to determine the extent to which organically-bound chlorine in Herring 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

159 

Gull eggs from Lake Ontario can be accounted for by gas chromatographic analysis, comparison 

was made with values obtained for total chlorine using instrumental neutron activation analysis 

(INAA). Total chlorine and bromine (mg/kg fresh weight of egg) was determined by INAA on 

crude extract (Cl, 65 ± 35; Br, 1/03 ± 1.00), Florisil-chromatography treated extracts (Cl, 46 ± 

10; Br, 0.93 ± 0.82) and H2SO4-treated extracts (Cl, 43 ± 11; Br, 0.44 ± 0.22) of eggs collected 

from seven colonies around Lake Ontario in 1977. Levels of chlorine were also determined by 

gas chromatography using the Hall electrolytic conductivity detector (51 ±11 mg/kg) and 

estimated by conversion of levels of individual residues determined by electron-capture gas 

chromatography (61 ±12 mg/kg). The agreement between the various determinations indicated 

that PCBs, DDE, mirex and photomirex accounted for most of the organically-bound chlorine. 

Two colonies had total chlorine levels in crude extracts 2–4 times higher than could be 

accounted for by known compounds. The "excess" chlorine was removed by H2SO4-treatment or 

Florisil clean-up. The same two samples had abnormally high bromine levels, possibly indicating 

the presence of compounds formed during aqueous chlorination processes. 

Norstrom, R. J.; Hebert, C. E.; Fox, G. A.; Kennedy, S.; and Weseloh, D. V. 1995. The herring 

gull as a biomonitor of trends in levels and effects of halogenated contaminants in Lake Ontario: 

A 25-year case history. In: Proceedings of the 38th Conference of the International Association 

for Great Lakes Research, East Lansing, MI (USA), 28 May-1 Jun 1995. 32 pp. 

Rec #: 236 

KEYWORDS: Great Lakes; North America; herring gull; Larus argentatus; bioaccumulation; 

egg; organochlorines; TEQs; PCBs; PCDDs; HCB; DDTs; reproductive success; temporal 

trends; effects 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: Poor reproductive success of fish-eating birds in the Great Lakes in the late 

1960s-early 1970s, ascribed to the effects of Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons (HAHs) such 

as DDE, PCBs, and 2,3,7,8-TCDD, precipitated serious concern about HAHs in the Great Lakes 

ecosystem. Studies on herring gulls from Lake Ontario over the last 20-25 years have produced 

one of the best documented case studies on a seabird which integrates biology (feeding ecology, 

energetics) and effects of HAHs (behavioural, reproductive, and biochemical), temporal trends in 

HAH levels (including whole-lake chemical budgets) and TEQs, sources of contamination 

(PCDDs), identification of new contaminants (photomirex), experimental clearance studies and 

modelling of HAH food-chain bioaccumulation. The herring gull is a hardy, resident, largely 

piscivorous species which maintained breeding colonies on Lake Ontario throughout the period 

of highest contamination, despite low reproductive success (ca. 0.2 fledglings/nest). 

Reproductive success improved dramatically to >1 fledglings/nest between 1975-1977, during a 

period of rapid decline in HAH concentrations in eggs. Evidence points to PCB/TCDD and/or 

HCB embryotoxity as the main cause of reproductive failure, but other contaminants may have 

contributed. We have identified over 150 HAH and other halogenated contaminants in eggs. 

Norstrom, R. J.; Simon, M.; Whitehead, P. E.; Kussat, R.; and Garrett, C. 1988. Levels of 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) in biota 

and sediments near potential sources of contamination in British Columbia, 1987. Canadian 

Wildlife Service Analytical Report CRD-88-5. 

Rec #: 551 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; British Columbia; Canada; North America; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

160 

pulp mill; great blue heron; Ardea herodias; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

egg; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: This report is intended to bring together in one place all of the chemical data 

obtained as part of the joint CWS/HQ and C&P, Pacific Region Pestfund projects on levels in 

biota and sediments and sources of PCDDs and PCDFs in the Strait of Georgia area in British 

Columbia in 1987. PCDD and PCDF contamination was discovered in pooled eggs of the Great 

Blue Heron (Ardea herodius) from a colony on the University of British Columbia in 1982. The 

monitoring program was expanded to 3 more colonies in 1983 including a "control" site and two 

sites near bleached kraft mills, sawmills, and lumber mills. By 1987, the program had expanded 

to 17 sites and included Dungeness Crabs (Cancer magister), Staghorn Sculpin (Leptocottus 

armatus), bivalves (oysters, mussels or clams), Prickly Sculpin (Cottus asper), Double-Crested 

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), and sediment samples. The results of the chemical analysis 

are given and briefly discussed. 

Norstrom, Ross J.; Clark, Thomas P.; Jeffrey, Deborah A.; Won, Henry T.; and Gilman, Andrew 

P. 1986. Dynamics of organochlorine compounds in herring gulls (Larus argentatus): I. 

Distribution and clearance of [14C] DDE in free-living herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 5(1):41-48. 

Rec #: 166 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; bioaccumulation; elimination; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; carcass; muscle; liver; brain; blood; egg; Great Lakes; North America; gender 

differences 

ABSTRACT: Radiolabelled [14C] DDE was used as a model compound to determine important 

factors in the clearance of persistent lipophilic compounds in free-living herring gulls (L. 

argentatus). Adult, breeding male and female gulls were dosed orally during incubation and 

then captured one week and one year later. After one week, [ 14C] DDE had equilibrated with 

native DDE in all tissues. The ratios of DDE levels on a lipid weight basis relative to whole body 

were as follows: muscle, 0.8 to 0.9; liver, 0.5 to 0.7; egg, 0.4; and brain. 0.1. The plasma/whole 

body lipid partition coefficient was 0.0041 plus or minus 0.0014. The whole body annual 

average clearance rate was 0.95 plus or minus 0.51 year-1(half-life = 264 d). Native DDE levels 

in males were twice those in females, but no differences were found for [14C] DDE after one 

year. 

Norstrom, Ross J.; Simon, Mary; Moisey, John; Wakeford, Bryan; and Weseloh, D. V. Chip. 

2002. Geographical distribution (2000) and temporal trends (1981-2000) of brominated diphenyl 

ethers in Great Lakes herring gull eggs. Environ. Sci. Technol. 36(22):4783-4789. 

Rec #: 358 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; PBDEs; Great Lakes; North America; 

spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: The geographical distribution of brominated di-Ph ether (BDE) flame retardants 

in the North American Great Lakes ecosystem in 2000 was detected by analysis of herring gull 

eggs (13 egg pools) from a network of 15 monitoring colonies scattered throughout the lakes and 

connecting channels. ΣBDEs were found at concentrations ranging from 192 to 1400 μg/kg, 

mean of 662 ± 368 μg/kg (wet weight of egg contents). The highest concentrations were found 

in northern Lake Michigan and Toronto Harbor (Ontario) (1000-1400 μg/kg) and the lowest in 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

161 

Lake Huron and Lake Erie (192-340 μg/kg). The distribution suggested that input from large 

urban/industrial areas through air or water emissions contributes local contamination of the 

herring gull food web in addition to background levels from regional/global transport. The 

congener composition was similar among sampling sites. Major congeners were BDE-47 (43 

%), BDE-99 (26 %), BDE-100 (13 %) BDE-153 (11 %), BDE-154 (4 %), BDE-183 (2 %), and 

BDE-28 (1 %). Temporal trends of BDE contamination, 1981-2000, were established by 

analysis of archived herring gull eggs (10 egg pools) from colonies in northern Lake Michigan, 

Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron and eastern Lake Ontario. BDE-47, -99 and -100, and BDE-153, -154 

and -183 concentrations were grouped separately for analysis because these two groups had 

different trends and are primarily associated with the penta-BDE and octa-BDE flame retardant 

formulations, respectively. ΣBDE47,99,100 concentrations were 5-12 μg/kg (wet weight) in 

1981-1983 and then increased exponentially (p < 0.00001) at all three sites to 400-1100 μg/kg 

over the next 17 years. Doubling times were 2.6 years in Lake Michigan, 3.1 years in Lake 

Huron, and 2.8 years in Lake Ontario. ΣBDE154, 153, 183 concentrations generally increased 

but varied in an erratic fashion among sites and decreased as a fraction of ΣBDE over time. 

Concentrations of ΣBDE154, 153, 183 were 100-200 μg/kg in eggs from all three colonies in 

2000. Therefore, most of the dramatic increases in ΣBDE concentrations observed over the past 

20 years in the Great Lakes aquatic ecosystem seem to be connected with the penta-BDE 

formulation, which is mainly used as a flame retardant in polyurethane foam in North America. 

If present rates of change continue, concentrations of ΣBDEs will equal or surpass those of 

ΣPCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) in Great Lakes herring gull eggs in 10-15 years. 

Nounou, Pierre. 1979. Oil pollution of oceans (La pollution petroliere des oceans). Recherche. 10 

(97): 147-156. 

Rec #: 268 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; effects 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A review of the processes by which marine environments that have been 

subjected to oil pollution regain their equilibrium is presented. There are 3 stages of evolution of 

hydrocarbons in the marine environment, (1) spreading over the ocean surface which is 

accompanied by evaporation, and dispersion by solution or the formation of an emulsion; (2) 

dispersion of the emulsion, progressive elimination of light hydrocarbons and eventual 

sedimentation. The majority of the sediment is degraded by chemical and biological processes 

within a few months; and (3) the remaining heavy hydrocarbons form semi stable tar 

agglomerates. The effects of using detergents to disperse oil spillages are discussed. The 

geomorphology of coastlines is important in determining the susceptibility to oil pollution and 

the various factors involved are considered. Immediate effects of oil spillage on marine life and 

seabirds is discussed. 

Odsjö, Tjelvar; Bignert, Anders; Olsson, Mats; Asplund, Lillemor; Eriksson, Ulla; Häggberg, 

Lisbeth; Litzén, Kerstin; de Wit, Cynthia; Rappe, Christoffer; and Ĺslund, Kerttu. 1997. The 

Swedish Environmental Specimen Bank--Application in trend monitoring of mercury and some 

organohalogenated compounds. Chemosphere. 34(9-10):2059-2066. 

Rec #: 263 

KEYWORDS: Sweden; Europe; common murre; Uria aalge; egg; blood; organochlorines; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

162 

PCBs; DDTs; PCDDs; PCDFs; metals; Hg; radionuclides; toxicology; TEQs; vitamin A; retinol; 

effects; temporal trends 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The Environmental Specimen Bank (ESB) at the Swedish Museum of Natural 

History, Stockholm, constitutes a base for ecotoxicological research as well as for spatial and 

trend monitoring of contaminants in Swedish fauna. Since the 1960s, tissue samples from more 

than 150000 organisms have been collected from different groups of animals, habitats and types 

of landscape. Samples from the ESB have been utilized for retrospective studies of trace 

elements, organohalogenated compounds and radionuclides. Among many matrices utilized, 

eggs of guillemot (Uria aalge) have proven to be an appropriate matrix for assessment of the 

contamination of the Baltic Sea. Results from time trend studies based on this material showing 

trends in concentrations of DDT, PCB, PCDD/F, and mercury are presented in this paper. 

Ohlendorf, Harry M.; Bartonek, James C.; Divoky, George J.; Klass, Erwin E.; and Krynitsky, 

Alexander J. 1982. Organochlorine residues in eggs of Alaskan seabirds. United States 

Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Special Scientific Report - Wildlife No. 

245, Washington, DC. 42 pp. 

Rec #: 294 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; Pacific Ocean; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCB; 

chlordanes; toxaphene; mirex; dieldrin; egg; common loon; Gavia immer; glaucous-winged gull; 

Larus glaucescens; fork-tailed storm petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; Leach's storm-petrel; 

Oceanodroma leucorhoa; tufted puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; horned puffin; Fratercula 

corniculata; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; red-faced cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

urile; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; common gull; Larus canus; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; Aleutian tern; Sterna aleutica; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; ancient 

murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; common murre; Uria 

aalge; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: One egg from each of 440 clutches of eggs of 19 species of Alaskan seabirds 

collected in 1973-76 was analyzed for organochlorine residues. All eggs contained DDE; 98.9 % 

contained PCB's; 84.3 %, oxychlordane; and 82.7 %, HCB. Endrin was found in only one egg, 

but DDD, DDT, dieldrin, heptachlor, epoxide, mirex, cis-chlordane (or trans-nonachlor), cisnonachlor, and toxaphene each occurred in at least 22 % of the samples. 

Concentrations of organochlorines in the samples were generally low. Mean concentrations of 

eight compounds were highest in eggs of glaucous-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens) from three 

sites: DDE (5.16 ppm, wet weight), dieldrin (0.214 ppm), cis-chlordane (0.075 ppm), and HCB 

(0.188 ppm) in eggs form Buldir island: and cis-nonachlor (0.026 ppm) in eggs from the Semidi 

Islands. Highest concentrations of DDD (0.157 ppm), DDT (0.140 ppm), and toxaphene (0.101 

ppm) were in eggs of fork-tailed storm petrel (Oceanodroma furcata) from Buldir island, and the 

highest concentration of mirex (0.044 ppm) was in fork-tailed storm petrel eggs from Barren 

Islands. 

Both frequency of occurrence and concentration of residues in the eggs differed geographically 

and by species, apparently reflecting non-uniform distribution of organochlorines in the 

environment, dissimilar feeding habits and migration patterns of the species, or metabolic 

differences among the species. 

The overall frequency of residue occurrence was highest in eggs from the Pribilof Islands, but 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

163 

only three species were represented in the samples collected there. Detectable residues also were 

more frequent in eggs from the Gulf of Alaska colonies than elsewhere, and the lowest frequency 

was in eggs from nesting colonies on or near the Seward Peninsula. Regionally, concentrations 

of DDE and PCB's were usually higher than average in eggs from the Gulf of Alaska and lower 

than average in eggs fro the Aleutian Islands and Bristol Bay. However, within some species 

there were exceptions to ths general pattern, and mean concentrations of most chemicals differed 

from one site to another within the same region. 

Among eggs of species collected in two or more regions, residue frequencies were highest in 

those of fork-tailed storm-petrel, tufted puffin (Lunda cirrhata), horned puffin (Fratercula 

corniculata), pelagic cormorant (Phalacrocorax pelagicus), and northern fulmar (Fulmarus 

glacialis), and lowest in those of common murre (Uria aalge), black-legged kittiwake (Rissa 

tridactyla), double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), and thick-billed murre (Uria 

lomvia). 

On a regional basis, mean concentrations of DDE and PCB's varied significantly among species, 

but there were few consistent patterns of species differences, except that levels of DDE were 

always lowest in black-legged kittiwakes and concentrations of PCB's were usually lowest in 

murres. Also, concentrations of both chemicals (except PCB's in the Gulf of Alaska) were 

usually higher in northern fulmars than in other species, and the highest concentrations of both 

DDE and PCB's found in this study were in glaucous-winged gulls in the Aleutian Islands. 

Olsson, M.; Jensen, S.; and Renber, L. 1973. PCB in coastal areas of the Baltic. PCB Conf. II, 

1972, Suppl. 4E. Solina, Sweeden: Swed. Environ. Prot. Board. 321-326. 

Rec #: 545 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; biomagnification; Baltic Sea; Europe; muscle; common 

goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; red-breasted merganser; 

Mergus serrator; common merganser; Mergus merganser; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; 

black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; common murre; Uria aalge; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

white-tailed sea eagle; Haliaeetus albicilla; eagle owl; Bubo bubo

ABSTRACT: Invertebrates living in the littoral zone of the Baltic Sea showed mainly low levels 

of PCB and fish feeding mainly on these invertebrates also had rather low levels, <10 ppm in 

extractable fat. Plankton samples from the pelagic zone had rather high levels, approximately 5 

ppm, considering their low position in the food chain. Herring and jellyfish which feed on 

plankton had PCB levels of approximately 30 ppm. Birds feeding mainly on invertebrates had 

10-20 ppm PCB, while fish-eating birds showed 87-650 ppm PCB. Fish-eating mammals had 

approximately 70 ppm PCB, while birds of prey showed 10,000 ppm PCB. The main entrance 

of PCB into the food chain is probably through plankton. 

Olsson, Mats and Reutergårdh, Lars. 1986. DDT and PCB pollution trends in the Swedish 

aquatic environment. Ambio. 15:103-109. 

Rec #: 308 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; egg; common 

murre; Uria aalge; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Since the end of the 1960's samples of biota have been collected annually in 

various parts of Sweden and analyzed for presence of DDT and PCB substances. During this 

period various steps have been taken by governments to reduce the environmental burden of 

pollutants. How fast have the Baltic environment and the Swedish fresh water reacted? Trend 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

164 

monitoring is one way to get a time perspective on environmental pollution. 

Osborn, D.; Harris, M. P.; and Nicholson, J. K. 1979. Comparative tissue distribution of 

mercury, cadmium and zinc in three species of pelagic seabirds. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 

64C(1):61-67. 

Rec #: 162 

KEYWORDS: Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Manx 

shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; Scotland; Europe; metals; Cd; Hg; Zn; liver; kidney; brain; gut; 

pancreas; gonad; muscle; skin; feather; blood 

ABSTRACT: The levels of Hg, Cd and Zn were measured in tissues of puffin (Fratercula 

arctica), fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) and Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinus). The highest 

levels of Zn and Cd (up to 480 mg/kg Cd, dry weight) were found in kidney, liver, pancreas, 

gonad, and intestine. Substantial quantities of Hg _ mostly methyl mercury _ were found in the 

liver of the fulmar and Manx shearwater (up to 450 mg/kg Hg, dry weight). Puffin feathers 

contained more Hg (7.94 mg/kg Hg, dry weight) than the liver and kidney. The possibility that 

since these birds were breeding they were not suffering any adverse effects of the metals is 

discussed. 

Osborn, D.; Harris, M. P.; and Young, W. J. 1987. Relationships between tissue contaminant 

concentrations in a small sample of seabirds. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. 87C(2): 415-420. 

Rec #: 226 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Hg; organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; PCBs; Atlantic puffin; 

Fratercula arctica; Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; 

Scotland; Europe; liver; kidney; muscle; fat 

ABSTRACT: 1. The metal and organochlorine contaminant concentrations were measured in a 

small sample of three seabird species collected from St Kilda, Scotland, UK, and the relationship 

between concentrations of different contaminants within and between tissues was compared. 2. 

There was little evidence that the concentration of a contaminant in one tissue was indicative of 

the concentration in any other tissue. 3. Generally, different contaminants had not coaccumulated in tissues; this was so even for the lipophilic compounds (DDE and PCBs), with the 

exception of puffin fat. 4. There was a tendency for the species containing the most fat to contain 

the highest concentrations of lipophilic contaminants and there was some suggestion that the fat 

in muscle could play a role in determining PCB concentrations. 

Oxynos, K.; Schmitzer, J.; and Kettrup, A. 1993. Herring gull eggs as bioindicators for 

chlorinated hydrocarbons (contribution to the German Federal Environmental Specimen Bank). 

Sci. Total Environ. 139-140:387-398. 

Rec #: 334 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; 

dieldrin; DDTs; PCBs; Germany; Wadden Sea; Europe; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: From its position in the marine food chain, the herring gull (Larus argentatus ) is 

a suitable indicator for the level of contamination of its habitats with lipophilic chemicals, 

especially the chlorinated hydrocarbons. The gull's utility as an indicator is demonstrated by 

investigations performed at Trischen island in the Elbe estuary and Alte Mellum island situated 

in the Weser estuary, when judged by their ability to reflect variations in pollution levels. The 

use of the analytical technique developed and standardized for the German Environmental 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

165 

Specimen Bank gives comparable results for both temporal and spatial variations for 

contamination levels on the different islands in the Wadden Sea are (North Sea coast) of 

Germany. 

Paasivirta, Jaakko; Särkkä, Jukka; Pellinen, Jukka; and Humppi, Tarmo. 1981. Biocides in eggs 

of aquatic birds. Completion of a food chain enrichment study for DDT, PCB and mercury. 

Chemosphere. 10(7):787-794. 

Rec #: 375 

KEYWORDS: egg; Finland; Europe; metals; Hg; organochlorines; HCB; DDTs; PCBs; 

temporal trends; spatial variations; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus

ABSTRACT: Eggs of 7 aquatic bird species of Lake Paijanne, Finland were analyzed for their 

contents of HCB [118-74-1], DDE [72-55-9], PCB, Hg, and methylmercury. Methylmercury 

was 85.5 % which is the same as in fish. Also the levels of total Hg were of the same order of 

magnitude in eggs and in fish of Paijanne, but the levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons were much 

higher in eggs. Differences between species were highly significant but the annual and regional 

differences were mostly insignificant. The chlorinated hydrocarbons correlated positive with 

each other and with fat contents but insignificantly with Hg contents. Calculation of total residue 

amounts in eggs and juvenile and adult bird specimens exposed an enrichment of DDT [50-29-3] 

to 3, PCB to 5, and Hg to all 7 species. 

Page, G. W.; Stenzel, L. E.; and Ainley, D. G. 1982. Beached bird carcasses as a means of 

evaluating natural and human-caused seabird mortality. Final Report. DOE/EV/10254-T1. NTIS 

Order No.: DE82016736; Contract AC03-79EV10254. 150 pp. 

Rec #: 270 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; CA; USA; North America; carcass 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A model was developed to determine the extent to which a large spill, by directly 

killing birds, could reduce the size of bird populations in the Gulf of the Faralones and its 

adjacent California estuaries. An attempt was then made to apply the model to a large spill that 

occurred in this area during 1971. To add perspective, the problem of the low but constant level 

of oil pollution that exists in developed coastal areas is discussed, and the way in which mortality 

from oil pollution compares with that from other factors is considered. (ERA citation 07:055223) 

Parslow, J. L. F. and Jefferies, D. J. 1973. Relation between organochlorine residues in livers and 

whole bodies of guillemots. Environ. Pollut. 5(2):87-101. 

Rec #: 509 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; common murre; Uria aalge; liver; 

carcass; Irish Sea; Europe; effects 

ABSTRACT: Analyses of the liver and whole body levels of organochlorine insecticides and 

polychlorinated biphenyl residues in guillemots from the Irish Sea region indicated a significant 

relation between liver and whole body values. Birds found dead on the beach following a period 

of starvation had lost about 40 % of their body weight and, due to the mobilization of depot fat, 

organochlorine residues in their livers were much higher than those in the livers of shot birds. 

Polychlorinated biphenyl residues, together with natural stress factors, may have been involved 

in the death of large numbers of guillemots in 1969. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

166 

Peakall, D. B. 1988. Known effects of pollutants on fish-eating birds in the Great Lakes of North 

America. In: Schmidtke, Norbert W. (Ed), Toxic Contamination in Large Lakes. Volume 1. 

Chronic Effects of Toxic Contaminants in Large Lakes. 39-54. 

Rec #: 127 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; organochlorines; DDTs; Great Lakes; North America; egg; 

eggshell thickness; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; black-crowned night 

heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; osprey; Pandion haliaetus; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; 

abnormalities; reproductive success; temporal trends; toxicology; MFOs; thyroid hormones; 

porphyrin 

ABSTRACT: By the mid 1970s we had become aware that fish-eating birds had serious 

problems in the Great Lakes of North America. Marked declines of the population of the two 

fish-eating raptors - Bald Eagle and Osprey - and Double-crested Cormorant had occurred. 

Herring Gulls were experiencing poor reproductive success on Lake Michigan and Lake Ontario. 

There were reports of abnormalities in young common terns. In the case of the raptors and 

cormorant, eggshell thinning leading to reproductive failure appears to have been the major 

cause of the population declines. There is good evidence that the causative agent was DDE. 

Marked eggshell thinning was not observed in gulls and terns. Detailed studies on herring gulls 

showed the presence of both behavioral and embryotoxic effects. Reproductive success 

improved rapidly in the late 1970s and is now normal for all species except Foster's tern in Lake 

Michigan. Nevertheless, detailed investigations into the biochemistry and physiology of herring 

gulls still show significant differences along the pollutant gradient within the Great Lakes when 

compared to marine colonies. These parameters include induction of mixed function oxidases, 

thyroid function, and levels of hepatic porphyrins. 

Peakall, D. B.; Hallett, D.; Miller, D. S.; Butler, R. G.; and Kinter, W. B. 1980. Effects of 

ingested crude oil on black guillemots: A combined field and laboratory study. Ambio. 9(1):28-

30. 

Rec #: 130 

KEYWORDS: toxicology; oil; effects; dosing study; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: A new procedure for testing the physiological effects of pollutants in seabirds in 

their natural environment is described. With this procedure it was found that a single 0.1-0.5ml 

oral dose of weathered crude oil caused a transient rise in plasma sodium, nasal and adrenal 

gland hypertrophy and an overall decrease in body weight gain in nesting black guillemots 

(Cepphus grylle). 

Peakall, D. B.; Hallett, D. J.; Bend, J. R.; Foureman, G. L.; and Miller, D. S. 1982. Toxicity of 

Prudhoe Bay crude oil and its aromatic fractions to nestling herring gulls. Environ. Res. 

27(1):206-215. 

Rec #: 132 

KEYWORDS: toxicology; effects; oil; herring gull; Larus argentatus; dosing study 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The physiological effects of a single ingested dose of Prudhoe Bay crude oil 

(PBC), its aromatic fractions, and PBC/Clorexit emulsion were studied in nestling herring gulls 

(Larus argentatus). The data showed that the high-molecular-weight aromatic compounds were 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

167 

responsible for retardation of growth and increases in adrenal and nasal gland weight. Little 

difference was found between PBC and the PBC/Clorexit emulsion although the latter did have a 

somewhat more marked effect on plasma sodium levels. 

Peakall, D. B.; Jeffrey, D. A.; and Boersma, D. 1987. Mixed-function oxidase activity in 

seabirds and its relationship to oil pollution. Comp. Biochem. Physiol., C. 88C(1):151-154. 

Rec #: 143 

KEYWORDS: enzymes; oil; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Leach's storm-petrel; 

Oceanodroma leucorhoa; common murre; Uria aalge; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; liver; 

dosing study; effects; toxicology; EROD; MFOs 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The hepatic activity of epoxide hydrolase, aldrin epoxidase, aminopyrine Ndemethylase, 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase, benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase and UDP 

glucuronyl transferase was determined in adult herring gulls (Larus argentatus) at various stages 

of the breeding season. MFO activity was measured for adult Leach's storm-petrels 

(Oceanodroma leucorhoa), guillemot (Uria aalge) and Atlantic puffins (Fratercula arctica). For 

most assays the values were highest for the puffin. MFO activity in both nestling and adult 

Atlantic puffins was determined. The degree of induction caused by a single internal dose of 

Prudhoe Bay crude oil in adult puffins and that caused by multiple internal doses in nestling 

puffins was measured. 

Peakall, D. B.; Miller, D. S.; and Kinter, W. B. 1983. Toxicity of crude oils and their fractions to 

nestling herring gulls. 1. Physiological and biochemical effects. Mar. Environ. Res. 8(2):63-71. 

Rec #: 135 

KEYWORDS: toxicology; oil; PAHs; hydrocarbons; dosing study; effects; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The physiological and biochemical effects of ingested crude oil and their aromatic 

and aliphatic fractions were studied in nestling herring gulls (Larus argentatus). Single doses of 

0 multiplied by 2 - 1 multiplied by 0 ml of two batches of South Louisiana Crude oil (SLC-76 

and SLC-78) were used. SLC-76 caused marked retardation of growth, some disruption of 

plasma osmoregulation and hypertrophy of adrenal and nasal salt gland tissue; SLC-78 had no 

detectable effects on gull chicks. Weathering of SLC-76 for 36 h did not reduce its toxicity and 

when SLC-76 was fractionated, the aromatic fraction was substantially more toxic then the 

aliphatic fraction. 

Peakall, D. B.; Norstrom, R. J.; Jeffrey, D. A.; and Leighton, F. A. 1989. Induction of hepatic 

mixed function oxidases in the herring gull (Larus argentatus) by Prudhoe Bay crude oil and its 

fractions. Comp. Biochem. Physiol., C. 94C(2):461-463. 

Rec #: 142 

KEYWORDS: oil; liver; enzymes; toxicology; MFOs; effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

dosing study; EROD 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The hepatic activity in herring gull (Larus argentatus) chicks of aminopyrine Ndemethylase, benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase, 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase and aldrin 

epoxidase were all induced 24 hours after a single oral dose of Prudhoe Bay Crude Oil (PBCO). 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

168 

Aminopyrine N-demethylase was maximally induced by a dose of 0.1 ml; the other enzymes 

responded in a dose-dependent manner over the range 0.1-1.0 ml. The activity of all enzymes 

had decreased significantly after 72 hours indicating that hepatic enzymes are a sensitive but 

short lived, biological indicator of exposure to oil. Fractionation of PBCO showed that the 

induction was largely caused by the aromatic fraction. 

Peakall, D. B; Norstrom, R. J.; Rahimtula, A. D.; and Butler, R. G. 1986. Characterization of 

mixed-function oxidase systems of the nestling herring gull and its implications for bioeffects 

monitoring. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 5(4):379-385. 

Rec #: 145 

KEYWORDS: liver; muscle; organochlorines; toxicology; MFOs; cytochrome P450; EROD; 

organochlorines; HCB; DDTs; PCBs; chlordanes; dieldrin; effects; enzymes; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; Newfoundland; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: The hepatic mixed-function oxidase system was characterized in embryonic and 

nestling herring gulls (Larus argentatus). The activity of aminopyrine N-demethylase decreased 

significantly with the age of the nestlings. No consistent changes in 7-ethyoxyresorufin Odeethylase, benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase or cytochrome P450 levels with age were found. Levels 

of organochlorines were determined in individual livers for the 21-d-old nestlings. Correlations 

among organochlorine residue levels were good, and the activities of aminopyrine Ndemethylase and benzo(a)pyrene 3-hydroxylase correlated with each other and with cytochrome 

P450 levels. No correlations were found with 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activity, and none 

of the enzyme levels correlated with the organochlorine residue levels. However, cytochrome 

P450 levels correlated with both hexachlorobenzene and oxychlordane levels. 

Peakall, D. B.; Tremblay, J.; and Kinter, W. B. 1981. Endocrine dysfunction in seabirds caused 

by ingested oil. Environ. Res. 24(1):6-14. 

Rec #: 133 

KEYWORDS: oil; gland; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Leach's storm petrel; Oceanodroma 

leucorhoa; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; dosing study; effects; toxicology 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: In laboratory and field experiments, a single oral dose (0.1-1.0 ml) of certain 

crude oils or aromatic fractions caused elevated plasma corticosterone and thyroxine levels in 

nestling herring gulls and black guillemots. In gulls, plasma corticosterone levels were elevated 

within 1 day after dosing; the maximal effect was observed after 4 days and levels returned to 

control values after 2 wk. Thyroxine levels did not increase until 6 days after dosing and 

remained elevated after 2 wk. Since only those oils which reduced seabird growth rates affected 

hormone levels, the data suggest that disruption of endocrine balance is one underlying cause of 

depressed growth in oil-dosed birds. 

Peakall, D. B.; Wells, P. G.; and Mackay, D. 1987. A hazard assessment of chemically dispersed 

oil spills and seabirds. Mar. Environ. Res. 22(2):91-106. 

Rec #: 137 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; toxicology; reproductive success; effects; dosing study; mallard; 

Anas platyrhynchos; Leach's storm petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

169 

ABSTRACT: The effects of dispersants on both the exposure to and toxicity of oil to seabirds 

are considered in order to assess the hazard. Ideally the dispersant mixes with oil and disperses it 

into the water column. This process is rapid but generally incomplete. The toxicology of one 

dispersant (Corexit 9527), for which data are available, shows that the toxicity of oil-Corexit 

mixtures is similar to that of oil alone. The effect of 2 feeding regimes, pursuit diving and 

surface diving, is considered. Calculations indicate that the amount of oil that is likely to be 

taken up by the bird while moving through the water column is small. It is concluded that there is 

little evidence of synergistic effects between oil and dispersant. The major oiling of birds occurs 

at the surface and thus dispersants must be highly effective to reduce the exposure of birds to oil. 

Peakall, David. 1992. Animal Biomarkers as Pollution Indicators. Ecotoxicol. Ser., Vol. 1, New 

York, NY: Chapman and Hall. 291 pp. 

Rec #: 148 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; toxicology; eggshell thickness; reproductive success; enzymes; 

MFOs; thyroid hormones; porphyrin; vitamin A; retinol; age variations; seasonal variations; 

gender differences; spatial variations; biomagnification; organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; HCB; 

PCBs; PCDDs; oil; organometallics; organic Hg; organophosphates; malathion; methylparathion; 

phosmethylan; liver; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; starling; Sturnus vulgaris; red-winged 

blackbird; Agelaius phoeniceus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; wedge-tailed shearwater; Puffinus 

pacificus; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; brown pelican; Pelecanus 

occidentalis; great egret; Ardea alba; black-crowned night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; mute 

swan; Cygnus olor; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; white-fronted goose; Anser albifrons; 

mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; canvasback duck; Aythya valisineria; sparrowhawk; Accipiter 

nisus; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; osprey; Pandion haliaetus; peregrine falcon; Falco 

peregrinus; pigeon hawk; Falco columbarius; American kestrel; Falco sparverius; Japanese 

quail; Coturnix coturnix; burrowing owl; Athene cunicularia; chukar; Alectoris graeca; bobwhite 

quail; Colinus virginianus; California quail; Callipepla californica; sharp-tailed grouse; 

Tympanuchus phasianellus; grey partridge; Perdix perdix; chicken; Gallus domesticus; pheasant; 

Phasianus colchicus; turkey; Meleagris gallopavo; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; 

lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; western gull; Larus occidentalis; California gull; Larus 

californicus; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; red-billed gull; Larus novaehollandiae; 

laughing gull; Larus atricilla; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; 

common murre; Uria aalge; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; common pigeon; Columba livia; ring dove; Streptopelia risoria; barn swallow; Hirundo 

rustica; redstart; Phoenicurus phoenicurus; red-billed quelea; Quelea quelea; common grackle; 

Quiscalus quiscalus; white-throated sparrow; Zonotrichia albicollis; Bengalese finch; Lonchura 

domestica; zebra finch; Taeniopygia guttata; Great Lakes; North America 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The core of this book is a consideration of the major biomarkers that are 

available. At the beginning of each section there is a brief overview of the biochemistry and 

physiology of the system under consideration. Natural factors that influence the measurements 

such as age, sex, seasonal variations, etc. are then discussed briefly. The summary of 

experimental studies that follows is necessarily high selective. Chapter 3 looks at biomarkers of 

the nervous system; reproduction is considered in Chapter 4, which looks first at field 

investigations, secondly at using embryos, thirdly on effects on the hormone systems, and finally 

at receptors. The techniques available for examining adduct formation of pollutants with DNA 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

170 

and the effects on DNA structure are considered in Chapter 5. The mixed function oxidase 

system, one of the key defenses against xenobiotics, is discussed in Chapter 6. A series of other 

well-established biomarkers is examined in Chapter 7: the thyroid hormones and function, 

retinol, porphyrins and other effects on heme and finally serum enzymes. Effects of toxic 

chemicals on behavior are looked at in Chapter 8 from the viewpoint of their relationship to 

parallel biochemical changes. The final chapter on specific biomarkers discusses the immune 

system. 

Peakall, David B. and Fox, Glen A. 1987. Toxicological investigations of pollutant-related 

effects in Great Lakes gulls. Environ. Health Perspect. 71:187-193. 

Rec #: 146 

KEYWORDS: toxicology; reproductive success; effects; Great Lakes; North America; herring 

gull; Larus argentatus; egg; organochlorines; DDTs; mirex; PCBs; HCB; PCDDs; temporal 

trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Reproductive failure of a number of fish-eating birds was observed on the Great 

Lakes in the mid-1960s to mid-1970s. The herring gull (Larus argentatus) has been used as the 

primary monitoring species. The low hatching success observed in this species on Lake Ontario 

in the mid-1970s was due to loss of eggs and failure of eggs to hatch. Egg exchange experiments 

demonstrated that this was due both to the incubation behavior of adults and to direct 

embryotoxic effects. Decrease of nest attentiveness was demonstrated using telemetered eggs, 

but attempts to reproduce the embryonic effects by injection of pollutant mixtures into eggs were 

not successful. Reproductive success improved rapidly during the late 1970s and was normal by 

the end of the decade. Recent studies have focused on cytogenetic and biochemical changes and 

detailed analytical chemistry of residues. The geographic pattern of these changes indicates that 

they are caused by xenobiotics, but is has not been possible to relate the changes to a specific 

chemical. 

Pearce, P. A.; Elliott, J. E.; Peakall, D. B.; and Norstrom, R. J. 1989. Organochlorine 

contaminants in eggs of seabirds in the Northwest Atlantic, 1968-1984. Environ. Pollut. 

56(3):217-235. 

Rec #: 387 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; HCB; chlordanes; HCHs; egg; doublecrested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; 

Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; Atlantic Ocean; Newfoundland; Canada; North America; 

temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Eggs of three seabird species, double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), 

Leach's storm-petrel (Oceanodroma leucorhoa), and Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) were 

collected at four-year intervals from 1968 to 1984, from colonies in eastern Canada and analyzed 

for organochlorines. This monitoring study was established to provide data on contamination of 

the marine environment and possible implications for seabird health. Long-term trend data are 

presented for PCBs, DDE, dieldrin, HCB, oxychlordane, heptachlor epoxide, HCH, and mirex. 

DDE and PCBs declined significantly in all species from the Bay of Fundy. DDE declined 

significantly in puffins and petrels whereas PCBs declined only in petrels from the Atlantic coast 

of Newfoundland. Generally DDE declined more than PCBs. Dieldrin, oxychlordane, HCH, 

and mirex levels decreased at some locations but were stable at others. Hexachlorobenzene and 

heptachlor epoxide levels remained steady or increased significantly, depending on the species 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

171 

and location. Organochlorine levels in cormorants from the St. Lawrence River estuary showed 

no significant trends. 

Pearce, Peter A.; Peakall, David B.; and Reynolds, Lincoln M. 1979. Shell thinning and residues 

of organochlorines and mercury in seabird eggs, Eastern Canada, 1970-1976. Pestic. Monit. J. 

13(2):61-68. 

Rec #: 21 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; dieldrin; metals; Hg; Quebec; 

Newfoundland; New Brunswick; Nova Scotia; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America; Leach's 

storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

common eider; Somateria mollissima; common tern; Sterna hirundo; razorbill; Alca torda; 

common murre; Uria aalge; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; temporal trends; spatial variations; eggshell thickness; reproductive success 

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine and mercury concentrations are reported for 252 eggs of Leach's 

storm-petrel (Oceanodroma leucorhoa), double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), 

common eider (Somateria mollissima), common tern (Sterna hirundo), razorbill (Alca torda), 

common murre (Uria aalge), black guillemot (Cepphus grylle), and Atlantic puffin (Fratercula 

arctica) from the Bay of Fundy, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the open Atlantic shore of Canada 

during 1970-76. Concentrations of all organochlorines except DDE and polychlorinated 

biphenyls (PCBs) were low. DDE, PCBs, and mercury residues were highest in cormorant and 

petrel, intermediate in alcids, and lowest in eider and tern. Temporal and spatial aspects of 

contamination patterns are discussed. Authors conclude that only in cormorants were DDE 

residues high enough to cause, through eggshell thinning, population declines. 

Pekarik, C. and Weseloh, D. V. 1995. Contaminant trends in herring gull eggs from the Great 

Lakes: Regression analysis of long-term and recent data, 1974-1993. Proceedings of the 38th 

Conference of the International Association of Great Lakes Research., International Association 

for Great Lakes Research, 2200 Bonisteel Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Mi 48109-2099 (USA). 84-85. 

Rec #: 202 

KEYWORDS: North America; Great Lakes; egg; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; temporal 

trends; spatial variations; herring gull; Larus argentatus

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: The levels of 14 organochlorine contaminants in herring gull eggs (Larus 

argentatus) were measured at 13 Great Lakes colonies. Linear regression was applied to every 

transformed contaminant value at each site in order to establish statistical patterns. Long-term 

analysis (1974-1993) consisted of finding an appropriate change point model, comparing its 

efficacy with a single line model and choosing the most appropriate. Ninety percent of the 

analyses required a change point in the model, the most common change points were 1984 and 

1988. Of 169 total analyses 94 % showed significant decrease, 5 % showed an increase, and 1 % 

showed no significant change in the level of the compound. Rising levels were found in Lake 

Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior. Recent trends for total PCB congeners and DDE 

were established by single line regression over three time periods: 1988-1993, 1989-1993, and 

1990-1993. In 82 % of the analyses (n=78) levels showed no statistical change, 9 % showed a 

decrease, and 9 % showed significant increase. Rising levels were found in Lake Huron, Lake 

Michigan, and Lake Superior. Decreasing levels were found in the Niagara River, Lake Erie, and 

Detroit River. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

172 

Pekarik, C. and Weseloh, D. V. 1998. Organochlorine contaminants in herring gull eggs from the 

Great Lakes, 1974-1995: Change point regression analysis and short-term regression. Environ. 

Monit. Assess. 53(1):77-115. 

Rec #: 93 

KEYWORDS: Great Lakes; North America; egg; organochlorines; chlordanes; benzenes; HCB; 

DDTs; HCHs; PCBs; dieldrin; herring gull; Larus argentatus; temporal trends; spatial variations 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The temporal trends (1974-1995) of 11 organochlorine contaminants in herring 

gull (Larus argentatus) eggs from 13 colonies throughout the Great Lakes were statistically 

analyzed using two regression methods on logarithmically transformed data. Change point 

analysis was used to determine if there had been significant year to year fluctuations in 

contaminant levels and/or changes in long-term trends. Short-term regressions were conducted 

on 6 major compounds for two time periods (early 1990s and early 1980s) to compare the rates 

of decline. Overall, change point analyses indicated that for most of the comparisons (75 %) 

there had been significant year to year fluctuations in contaminant levels. They also indicated 

that for most of the comparisons (67 %) the rate of decline after the change point was as fast as 

or faster than before the change point, this pattern was most common for dieldrin and heptachlor 

epoxide at certain locations. In 19 % of the comparisons the rates of decline had slowed or 

stabilized, this was most common for PCB and pentachlorobenzene. In 14 % of the comparisons 

there were no significant temporal trends, this was most common for photomirex and mirex. 

Results for short-term regression showed that out of 78 comparisons for each time period, 5 (6 

%) were declining significantly in the early 1990s and 11 (14 %) were declining significantly in 

the early 1980s. Both types of regression indicated that, for most of the herring gull egg 

contaminant database, recent logarithmic rates of decline were similar to those seen previously in 

the sampling period. For PCB 1254:1260, a group of compounds of particular toxicological 

importance, change point analyses indicated that the logarithmic rates of decline in herring gull 

eggs from western Lake Ontario were slower from 1987-1995 than they were from 1974-1986. 

At both Lake Superior colonies and the Niagara River colony PCB 1254:1260 concentrations 

ceased to decline in the mid-1980s. At the colony in Green Bay, Lake Michigan, PCB 1254:1260 

levels have shown no significant temporal trend since 1976. At the remaining 8 colonies, PCB 

1254:1260 levels continue a logarithmic decline in recent years at the same rate as or faster than 

previously. 

Pekarik, C; Weseloh, D. V; Barrett, G. C.; Simon, M.; Bishop, C. A; and Pettit, K. E. 1998. An 

atlas of contaminants in eggs of fish-eating colonial birds of the Great Lakes (1993-1997). 

Technical Report Series No. 321. Burlington, Ontario, Canada: Canadian Wildlife Service 

Ontario Region. 245 pp. 

Rec #: 520 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; great black-backed gull; 

Larus marinus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; 

organochlorines; dieldrin; HCHs; mirex; chlordanes; OCS; DDTs; benzenes; HCB; PCBs; 

PCDDs; PCDFs; egg; Great Lakes; North America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: During 1993-1997, Canadian Wildlife Service (Ontario Region) collected 1252 

eggs from 32 sites. Four species of fish-eating colonial waterbirds were sampled: Double-crested 

Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus), Herring Gull 

(Larus argentatus), Ring-billed Gull (Larus delawarensis). The purpose was to measure the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

173 

levels of the following compounds: organochlorine pesticides, chlorinated benzenes, 

polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins and furans, lipid and moisture. These data were generated as 

part of a monitoring program started in 1970 to understand the temporal and spatial trends of 

environmental contaminant levels in biota of the Great Lakes. Since the 1970s the levels of most 

chlorinated hydrocarbons have decreased significantly at most colonies on the Great Lakes. A 

regression model that applied two temporal trends to the log-transformed values of most 

organochlorine pesticides and PCB:1254-1260 found that the rates of decline in recent years 

were similar to those seen in the years shortly after sampling began (Di Maio et al., In Press; 

Pekarik and Weseloh, 1998). 

The data from 1993-97 are summarized in two volumes. Volume I contains contaminant data for 

all (4) species summarized by location, and non-coplanar PCB data for Herring Gull eggs from 

14 annual monitoring colonies. Volume II contains contaminant data for all (4) species 

summarized by compound. Both volumes contain sample locations and the means and standard 

deviations or pooled analysis values for organochlorine pesticides, chlorinated benzenes, 

polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxins and furans, lipid and moisture. Additionally, data for mercury 

from Herring Gull eggs collected in 1992 have been listed, since they were inadvertently omitted 

from Pettit et al., l994a; b. The publication of previous years' data has resulted in independent 

statistical analyses and publications of Herring Gull egg contaminant data (Smith, 1995; Stow, 

1995). Within the Canadian Wildlife Service additional analyses have been published on the 

current dataset of contaminant levels in fish-eating birds of the Great Lakes (Hebert et al., 1997.; 

Koster et al., 1997.; Pekarik and Weseloh, 1998.; Ryckman et al., 1998). 

Pettit, K. E.; Bishop, C. A; Weseloh, D. V; and Norstrom R. J. 1994. An atlas of contaminants in 

eggs of fish-eating colonial birds of the Great Lakes (1989-1992). Technical Report Series No. 

193. Burlington, Ontario, Canada: Canadian Wildlife Service Ontario Region. 400 pp. 

Rec #: 367 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; common tern; Sterna hirundo; black-crowned night-heron; 

Nycticorax nycticorax; Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; 

organochlorines; dieldrin; HCHs; mirex; chlordanes; OCS; DDTs; benzenes; HCB; PCBs; 

PCDDs; PCDFs; egg; Great Lakes; North America; temporal trends; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: During 1989-1992, Canadian Wildlife Service (Ontario) collected a total of 1495 

eggs from fish-eating colonial birds from 50 colonies throughout the Great Lakes to measure the 

levels of 86 chlorinated hydrocarbon compounds, and the lipid concentrations present. These 

data were generated as part of a monitoring program started in 1970 to understand the temporal 

and spatial trends in environmental contaminant levels in biota of the Great Lakes. During 1989-

1992, the levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons in colonial waterbird eggs have remained relatively 

stable within colonies across the Great Lakes. This is consistent with trends occurring in the mid1980s in fish-eating colonial bird eggs from the Great Lakes as reported in An atlas of 

contaminants in eggs of mistreating colonial birds of the Great Lakes (1970-1988) Volume I, 

Accounts by Species and An atlas of contaminants in eggs of fish-eating colonial birds of the 

Great Lakes (1970-1988) Volume II, Accounts by Chemical (Bishop et a1., 1992a; 1992b). 

The data from 1989-92 are summarized in two volumes. Volume I contains contaminant data 

summarized by location. Non-coplanar PCB congener levels, patterns and interpretation of these 

patterns are also included in Volume I for Herring Gull eggs from 14 annual monitoring 

colonies. Volume II contains contaminant data summarized by compound analyzed. Both 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

174 

volumes contain sample locations and number of samples collected for each species each year, 

and pooled values or means and standard deviations for organochlorine pesticide, 

polychlorinated biphenyls, dioxin and furan concentrations. 

Pfaffenberger, Bernd; Hühnerfuss, Heinrich; Kallenborn, Roland; Köhler-Guenther, Angela; 

König, Wilfried A.; and Krüner, Günter. 1992. Chromatographic separation of the enantiomers 

of marine pollutants. Part 6: comparison of the enantioselective degradation of αhexachlorocyclohexane in marine biota and water. Chemosphere. 25(5):719-725. 

Rec #: 482 

KEYWORDS: common eider; Somateria mollissima; organochlorines; HCHs; Germany; North 

Sea; Europe; liver; metabolism 

ABSTRACT: The enantiomeric ratios of the chiral marine pollutant α-hexachlorocyclohexane 

[α-HCH] were detected in blue mussels (Mytilus edulis), flounders (Platychthys flesus), common 

eider ducks (Somateria mollissima), and in North Sea water at experimentally sites in the 

German Bight by means of capillary gas chromatography using β-cyclodextrin derivatives as 

chiral stationary phases. Different enzymic degradation pathways are revealed by opposite 

enantioselective enrichments of the α-HCH enantiomers: while in the liver of the common eider 

ducks the preferable degradation of (-)-α-HCH leads to an enrichment of (+)-α-HCH [i.e., (+)-αHCH/(-)-α -HCH ≈ 1.4 - ∞], the enantiomeric ratios measured in the liver samples of flounders 

[(+)-α-HCH/(-)-α-HCH ≈ 0.80 - 0.94], in blue mussels [(+)-α-HCH/(-)-α-HCH ≈ 0.84-0.93] and 

in the North Sea water samples [(+)-α-HCH/(-)-α-HCH ≈ 0.84] imply enzymic processes in the 

course of which common structural elements are preferred represented by (+)-α-HCH. 

Piatt, John F. and Anderson, Paul. 1996. Response of common murres to the Exxon Valdez oil 

spill and long-term changes in the Gulf of Alaska marine ecosystem. Am. Fish Soc. Symp. 

18:720-737. 

Rec #: 17 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; North 

America; USA; AK 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Short-term effects of the 1989 TV Exxon Valdez oil spill on seabirds were 

dramatic and well documented. Seabird populations at sea in the spill zone were immediately 

depressed, and more than 30,000 dead, oiled seabirds were recovered from beaches within 

months of the spill. It is estimated that 250,000 seabirds were killed by oil, of which 74 % were 

murres Uria spp. Based on comparisons of prespill (1970s) and postspill (1989-1994) data, longterm effects on murres attributed to oil pollution included population declines, reduced breeding 

success, and delayed breeding phenology. Populations remained depressed, but breeding success 

and phenology gradually returned to normal levels by 1993. An alternative hypothesis to explain 

these long-term effects is that murres were responding to natural events in their marine 

environment. Reduced flow of the Alaska Coastal Current (ACC) in 1989 may have reduced and 

delayed biological productivity in the ACC. On a broader time scale, marked changes in marine 

fish communities have occurred during the past 20 years. Coincident with cyclical fluctuations in 

seawater temperatures, the abundance of small forage species (e.g., northern pink shrimp 

Pandalus borealis, capelin Mallotus villosus, and Pacific sandfish Trichodon trichodon) declined 

precipitously in the late 1970s while populations of large predatory fish (e.g., walleye pollock 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

175 

Theragra chalcogramma, Pacific cod Gadus macrocephalus, and flatfish) increased 

dramatically. Correspondingly, seabird diets shifted from mostly capelin in the 1970s to mostly 

Pacific sand lance Ammodytes hexapterus and juvenile pollock in the late 1980s. Furthermore, a 

variety of seabirds and marine mammals both inside and outside of the oil spill zone exhibited 

signs of food stress (population declines, reduced productivity, die-offs) throughout the 1980s 

and early 1990s. We conclude that available data are inadequate to distinguish between longterm effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on murres and a natural response of murres to longterm changes in their marine environment. 

Potts, G. R. 1968. Success of eggs of the shag on the Farne Islands, Northumberland, in relation 

to their content of dieldrin and p,p'-DDE. Nature. 217(5135):1282-1284. 

Rec #: 392 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; egg; effects; reproductive success; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; Great Britain; Europe 

ABSTRACT: No significant correlation was found between clutch size or brood size and the 

concentration of either p,p'-DDE or dieldrin in shag, Phalacrocorax aristotelis, eggs from the 

Farne Islands. Total clutch or brood failure was not correlated with the concentration of p,p'-

DDE, but a significant correlation, apparently of the threshold type, was found between the total 

clutch-brood failure and the dieldrin level. No evidence was found for an unusual proportion of 

deaths of chicks at hatching in unsuccessful shag clutches containing 2-3 ppm dieldrin. 

Concentrations of approximately 2.5 ppm dieldrin in the eggs reflected concentrations of 

approximately 9 ppm in the livers of shags of breeding age; no evidence has been found of 

dieldrin poisoning of adult shags from the Farne Islands. Although recent increases in the rate of 

egg breaking in the sparrow hawk (Accipiter nisus), peregrine (Falco peregrinus), and the golden 

eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) have been considered to be due to the sublethal effects of 

organochlorine insecticide poisoning, approximately 33 % of egg breakages in the shag, and 

most cases of repeated breakage, were due to interference by extra females resulting from 

simultaneous polygyny at one nest. 

Quick, M. P. 1993. Suspected hydrocarbon poisoning of swans and guillemots. J. Forensic Sci. 

Soc. 33(3):143-148. 

Rec #: 504 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; hydrocarbons; liver; common murre; Uria aalge; Great 

Britain; Europe 

ABSTRACT: A case of sub-acute hydrocarbon poisoning of swans and several separate 

incidents of suspected chronic hydrocarbon poisoning of guillemots were investigated. The 

birds' tissues were saponified and extracted with pentane and analyzed by gas chromatographymass spectrometry. The residue levels of pristane in the swan tissues and aliphatic hydrocarbons 

in the guillemots' livers are reported and discussed. 

Rattner, Barnett A.; Eroschenko, Victor P.; Fox, Glen A.; Fry, D. Michael; and Gorsline, Jane. 

1984. Avian endocrine responses to environmental pollutants. J. Exp. Zool. 232(3):683-689. 

Rec #: 131 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; adrenal cortex; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; mirex; 

toxicology; gland; oil; reproductive success; Great Lakes; North America; California gull; Larus 

californicus; Japanese quail; Coturnix coturnix; ring dove; Streptopelia risoria; herring gull; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

176 

Larus argentatus; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; Leach's storm petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; 

wedge-tailed shearwater; Puffinus pacificus; American kestrel; Falco sparverius; bobwhite quail; 

Colinus virginianus; dosing study 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Many environmental contaminants are hazardous to populations of wild birds. 

Chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides and industrial pollutants are thought to be responsible for 

population declines of several species of predatory birds through eggshell thinning. Studies have 

demonstrated that these contaminants have estrogenic potency and may affect the functioning of 

the gonadal and thyroidal endocrine subsystems. Petroleum crude oil exerts toxicity externally, 

by oiling of plumage, and internally, by way of ingestion of oil while feeding or preening. 

Extensive ultrastructural damage to the inner zone of the adrenal, diminished adrenal 

responsiveness to adrenocorticotrophic hormone, and reduced corticosterone secretion rate 

suggest that low levels of plasma corticosterone reflect a direct effect of petroleum on the 

adrenal gland. Suppressive effects of oil on the ovary and decreases in circulating prolactin have 

been associated with impaired reproductive function. Large-scale field studies of free-living 

seabirds have confirmed some of the inhibitory effects of oil on reproduction that have been 

observed in laboratory studies. Organophosphorus insecticides, representing the most widely 

used class of pesticides in North America, have been shown to impair reproductive function, 

possibly by altering secretion of luteinizing hormone and progesterone. Relevant areas of future 

research on the effects of contaminants on avian endocrine function are discussed. 

Riget, F. and Dietz, R. 2000. Temporal trends of cadmium and mercury in Greenland marine 

biota. Sci. Total Environ. 245(1-3):49-60. 

Rec #: 434 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; liver; Greenland; North America; metals; Cd; 

Hg; temporal trends; spatial variations; age variations; bioaccumulation; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Data for cadmium and mercury in Greenland marine biota (blue mussels, polar 

cod, shorthorn sculpin, glaucous gull and ringed seals) over a period of 20 years has been 

analyzed in order to assess temporal changes. Most of the comparisons were conducted between 

tissue samples collected in the mid-1980s and mid-1990s. Cadmium data from a few time series 

obtained at reference sites during monitoring of mining activities were also included. No overall 

temporal trends in cadmium or mercury concentrations were found within the 20-years period 

assessed. However, cadmium concentrations in ringed seals tended to increase in the period 

from late-1970s to the mid-1980s. From the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s cadmium 

concentrations in ringed seals decreased again, while mercury concentrations showed a tendency 

to increase in the same period. The observed changes may reflect natural fluctuations caused by 

factors such as a shift in feeding behavior, rather than changes in anthropogenic exposure. 

Riget, F.; Dietz, R.; Johansen, P.; and Asmund, G. 2000. Lead, cadmium, mercury and selenium 

in Greenland marine biota and sediments during AMAP phase 1. Sci. Total Environ. 245(1-3):3-

14. 

Rec #: 435 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; Se; Greenland; North America; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; liver; age variations; bioaccumulation; biomagnification; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Lead, cadmium, mercury and selenium levels in the Greenland marine 

environment from the first phase of the AMAP are presented. Samples were collected in 1994-
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

177 

1995 covering four widely separated regions in Greenland. Samples included sediments, soft 

tissue of blue mussel; and liver of polar cod, shorthorn sculpin, glaucous gull, Iceland gull and 

ringed seal. Concentrations of lead were found to increase with the size of blue mussel, but not 

with the age of gulls or ringed seal. Both cadmium and mercury concentrations were found to 

increase with the size/age of all species. Selenium concentrations decreased with increasing size 

of blue mussel, but increased with the age of gulls and ringed seal. Element levels found are 

within the range of those found in previous studies in Greenland. Relative to global background 

levels, lead levels must be considered low, whereas levels of cadmium, mercury and selenium in 

Greenland marine biota are high. Significant differences in element levels in sediments and 

biota among regions in Greenland were seen in several cases. There was a tendency for the 

highest lead and mercury concentrations to be found in east Greenland, whereas the highest 

cadmium concentrations were found in central west Greenland. However, the geographical 

differences among the media did not show a consistent pattern. 

Risebrough, R. W.; Reiche, P.; Herman, S. G.; Peakall, D. B.; and Kirven, M. N. 1968. 

Polychlorinated biphenyls in the global ecosystem. Nature. 220(5172):109-112. 

Rec #: 529 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; dieldrin; brain; carcass; biomagnification; 

reproductive success; effects; eggshell thickness; toxicology; CA; USA; North America; Great 

Britain; Europe; peregrine falcon; Falco peregrinus

ABSTRACT: Results are given of analyses of peregrine falcons which died from a variety of 

causes shortly after being trapped for falconry. Significant amounts of polychlorinated biphenyls 

(PCB) were present in Arctic peregrines only a few months old, but higher residues were present 

in a second year Arctic bird, and exceptionally high residues were present in an adult trapped in 

California. In 2 birds the total lipid reserves were very low, and in both the brain concentrations 

of DDE and PCB were high, perhaps at toxic levels. Dieldrin concentrations were lower than in 

the peregrines analyzed in Britain, but DDE concentrations were approximately comparable. In 

1968 no pairs of peregrines were observed to hatch or fledge more than a single young, 

compared to 2-4 young in the past. The thickness of fragments of a peregrine eggshell, with its 

membrane, collected in 1968 was 0.24 mm., a decrease of 34 % from the mean thickness of 0.34 

mm. ± 0.015 mm. in 23 eggs collected in the same wilderness region before 1947. In California, 

numbers of breeding peregrines have been reduced by at least 80 % in recent years. Results of 

analyses of marine and terrestrial birds and of 3 species of freshwater fish for PCB and DDT 

content and concentrations show that regional fallout patterns exist. A significant fraction of 

chlorinated hydrocarbons must come from the atmosphere, and air transport best explains the 

presence of PCB in remote areas. Body concentrations of 40 ppm. of p,p'-DDE significantly 

increased the rate of estradiol degradation by the induced hepatic enzymes. On a weight basis 

the PCB preparation had an estradiol-degrading potential approximately 5-fold that of p,p'-DDE 

or tech. DDT. Both DDE and PCB have the capacity to produce sublethal physiological effects 

in birds. The reductions in eggshell thickness and eggshell weight increase the chances of egg 

breakage and water retention, which affects hatching success. 

Risebrough, Robert W.; Menzel, Daniel B.; Martin, D. James; and Olcott, Harold S. 1967. DDT 

residues in Pacific sea birds: A persistent insecticide in marine food chains. Nature. 216:589-590. 

Rec #: 542 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; Pacific Ocean; CA; USA; North America; carcass; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

178 

muscle; brain; liver; fat; Cassin's auklet; Ptychoramphus aleuticus; western gull; Larus 

occidentalis; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

penicillatus; brown pelican; Pelecanus occidentalis; common murre; Uria aalge; ancient 

murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; red phalarope; Phalaropus fulicarius; rhinoceros auklet; 

Cerorhinca monocerata; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; short-tailed shearwater; Puffinus tenuirostris; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Collections of birds, fish, and invertebrates from Pacific Ocean localities were 

analyzed for DDT residues. Residue levels in the resident California sea birds, in nonresident 

(winter migrant) California sea birds, and in approximately 14 marine invertebrates from coastal 

localities between Monterey and Point Arena were tabulated; DDT residue levels in the resident 

California birds were considerably higher than those in the northern migrants. With 8.4-32 ppm 

DDT residues, the shearwaters, strictly pelagic migrants from the southern hemisphere contained 

as much as, or more, pesticide than the local birds. Fish from California coastal waters contained 

more residue (in general, total concentrations were 10-20 % of those in the birds) than other 

Pacific marine fish. The DDT residue levels in the marine invertebrates were lower by a factor 

of 10-50 than those in the fish analyzed. 

Robinson, J.; Richardson, A.; Crabtree, A. N.; Coulson, J. C.; and Potts, G. R. 1967. 

Organochlorine residues in marine organisms. Nature. 214(5095):1307-1311. 

Rec #: 396 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; dieldrin; DDTs; biomagnification; bioaccumulation; age 

variations; elimination; liver; egg; carcass; common eider; Somateria mollissima; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; 

shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; gannet; Sula bassana; sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; roseate tern; Sterna 

dougallii; razorbill; Alca torda; common murre; Uria aalge; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; 

Great Britain; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Analytically significant amounts of p,p'-DDE (I) and dieldrin (II) were found in 

marine organisms. Residues of I and II tended to be greater in marine organisms of the higher 

trophic levels; it did not occur in all food chains. Significant positive correlation usually 

occurred between the concentration of both compounds and the trophic level. The simple food 

chain microplankton → mussels (Mytilus) → eider duck (Somateria mollissima) showed an 

appreciable concentration of II at each stage. The concentration of II in cod (Gadus morhua) 

was less than in the sand eel (Ammodytes). The concentration of II in planktonic crustacea was 

greater than in any fish examined. The concentrations of I and II followed the series 

Phadacrocoracidae > Alcidae > Laridae. II concentrations were not significantly different in the 

eggs of the cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and shag (P. aristotelis). I concentrations were 

significantly greater in the cormorant. The sandwich tern (Sterna sandvicensis) had significantly 

greater amounts of I and II than the common tern (S. hirundo). II concentrations were 

independent of age in the shag and kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla). The concentration found in birds 

is probably in equilibrium between their intake and excretion of insecticide, and the latter is 

probably of more importance in determining the actual concentration present. 

Rocque, Deborah A. and Winker, Kevin. 2004. Biomonitoring of contaminants in birds from two 

trophic levels in the North Pacific. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 23(3):759-766. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

179 

Rec #: 516 

KEYWORDS: metals; As; Cd; Cr; Cu; Hg; Ni; Se; Zn; organochlorines; dieldrin; HCB; DDTs; 

PCBs; chlordanes; stable isotopes; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; red-faced 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax urile; rock sandpiper; Calidris ptilocnemis; liver; muscle; AK; USA; 

Pacific Ocean; North America; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The presence and accumulation of persistent contaminants at high latitudes from 

long-range transport is an important environmental issue. Atmospheric transport has been 

identified as the source of pollutants in several arctic ecosystems and has the potential to 

severely impact high-latitude populations. Elevated levels of contaminants in Aleutian Island 

avifauna have been documented, but the great distance from potential industrial sources and the 

region's complex military history have confounded identification of contaminant origins. We 

sampled bird species across the natural longitudinal transect of the Aleutian Archipelago to test 

three contaminant source hypotheses. We detected patterns in some polychlorinated biphenyl 

congeners and mercury that indicate abandoned military installations as likely local point 

sources. Carbon isotopes were distinct among island groups, enabling us to rule out transfer 

through migratory prey species as a contaminant source. The long-range transport hypothesis 

was supported by significant west-to-east declines in contaminant concentrations for most 

detected organochlorines and some trace metals. Although relatively low at present, 

concentrations may increase in Aleutian fauna as Asian industrialization increases and emitted 

contaminants are atmospherically transported into the region, necessitating continued monitoring 

in this unique ecosystem. 

Ruus, Anders; Sandvik, Morten; Ugland, Karl I.; and Skaare, Janneche U. 2002. Factors 

influencing activities of biotransformation enzymes, concentrations and compositional patterns 

of organochlorine contaminants in members of a marine food web. Aquat. Toxicol. 61(1-2):73-

87. 

Rec #: 360 

KEYWORDS: liver; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; HCHs; HCB; mirex; 

toxicology; enzymes; EROD; CYP1A; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Norway; Europe; age 

variations; effects; bioaccumulation; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs; 34 congeners), ΣDDT 

(p,p'-DDT, o,p'-DDT, p,p'-DDD, o,p'-DDD and p,p'-DDE), chlordanes (ΣCHL; trans-chlordane, 

cis-chlordane, trans-nonachlor, cis-nonachlor and oxychlordane), hexachlorocyclohexanes 

(ΣHCH; α-, β- and γ-isomers), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and mirex was investigated in 

members of a marine food web from the Hvaler and Torbjornskjaer archipelago, south-eastern 

Norway. The species studied were bullrout (Myoxocephalus scorpius), cod (Gadus morhua), 

herring gull (Larus argentatus) and harbor seal (Phoca vitulina). Furthermore, hepatic 

biotransformation enzyme activities (ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD), pentoxyresorufinO-depentylase (PROD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST)) were measured in all species. The 

objectives of the study were to investigate factors causing intraspecies variation in activities of 

biotransformation enzymes, as well as in concentrations and compositional patterns of the 

organochlorines (OCs). High correlations between EROD and PROD activities were found in all 

species, suggesting a single, common catalyst, CYP1A, and render the PROD assay questionable 

as biomarker for CYP2B inducers in marine wildlife. Furthermore, GST activities are shown to 

be dependent on biological factors, such as age (in harbor seal) and sex (in bullrout). In fish, the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

180 

OC concentrations vary between the sexes, likely due to differences in fat deposition strategies 

and possibly sex dimorphism. In seals, concentrations and compositional patterns of the OCs 

vary with age, owing to selective transfer from mother to pup in utero and mainly through 

lactation, but likely also due to age specific xenobiotic metabolizing capacity. 

Ruus, Anders; Ugland, Karl Inne; and Skaare, Janneche Utne. 2002. Influence of trophic position 

on organochlorine concentrations and compositional patterns in a marine food web. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 21(11):2356-2364. 

Rec #: 357 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; liver; muscle; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; 

HCHs; HCB; mirex; stable isotopes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Norway; Europe 

ABSTRACT: The accumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), DDTs (p,p'-DDT [1,1,1-

trichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane], o,p'-DDT [1,1,1-trichloro-2-(2-chlorophenyl)-2-(4-

chlorophenyl)ethane], p,p'-DDD [1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane], o,p'-DDD [1,1-

dichloro-2-(2-chlorophenyl)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)ethane], and p,p'-DDE [1,1-dichloro-2,2-bis(4-

chlorophenyl)ethene]), chlordanes (trans-chlordane, cis-chlordane, trans-nonachlor, cisnonachlor and oxychlordane); hexachlorocyclohexanes (α-, β-, and γ-isomers), 

hexachlorobenzene, and mirex was investigated in a marine food web from southeastern 

Norway. The food web consisted of the polychaete Nereis diversicolor, lesser sandeel 

(Ammodytes tobianus), three species of gobys (Gobiusculus flavescens, Pomatoschistus sp., and 

Gobius niger), bullrout (Myoxocephalus scorpius), cod (Gadus morhua), herring gull (Larus 

argentatus), and harbor seal (Phoca vitulina). The results show that interspecies differences in 

organochlorine (OC) compositional patterns in the food web depend on several factors 

(allometric, biochemical, physiologic, and physicochemical) specific to both the chemicals and 

the organisms. The importance of dietary accumulation and metabolic capacity increases toward 

higher trophic levels, while the OC patterns are to a larger extent detected by the lipophilicity 

and water solubility of the compounds at lower trophic levels. Furthermore, stable nitrogen 

isotopes provided a continuous measure of trophic position, rendering us capable of quantifying 

the increases in the concentrations of sum PCB, sum dichorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), and 

sum chlordane (CHL) and the percentages of highly chlorinated PCBs through the food web. 

The information provided may be important for future modeling of the fate of organochlorine 

contaminants in marine food webs. 

Ryan, John J; DeWailly, Eric; Gilman, Andy; Laliberte, Claire; Ayotte, Pierre; and Rodrigue, 

Jean. 1997. Dioxin-like compounds in fishing people from the lower north shore of the St. 

Lawrence River, Quebec, Canada. Arch. Environ. Health. 52(4):309-316. 

Rec #: 3 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; TEQs; egg; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; common eider; Somateria 

mollissima; Quebec; Canada; North America; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: In this study, investigators assessed exposure to dioxin-like compounds in a 

fishing population that inhabits small coastal communities along the Lower North Shore of the 

St. Lawrence River, Quebec. This population relies heavily on wildlife foods for sustenance. 

Investigators analyzed chemically the most popular marine foods (i.e., fish, crustaceans, sea 

mammals, and sea-bird eggs), and they also obtained 25 human plasma samples from individuals 

in two villages along the river. The mean level of total polychlorinated biphenyls in this 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

181 

population was approximately twice that found in the entire fishing cohort. Plasma levels of 

dioxin-like compounds, expressed as tetrachlorodibenzodioxin toxic equivalent, were 

approximately eight times higher than levels in urban residents. Most of the increase in 

tetrachlorodibenzodioxin toxic equivalents in the selected fish eaters resulted primarily from an 

elevation in polychlorited biphenyls. Concentrations of dioxin-like compounds from the Lower 

North Shore were low in fish and seals, but concentrations were elevated in the egg of sea birds. 

Given that from was also a significant statistical correlation in the entire population between 

human plasma levels and consumption of birds’ eggs -- and not other traditional foods -- much of 

the increased human dose appeared to originate from this one food source. Because there appear 

to be increased, but uncertain, health risks from this elevated body burden, investigators advised 

the residents of the area to avoid consumption of wild birds’ 

eggs (i.e., a food source of minor nutritional importance). 

Ryckman, D. P.; Weseloh, D. V.; Hamr, P.; Fox, G. A.; Collins, B.; Ewins, P. J.; and Norstrom, 

R. J. 1998. Spatial and temporal trends in organochlorine contamination and bill deformities in 

double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) from the Canadian Great Lakes. Environ. 

Monit. Assess. 53(1):169-195. 

Rec #: 110 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Great Lakes; Canada; North 

America; organochlorines; HCB; DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; chlordanes; PCBs; abnormalities; 

eggshell thickness; egg; temporal trends; spatial variations; effects 

ABSTRACT: The levels of organochlorine contaminants (OCs) in the eggs of double-crested 

cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) from the Canadian Great Lakes, Lake Nipigon and Lake-ofthe- Woods were monitored between 1970 and 1995. PCBs and p,p'-DDE were present at the 

highest concentrations. Significant declines in OC concentrations on the Great Lakes were 

observed over this period for Lake Ontario, Lake Superior, Georgian Bay and North Channel but 

not Lake Erie where levels remained relatively stable. In the early 1970s, the greatest OC levels 

were generally observed in cormorant eggs from nesting sites in Georgian Bay and North 

Channel of Lake Huron. Between 1984 and 1995 mirex and PCB levels were consistently 

highest in samples from Lakes Ontario and Erie, respectively. Similar levels of PCDDs and 

PCDFs were observed from all regions of the Canadian Great Lakes in 1989. In general, OC 

levels in cormorant eggs between 1984-1995 were ranked as follows: Lake Erie>Lake 

Ontario>Lake Superior>Lake Huron. In 1995, eggshell thickness in Canadian Great Lakes 

cormorants, ranged from 0.423 to 0.440 mm and was on average only 2.3 % thinner than preDDT era values. Between 1988 and 1996, 31 cormorant chicks with bill defects were observed 

at 16 different colonies (21 % of all colonies surveyed) in Lakes Ontario and Superior, Georgian 

Bay and North Channel, and the main body of Lake Huron. No bill deformities were observed at 

reference sites in northwestern Ontario (Lake Nipigon and Lake-of-the-Woods). For the period 

1988-1996, the prevalence of bill defects in cormorant chicks (0.0-2.8/10,000 chicks) did not 

differ significantly (p >0.05) among most regions in the Canadian Great Lakes. Georgian Bay 

was the only region to show a significant decrease in the prevalence of bill defects between the 

periods 1979-1987 and 1988-1995. 

Ryder, John P. 1974. Organochlorine and mercury residues in gull's eggs from Western Ontario. 

Can. Field. Nat. 88:349-352. 

Rec #: 547 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

182 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; metals; Hg; egg; gull; Ontario; Canada; North America; 

eggshell thickness; effects; herring gull; Larus argentatus; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis

ABSTRACT: Organochlorine (DDE, dieldrin, PCBs) and mercury residues in eggs of Herring 

Gulls (Larus argentatus) and Ring-billed Gulls (L. delawarensis) from western Ontario are 

reported. Concentrations in wet weight (ppm) of DDE and PCBs approximate levels reported 

from aquatic birds in the Canadian prairie provinces. Mercury levels in both species are lower 

than those reported from heavily polluted waters. 

Rüdel, Heinz; Lepper, Peter; Steinhanses, Jürgen; and Schröter-Kermani, Christa. 2003. 

Retrospective monitoring of organotin compounds in marine biota from 1985 to 1999: Results 

from the German Environmental Specimen Bank. Environ. Sci. Technol. 37(9):1731-1738. 

Rec #: 479 

KEYWORDS: organometallics; organotins; Germany; Europe; North Sea; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; egg; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: In archived samples from the Environmental Specimen Bank in Germany, 

organotin compounds, including tributyltin (TBT) and triphenyltin (TPT), as well as their 

degradation products, were quantified. Biota samples from the North Sea and Baltic Sea areas 

were analyzed by gas chromatography/atomic emission detection coupling after extraction and 

Grignard or ethylborate derivatization. TBT and TPT were detected in nearly all samples. A 

decrease of TPT contamination was observed in bladder wrack, common mussels, and eelpout 

muscle tissues in the period 1985-1999. In this period, TPT concentrations in North Sea mussels 

decreased from 98 to 7 ng/g (as organotin cation concentration in wet tissue). Concentrations of 

TBT remained relatively const. with 17 ± 3 ng/g for mussels from a site with nearby marine 

traffic and 8 ± 2 ng/g for a more remote area. The results reflect that TBT is still used as a 

biocide in antifouling paints, whereas the use of TPT as a cotoxicant in such preparations ceased 

in the 1980s. The fact that the use of TBT in antifouling paints was banned in 1991 for small 

boats within the European Community seems not to have resulted in a decrease of TBT levels in 

marine biota. 

Sagerup, Kjetil; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; Skorping, Arne; and Skaare, Janneche Utne. 1998. 

Association between polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations and intestinal nematodes in 

glaucous gulls, Larus hyperboreus, from Bear Island. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:449-451. 

Rec #: 324 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; parasites; PCBs; Svalbard; Norway; Europe; 

liver; intestine; effects 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The relationship between PCB levels and intestinal nematode infection intensities 

was investigated in glaucous gulls from Bear Island. The total PCB concentration (Σ9PCB) in 

liver samples were 15147-292439 ng/g lipid weight The PCB-153 congener is the most 

abundant accounting for 36 % of Σ9PCB. 12 Helminth parasite species were identified in the 

gastrointestinal tract of the gulls. The nematode Paracuaria adunca showed the highest 

prevalence and infected 63 % of the gulls. The trematode Cryptocotyle lingua showed the 

highest intensity with a maximum of 269 individuals in 1 host. The intensity of nematodes (sum 

of all nematodes) was positively correlated to Σ9PCB. The nematodes in the gulls penetrated 

tissues in the pro-ventricle and ventricle area. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

183 

Sagerup, Kjetil; Henriksen, Espen O.; Skaare, Janneche U.; and Gabrielsen, Geir W. 2002. 

Intraspecific variation in trophic feeding levels and organochlorine concentrations in glaucous 

gulls (Larus hyperboreus) from Bjørnøya, the Barents Sea. Ecotoxicology. 11(2):119-125. 

Rec #: 380 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; liver; muscle; 

organochlorines; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; mirex; PCBs; stable isotopes; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Biomagnification contributes to high concentrations of persistent organochlorines 

(OC) in some Arctic vertebrates. Glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) on Bjørnøya in the 

western Barents Sea were studied to compare the intraspecific variation in OC concentration 

with variation in trophic feeding levels, established from ratios of nitrogen isotopes. Liver tissue 

samples from 40 adult glaucous gulls were analyzed for hexachlorobenzene (HCB), 

oxychlordane, p,p'-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and its metabolite p,p'-DDE, mirex, 

and 9 congeners of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB). The ratios of the heavier to lighter isotope 

of carbon (13C/12C) and nitrogen (15N/14N), expressed as δ13C and δ15N, were measured in liver 

and muscle. Hepatic concentrations of the 9 PCB congeners (Σ 9 PCB) ranged from 16 μg/g 

lipid weight to 292 μg/g lipid weight. The δ15N ranged from 14.0 % to 15.3 % in muscle. Seven 

of the 14 OC measured, Σ DDT, and Σ 9 PCB were positively correlated to δ15N from muscle 

tissue. No correlations were found between OC and δ13C. The present results indicate that OC 

concentrations are partly dependent on the foraging strategy of the gull. The r

2

 of the linear 

regressions suggests that up to 18 % of the variation in the OC concentrations could be explained 

by variation in food preference. 

Sagerup, Kjetil; Henriksen, Espen O.; Skorping, Arne; Skaare, Janneche Utne; and Gabrielsen, 

Geir Wing. 2000. Intensity of parasitic nematodes increases with organochlorine levels in the 

glaucous gull. J. Appl. Ecol. 37(3):532-539. 

Rec #: 433 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; DDTs; mirex; 

glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; liver; parasites; effects 

ABSTRACT: Organochlorines probably suppress immune functions in birds and mammals, but 

few field assessments are available. If establishment and(or) survival of parasites is limited by 

host immunity, increased parasite intensities in animals with high organochlorine burdens, such 

as the glaucous gull Larus hyperboreus, would be expected. The authors collected 40 adult 

glaucous gulls on Bear Island in the western Barents Sea. Concentrations of 9 selected 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB; 28, 52, 99, 101, 118, 138, 153, 170, and 180) and 5 chlorinated 

pesticides (hexachlorobenzene, oxychlordane, DDE, DDT, and mirex) were measured in the 

liver. The abundance of 12 species of intestinal helminths, including 1 trematode, 6 cestodes, 4 

nematodes, and 1 acanthocephalan, was detected. After controlling for nutritional condition, no 

single parasite species was significantly associated with concentrations of PCB or chlorinated 

pesticides. However, the intensity of all nematodes grouped together was positively correlated 

with 10 of the 14 organochlorine concentrations measured. The strongest correlations were with 

p,p'-DDT, mirex, Σ9PCB, and PCB congeners 28, 118, 153, 138, 170, and 180. Although 

correlative and collected in the absence of immunological data, these data do not refute the 

hypothesis that organochlorines might affect avian immune function. 

Sanderson, J. Thomas; Norstrom, Ross J.; Elliott, John E.; Hart, Leslie E.; Cheng, Kimberly M.; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

184 

and Bellward, Gail D. 1994. Biological effects of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, 

dibenzofurans, and biphenyls in double-crested cormorant chicks (Phalacrocorax auritus). J. 

Toxicol. Environ. Health. 41(2):247-265. 

Rec #: 87 

KEYWORDS: effects; hydrocarbons; PAHs; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; TEQs; 

toxicology; EROD; cytochrome P450; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; great 

blue heron; Ardea herodias; British Columbia; Great Lakes; Canada; North America; egg 

ABSTRACT: The present project assessed the effect of environmental contamination with 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and biphenyls (PCBs) on 

hepatic microsomal ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activities and morphological 

parameters in matched double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) hatchings from egg 

clutches chosen for chemical analysis. Double-crested cormorant eggs were collected from five 

colonies across Canada, with differing levels of contamination. Levels of contamination 

expressed in sum of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin-toxic equivalents (TCDD-toxic 

equivalents or TEQ, ng/kg egg) were: Saskatchewan, 250; Chain Islands, 672 Christy Islet, 276; 

Crofton, 131; and Lake Ontario, 1606. In the hatchlings, hepatic EROD activities (pmol/min/mg 

protein) were: Saskatchewan, 283; Chain Islands, 516; Christy Islet, 564; Crofton, 391; and Lake 

Ontario, 2250. Hepatic microsomal EROD activity (pmol/min/mg protein) regressed positively 

on TEQ (r2

 = .69; p < .00005; n = 25). Yolk weight (g) regressed negatively on TEQ (r2 = .44; p 

= .00005). Wing length (mm) regressed negatively on PCB-169 (r2 = .28; p = .007). 

Monospecific antibodies raised against rat cytochrome P450 1A1 recognized a protein in the 

hepatic microsomes of the double-crested cormorant, and also in those of the great blue heron 

(Ardea herodias), using immunoblotting. The intensity of the stained band increased with 

increased EROD activity, supporting the assumption that ethoxyresorufin is a suitable substrate 

for avian cytochrome P450 1A1. These results validate the use of avian hepatic microsomal 

EROD activity as an index of cytochrome P450 1A1 induction by environmental levels of 

polychlorinated aromatic hydrocarbons and as a useful screening tool to determine the extent of 

exposure to such chemicals. Furthermore, the induction of cytochrome P450 1A1 observed in the 

cormorant indicates that the Ah receptor-mediated process, by which TCDD and related 

chemicals exert many of their toxicities, has been activated. 

Savinov, Vladimir M.; Gabrielsen, Geir W.; and Savinova, Tatiana N. 2003. Cadmium, zinc, 

copper, arsenic, selenium and mercury in seabirds from the Barents Sea: Levels, inter-specific 

and geographical differences. Sci. Total Environ. 306(1-3):133-158. 

Rec #: 421 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Zn; Cu; As; Se; Hg; muscle; liver; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; 

common murre; Uria aalge; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; black guillemot; Cepphus 

grylle; little auk; Alle alle; razorbill; Alca torda; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king 

eider; Somateria spectabilis; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Trace elements Cd, Zn, Cu, As, Se and Hg were analyzed in muscle and liver of 

Brünnich's guillemot, Common guillemot, Puffin, Black guillemot, Little auk, Razorbill, 

Common eider, King eider, Glaucous gull, Herring gull, Black-legged kittiwake, Northern 

fulmar and Arctic tern collected in 1991-1992 at the main breeding colonies in the Barents Sea. 

The highest levels of the most toxic elements Cd and Hg were found in birds nesting north of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

185 

Spitsbergen. Extremely high levels of As were detected in tissues of all seabird species collected 

at colonies in Chernaya Guba (Novaya Zemlya), where nuclear tests were carried out in the 

1960s. In general, levels of all of the trace elements in the Barents Sea seabirds were similar or 

lower in comparison with those reported for the same seabird species from the other Arctic areas. 

Data on metallothionein concentrations in different seabird species need to be collected in order 

to understand the mechanism of bioaccumulation and possible toxic effects of trace elements in 

Arctic seabirds. 

Savinov, Vladimir M.; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; and Savinova, Tatiana N. 2000. Trace elements in 

seabirds from the Barents and Norwegian seas, 1991-1993. Norsk Polarinstitutt Internrapport Nr. 

5. Troms: Norsk Polarinstitutt. 108 pp. 

Rec #: 47 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Baltic Sea; Barents Sea; Europe; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; herring gull; Larus argentatus; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; glaucous 

gull; Larus hyperboreus; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; little auk; Alle alle; thick-billed murre; 

Uria lomvia; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; 

Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria 

spectabilis; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; metals; 

Cd; Zn; Cu; Mn; Cr; As; Se; Hg; liver; muscle; spatial variations; age variations; gender 

differences; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: The main objective of the project was to study the levels of trace elements 

(including heavy metals) in different seabird species breeding in the Barents Sea area. There are 

limited comparable data on environmental pollutants in seabirds from this area, and this report 

presents such information on trace element levels. The results are a contribution to the Arctic 

Monitoring and Assessment Programme (AMAP). 

Savinova, T. N. 1990. Chemical pollution of the northern seas. Apatity, USSR: Kol. Nauch. 

Tsentr, Akad. Nauk SSSR. 144 pp. 

Rec #: 543 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; Russia; Asia; North Sea; Baltic Sea; 

Finland; Ireland; Great Britain; Europe; Pacific Ocean; CA; ME; VA; USA; Great Lakes; Bay of 

Fundy; Canada; North America; Rissa tridactyla; black-legged kittiwake; Larus argentatus; 

herring gull; Larus fuscus; lesser black-backed gull 

ABSTRACT: The monograph summarizes ecotoxicological and biogeochemical materials on 

the northern seas pollution with chlorinated and petroleum hydrocarbons. There are given some 

data on the bioaccumulation of the above mentioned pollutants in hydrobios and sea birds. The 

problems of the effect of pollutants on the northern seas phytoplankton are also discussed. The 

factors determining the bioaccumulation of pollutants in the liver of fishes are examined. The 

monograph may present a certain interest for biologists, toxicologists, hygienists and the 

environment pollution control experts. Figures - 13, tables - 15, references - 424. 

Savinova, T. N. 1992. The content of pollutants in seabirds from the Barents Sea: Results and 

investigation's perspectives. In: Theoretical Approaches to the Study of Ecosystems at Arctic and 

Subarctic Seas. Apatity, The Kola Scientific Centre Publishing House. 113-116. 

Rec #: 544 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; metals; Cu; Ni; Co; Zn; Mn; herring gull; Larus 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

186 

argentatus; liver; muscle; Barents Sea; Europe 

Savinova, T. N. and Gabrielsen, G. W. 1994. Chlorinated hydrocarbons and heavy metals in 

birds of the Barents Sea. Preprint, Kol'Skij Nauchn. Tsentr Ran, Apatity (Russia). 36 pp. 

Rec #: 65 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; metals; bioaccumulation; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; 

effects 

NOTES: NOT AVAILABLE -SEE 61 for INFO 

ABSTRACT: Data are presented on the content of residual organochlorine pesticides, 

polychlorinated biphenyls and heavy metals in the organs and tissues of 8 species of colonial 

seabirds collected in 1991 from the western coast of Spitsbergen, Bear I., northern Norway coast 

and Franz Josef Land. 

Savinova, T. N.; Polder, A.; Gabrielsen, G. W.; and Skaare, J. U. 1995 . Chlorinated 

hydrocarbons in seabirds from the Barents Sea area. Sci. Total Environ. 160/161:497-504. 

Rec #: 66 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCHs; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; PCBs; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; glaucous gull; Larus 

hyperboreus; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; liver; muscle; fat; brain; spatial variations; temporal 

trends 

ABSTRACT: This study presents preliminary results on the levels of organochlorines (OCs) in 

three seabird species: common eider (Somateria mollissima), kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) and 

glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) from the Barents Sea area, including Frans Josef Land, NyĹlesund, Bjørnøya, and Hornøya, in July-August, 1991. Kittiwake was the only species collected 

at all four sampling areas, and all three species were sampled only at Ny-Ĺlesund. Samples of 

liver, fat, muscle and brain tissue were analyzed for chlorinated pesticides, hexachlorobenzene 

(HCB), hexachlorocyclohexanes (alpha, beta, gamma -HCH), chlordanes (oxychlordane, transnonachlor and heptachlor epoxide), the DDT group (op', pp'-DDT, DDD and DDE) and the 

industrial chemical polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). In all species, the highest OC levels were 

found in fat tissue, followed by liver, muscle and brain. PCBs were the major OC contaminants, 

followed by the DDT group, the chlordane group, HCB and the HCHs. Only low levels of HCHs 

were found. The lowest mean level of capital sigma PCB - sum of concentrations of the 19 

individual congeners (2.8 μg/kg wet weight (w.w.)) - was found in the liver of juvenile common 

eider from Frans Josef Land. The highest mean level of ΣPCB (15980 μg/kg w.w.) was found in 

the fat of adult glaucous gulls from Ny-Ĺlesund. There were no significant geographical trends in 

OC contamination in the species investigated. However, the OC levels in kittiwake were highest 

at Bjørnøya. The OC contamination levels in seabirds from the Barents Sea region are in general 

lower in the 1990s than in past decades. 

Savinova, Tatiana N.; Falk-Petersen, Stig; and Gabrielsen, Geir Wing. 1995. Chemical Pollution 

in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic Marine Ecosystems An Overview of Current Knowledge. NINA 

Fagrapport: Report / The Joint Norwegian-Russian Commission on Environmental Cooperation, 

the Seabird Expert Group, 1. 1995:3. Trondheim: Norsk Institutt for Naturforskning. 68 pp. 

Rec #: 61 

KEYWORDS: review; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; metals; Hg; Cd; As; Zn; Cr; Cu; Pb; Se; 

Ni; egg; muscle; liver; fat; brain; spleen; heart; bone; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

187 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; great black-backed gull; Larus 

marinus; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; little auk; 

Alle alle; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; common murre; 

Uria aalge; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; razorbill; Alca torda; gannet; Sula 

bassana; North Sea; Pacific Ocean; MA; CA; USA; Canada; North America; Faroe Islands; 

Greenland; Atlantic Ocean; Great Lakes; Barents Sea; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Finland; Poland; 

Great Britain; Scotland; Norway; Europe; Russia; Asia; spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: This report is part of a research project in the framework of the NorwegianRussian Environmental Cooperation. The project was initiated in 1991 in order to elucidate the 

present status of environmental contaminants in the arctic marine ecosystem, with special focus 

on seabirds. This report is a part of the AMAP and is intended to review the levels and types of 

chlorinated hydrocarbons and heavy metal contaminants in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic marine 

waters, with reference to the situation in boreal waters. 

Scharenberg, W. 1991. Prefledging terns (Sterna paradisaea, Sterna hirundo) as bioindicators 

for organochlorine residues in the German Wadden Sea. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 

21(1):102-105. 

Rec #: 472 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCHs; HCB; OCS; DDTs; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Germany; Wadden Sea; Europe; carcass; age 

variations; bioaccumulation; biomagnification; effects 

ABSTRACT: Residues of organochlorine chemicals (OC) including polychlorinated biphenyls 

were analyzed in carcasses of young Arctic terns (Sterna paradisaea) and common terns (Sterna 

hirundo) which were collected in 1988 in a breeding colony of the German Wadden Sea. The 

birds were separated into age-groups of 2-14 and 15-27 days old. Most of the chemicals showed 

a higher concentration in younger birds. In contrast, the absolute amount of the chemicals was 

greater or at least equal in older birds. If food contamination is as high as shown in this study, 

the accumulation of chemical hazards in growing terns can only be recognized by measurement 

of the absolute content, because the concentration is diluted by growth effects. In comparison to 

food samples from the same breeding colony, one can recognize an accumulation from one 

trophic level to the next. This study proves that prefledging terns can be accepted as 

bioindicators. Presumably the residues of OC alone did not cause the death of the terns, yet they 

were definitely important stress factors. 

Scott, J. Michael; Wiens, John A.; and Claeys, Robert R. 1975. Organochlorine levels associated 

with a common murre die-off in Oregon. J. Wildl. Manage. 39(2):310-320. 

Rec #: 338 

KEYWORDS: common murre; Uria aalge; muscle; brain; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; 

toxicology; effects; OR; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: During the summer of 1969 an abnormally high mortality of common murres 

(Uria aalge) was observed on the Oregon coast. Autopsy of dead birds suggested that drowning 

was the proximate cause of death. The body weights of dead males collected during the die-off 

period were significantly lower than those of healthy birds collected at the same time or in 

August of the following year. Analyses for chlorinated hydrocarbons revealed an average p,p'-

DDE concentration of 8.7 ppm wet weight in brain tissues of dead birds, whereas the level in 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

188 

healthy birds collected at the same time was 1.1 ppm. The ratio of p,p'-DDE in brain and muscle 

tissues (p,p'-DDE brain/p,p'-DDE muscle) averaged 28 in dead birds collected during the die-off. 

Collections of living birds in the summer of 1970 when there was no die-off indicated an average 

p,p'-DDE level of 0.44 ppm in brain tissues, and brain-to-muscle ratios did not exceed 0.97. 

Brain levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) averaged 4.0 ppm in the dead birds, 3.7 ppm in 

the live birds collected during the dieoff, and 1.1 ppm in the June 1970 sample. All p,p'-DDE 

and PCB levels were considerably less than reported lethal concentrations in other species of 

birds; however, under conditions of environmental stress, the levels recorded for dead birds in 

1969 may have been sufficient to contribute directly or indirectly to mortality through effects on 

metabolism and behavior. 

Seip, Knut Lehre; Sandersen, Erik; Mehlum, Fridtjof; and Ryssdal, Jostein. 1991. Damages to 

seabirds from oil spills: Comparing simulation results and vulnerability indexes. Ecol. Model. 

53(1-2):29-59. 

Rec #: 72 

KEYWORDS: effects; oil; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common murre; Uria 

aalge; common eider; Somateria mollissima

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The present model for estimating oil damage to seabirds is intended as a tool for a 

decision-support system in oil combat planning. The model systematizes the most well-known 

factors which determine seabirds' susceptibility to oil spills and the subsequent recovery of bird 

populations. The model is formulated as a simulation model describing the two-dimensional 

distribution pattern of seabird population on the coast and the two-dimensional spreading of an 

oil slick drifting towards land. Formulations for population dynamics include seabird age 

structure, recruitment, mortality, and migration. We have demonstrated the use of the model by 

applying it to a spill affecting three different seabird populations: kittiwake, Rissa tridactyla; 

common guillemot, Uria aalge; and common eider, Somateria mollissima. Model results are 

compared to the results of an index system ranging seabird species' vulnerability to oil spills. 

Sellström, U.; Kierkegaard, A.; de Wit, C.; Jansson, B.; Bignert, A.; and Olsson, M. 1999. 

Temporal trend studies on polybrominated diphenyl ethers in guillemot egg from the Baltic Sea. 

In: Sellström, U. Determination of Some Polybrominated Flame Retardants in Biota, Sediment, 

and Sewage Sludge. Stockholm: Stockholm University, Ph.D. Dissertation. 10 pp. 

Rec #: 347 

KEYWORDS: PBDEs; egg; common murre; Uria aalge; Baltic Sea; Europe; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Guillemot eggs from the Baltic Sea, sampled between 1969 and 1997 were 

analysed for tetra- and pentabromodiphenyl ethers (2,2',4,4'-tetraBDE (BDE-47), 2,2',4,4',5-

pentaBDE (BDE-99) and 2,2'4,4',6-pentaBDE (BDE-100)). This temporal trend study indicates 

that the concentrations of the polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) compounds increased from 

the 1970s to the 1980s, peaking around the mid to the late 1980s. These peaks are then followed 

by a rapid decrease in concentrations during the rest of the study period. 

Sellström, Ulla; Bignert, Anders; Kierkegaard, Amelie; Häggberg, Lisbeth; de Wit, Cynthia A.; 

Olsson, Mats; and Jansson, Bo. 2003. Temporal trend studies on tetra- and pentabrominated 

diphenyl ethers and hexabromocyclododecane in guillemot egg from the Baltic Sea. Environ. 

Sci. Technol. 37(24):5496-5501. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

189 

Rec #: 494 

KEYWORDS: PBDEs; common murre; Uria aalge; egg; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; temporal 

trends 

ABSTRACT: Guillemot eggs from the Baltic Sea, sampled from 1969 to 2001, were analyzed 

for tetra- and pentabromodiphenyl ethers (BDE-47, BDE-99, BDE-100) and 

hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD). This temporal trend study indicated polybrominated di-Ph 

ether compound concentrations increased from the 1970s to the 1980s and peaked in the mid- to 

late-1980s. These peaks were followed by a rapid decrease in concentrations during the rest of 

the study period, with concentrations of the major BDE congeners <100 ng/g lipid weight at the 

end of the period. This corresponded to <10 % of peak values. HBCD concentrations showed a 

different pattern over time. After a peak in the mid-1970s, followed by a decrease, 

concentrations increased in the later 1980s. In the recent 10-years period, no significant change 

occurred and annual mean concentrations were more or less stable at a higher level vs. the 

beginning of the study period. 

Sellström, Ulla; Jansson, Bo; Kierkegaard, Amelie; de Wit, Cynthia; Odsjö, Tjelvar; and Olsson, 

Mats. 1993. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) in biological samples from the Swedish 

environment. Chemosphere. 26(9):1703-1718. 

Rec #: 348 

KEYWORDS: PBDEs; egg; common murre; Uria aalge; Baltic Sea; Sweden; Europe; temporal 

trends; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Polybrominated diphenyl ethers, PBDE, are widespread contaminants in the 

Swedish environment and are present in both background and industrialised areas. This study 

presents results from analyses of a variety of species from different sampling sites in Sweden. 

The spatial trend along the Swedish coast is similar to that of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) 

and the DDTs. PBDE seem to bio-magnify in fish consumers like grey seal and guillemot (egg). 

The relative amounts of the investigated tetra- and penta-brominated PBDE congeners are 

different in different species and in different areas. The importance of a sampling strategy when 

doing time-trend studies is demonstrated for guillemot eggs. 

Seys, J. and Meire, P. 1997. Oil pollution and seabirds. In: Jauniaux, Thierry; Bouquegneau, Jean 

Marie; Coignoul, Freddy (Eds.). Marine Mammals, Seabirds and Pollution of Marine Systems. 

Bulletin De La Societe Royale Des Sciences De Li. 61-66. 

Rec #: 15 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; effects; North Sea; Great Britain; Europe 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: In many parts of the world oil deposits close to the earth’s surface seep out. This 

natural input (0.25 million tons/year) is only a minor part of the total amount of oil entering the 

world seas (2.5 million tons/year) every year. Transport operations (including tanker- and non 

tanker accidents, cleaning of cargo compartments, deballasting of fuel tanks and bilge water and 

dry dock operations: 0.56 million tons/year), fixed installations (0.18 million tons/year), 

municipal and industrial waste (0.90 million tons/year), urban and river run-off (0.16 m 

tons/year) and atmospheric fall-out (0.30 million tons/year) are the other main sources of oil 

input. Although tanker accidents are the most spectacular way of oil input, the large majority of 

oils in the North Sea originates from "operational" (but illegal) discharges of mainly fuel oils 

from ships. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

190 

Crude oil (petroleum) consists mainly of hydrocarbons, sulfur and smaller amounts of fatty 

acids, nitrogen compounds, vanadium and nickel. The number and position of the molecules in 

the hydrocarbons of crude oil and its refining products, determine the characteristics in terms of 

biodegradability, state, volatility, toxicity Water-soluble components of crude oil and refined 

products include a variety of compounds that are toxic to a wide spectrum of marine plants and 

animals. Weathered oil on a beach causes great damage through its physical properties. 

Birds are directly affected since oil causes the fine structure of the feathers to clog, resulting in 

loss of thermal insulation, and water absorption (leading to hypothermia, illness, drowning). By 

preening their plumage they also ingest oil, causing all kind of pathological effects. 

Oil is the major cause of death of most seabird species in the North Sea and Channel. 

Evidence for specific oiling incidents and for the level of chronic oil pollution can be obtained 

from beached bird surveys. This method is complementary to aerial surveys and a rather cheap 

way to monitor vast areas. The percentage of birds that are oil contaminated (oil-rate) is an 

integrated and useful measure to determine the oil pollution. 

These oil-rates are particularly high in diving seabirds and species spending most of their 

lifespan at sea. Although some local examples of declining oil-rates have demonstrated the effect 

of policy measures, the overall North Sea oil-rates do not seem to have declined substantially the 

last few decades. The 1000-6000 seabirds washing ashore each year on the Belgian coast, have 

oil-rates of over 50 %. 

Sheffield, Steven R.; Matter, John M.; Rattner, Barnett A.; and Guiney, Patrick D. 1998. Fish 

and wildlife species as sentinels of environmental endocrine disruptors. In: Kendall, Ronald J., 

Richard L. Dickerson, John P. Giesy, William P. Suk (Eds.). Principles and Processes for 

Evaluating Endocrine Disruption in Wildlife, Proceedings From Principles and Processes for 

Evaluating Endocrine Disruption in Wildlife; March 1996; Kiawah Island, S. C. Pensacola, FL: 

Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC). 515 Pp. 369-430. 

Rec #: 252 

KEYWORDS: review; North America; CA; WA; USA; Great Lakes; EDCs; organochlorines; 

DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; PCBs; PCDDs; hydrocarbons; PAHs; effects; toxicology; 

cytochrome P450; AHH; EROD; retinol; porphyrin; eggshell thickness; reproductive success; 

western gull; Larus occidentalis; Japanese quail; Coturnix coturnix; double-crested cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax auritus; ring-billed gull; Larus delawarensis; bald eagle; Haliaeetus 

leucocephalus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; black-crowned night-heron; Nycticorax 

nycticorax; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; Forster's tern; Sterna 

forsteri; wedge-tailed shearwater; Puffinus pacificus; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL; NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Much like the caged canary used by miners last century to detect toxic gases in 

underground mines, fish and wildlife species today are still used to monitor environmental 

quality. Many different species have been promoted as sentinels, biomonitors, or bioindicators of 

environmental health hazards. The use of animal sentinel species and sentinel bioassays is 

essential to the idea of environmental biomonitoring as a means of determining possible health 

hazards from exposure to environmental contaminants. Among the most insidious and least 

characterized of contaminants in the environment are chemicals which act to disrupt normal 

endocrine function in organisms. Much attention has recently been paid to potential endocrine 

disruption in the environment, and one of the most important aspects involved in solving this 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

191 

potentially major environmental problem is the use of fish and wildlife species as sentinels of 

exposure and effects of these chemicals. This paper examines the utility of fish and wildlife 

species and bioassays as sentinels of environmental endocrine disruption. Major vertebrate taxa, 

including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fishes, are reviewed for use of species or 

species groups as sentinel species in general and as sentinels of environmental endocrine 

disruption. Overall, there have been many studies using fishes, birds, and mammals, and few 

studies using reptiles and amphibians. In addition, sentinel bioassay endpoints, including residue 

analysis, biochemical, physiological, immunological, behavioral, reproductive, developmental, 

and ecological endpoints are reviewed in general and specifically for endocrine disruption. 

Generally, a suite of different bioassay endpoints appears to be most effective in examining 

endocrine disruption in the environment. Finally, the study of sentinel species and sentinel 

bioassays is a rapidly emerging area in the field of wildlife toxicology, and many different 

directions or future research are discussed. 

Shore, Richard F.; Wright, Julian; Horne, Janice A.; and Sparks, Timothy H. 1999. Polycyclic 

aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) residues in the eggs of coastal-nesting birds from Britain. Mar. 

Pollut. Bull. 38(6):509-513. 

Rec #: 188 

KEYWORDS: Great Britain; Europe; hydrocarbons; PAHs; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; chough; Pyrrhocorax 

pyrrhocorax

ABSTRACT: As part of investigations carried out on the ecological consequences of the 

grounding of the Sea Empress off Milford Haven, Wales, in February 1996, the eggs of a number 

of coastal-breeding birds were analysed for PAHs to determine whether there was contamination 

from the spilled oil. Although no evidence was found of elevated hydrocarbon residues in eggs 

from the area in which the Sea Empress ran ashore, the study provided general data on PAH 

levels in eggs. The aim of this paper is to describe the background levels of PAH contamination 

in eggs of the herring gull Larus argentatus, the cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo, the shag 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis and the chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax, four species that nest on the 

British coast but differ markedly in the extent to which they forage on marine organisms. Thirty 

eggs were collected in the Spring of 1996 and analysed for PAHs. The results of the present 

study suggest that accumulation of background environmental levels of PAHs in eggs by coastal 

nesting birds in at least two areas of Britain is common but is unlikely to be sufficient to cause 

embryotoxic effects. However, it is possible that individuals nesting in more polluted areas and 

species which feed predominantly on prey that accumulate high PAH residues, such as bivalve 

molluscs, may have higher levels of PAH contamination in eggs. Furthermore, assessment of the 

potential embryotoxic effects of PAHs are based on single compound tests and it is known that 

simultaneous exposure to different PAHs can result in additive toxicity. 

Shutt, J. L. 1993. Reproductive success of herring gulls nesting near a bleached kraft pulp mill. 

Organohalogen Compounds. 12:211-214. 

Rec #: 549 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; mirex; dieldrin; oxychlordane; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; 

toxicology; EROD; retinol; porphyrin; herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; carcass; effects; 

reproductive success; pulp mill; Great Lakes; North America 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

192 

ABSTRACT: Exposure to pulp mill effluents has been shown to have various negative impacts 

on aquatic biota. In order to determine the effect of pulp mill effluent on herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus), eggs were collected from effluent-contaminated and control sites in the Great Lakes 

for organochlorine analysis as well as EROD induction and total intracellular porphyrin 

accumulation. Incubating adults were also collected for organochlorine body burdens, hepatic 

EROD, hepatic retinol, retinyl palmitate, plasma retinol, and total highly carboxylated 

porphyrins. Organochlorine contaminant levels were low compared to other Great Lakes sites. 

EROD induction was not elevated above background levels. However, 1991 and 1992, all nests 

followed in the contaminated Jackfish Bay failed to produce any young of fledgling age. Eggs 

from Jackfish Bay and a control site hatched equally well. Body condition indices indicated 

lowered condition for birds nesting in Jackfish Bay compared to other sites in the Great Lakes. 

A possible change in the traditional diet of fish and insects may play a role in these effects. 

Skaare, Janneche Utne. 1998. Environmental pollutants in top predators from the Norwegian 

coast and Arctic - Occurrence, levels and effects. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:397-401. 

Rec #: 325 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Norway; Europe; liver; intestine; 

organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; HCB; HCHs; toxicology; EROD; CYP1A; retinol; 

vitamin A; immunology; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: A review with 41 references is given summarizing results on biologic/toxic 

effects of polychlorinated biphenyls, DDT, chlordanes, HCB, and HCH in marine top predator 

mammals and seabirds from the Norwegian coast and Arctic including effects on the 

immunosystem, reproduction, and biochemical and physiological parameters (i.e. thyroid 

hormones, retinol, EROD activity). 

Skaare Janneche Utne; Bernhoft, Aksel; Derocher, Andrew; Gabrielsen, Geir Wing; Gøksyr, 

Anders; Henriksen, Espen; Larsen, Hans Jørgen; Lie, Elisabet; and Wiig, Øystein. 2000. 

Organochlorines in top predators at Svalbard--occurrence, levels and effects. Toxicol. Lett. 112-

113:103-109. 

Rec #: 321 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; Norway; Svalbard; Europe; liver; intestine; 

PCBs; EROD; CYP1A; retinol; vitamin A; toxicology; effects 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: Alarmingly high polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels have been found in the 

top predators such as glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) and polar bear (Ursus maritimus) at 

Svalbard [Gabrielsen, G.W., Skaare, J.U., Polder, A., Bakken, V., 1995. Chlorinated 

hydrocarbons in glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus). Sci. Total Environ. 160/161, 337-346; 

Bernhoft, A., Skaare, J.U., Wiig, O., 1997. Organochlorines in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) at 

Svalbard. Environ. Pollut. 95, 159-175; Henriksen, E.O., Gabrielsen, G.W., Trudeau, S., 

Wolkers, H., Sagerup, K., Skaare, J.U., 1999. Organochlorines and possible biochemical effects 

in glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) from Bear Island, the Barents Sea. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. (in press). ]. Studies of the possible toxic effects, particularly on the immune system and 

reproduction, of the very high PCB levels in these species are currently being investigated. Data 

obtained in the field (f.i. reproductive success in polar bears and intestinal nematodes in glaucous 

gulls), as well as levels of various biochemical and physiological parameters (f.i. thyroid 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

193 

hormones, retinol, EROD activity, CYP1A, IgG), have been coupled with the PCB levels 

[Skaare, J.U., Wiig, O., Bernhoft, A., 1994. Klorerte organiske miljogifter; Nivaer og effekter i 

isbjorn. Norwegian Polar Institute Reportseries no. 86, 1-23 (in Norwegian); Bernhoft, A., 

Skaare, J.U., Wiig, O., 1997. Organochlorines in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) at Svalbard. 

Environ. Pollut. 95, 159-175; Bernhoft, A., Skaare, J.U., Wiig, O., Derocher, A.E., Larsen, H.J., 

2000. Possible immunotoxic effects of organochlorines in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) at 

Svalbard (in press); Henriksen, E.O., Gabrielsen, G.W., Skaare, J.U., Skjegstad, N., Jensen, 

B.M., 1998a. Relationship between PCB levels, hepatic EROD activity and plasma retinol in 

glaucous gull, Larus hyperboreus. Marine Environ. Res. 46, 45-49; Henriksen, E.O., Gabrielsen, 

G.W., Trudeau, S., Wolkers, H., Sagerup, K., Skaare, J.U., 1999. Organochlorines and possible 

biochemical effects in glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus) from Bear Island, the Barents Sea. 

Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. (in press); Sagerup, K., Gabrielsen, G.W., Skorping, A., 

Skaare, J.U., 1998. Association between PCB concentrations and intestinal nematodes in glaucou 

gulls, Larus hyperboreus, from Bear Island. Organohalogen compounds 39, 449-451; Skaare, 

J.U., Wiig, O., Bernhoft, A., 1994. Klorerte organiske miljogifter; Nivaer og effekter i isbjorn. 

Norwegian Polar Institute Reportseries no. 86, 1-23. (in Norwegian)]. 

Somers, J. D.; Goski, B. C.; Barbeau, J. M.; and Barrett, M. W. 1993. Accumulation of 

organochlorine contaminants in double-crested cormorants. Environ. Pollut. 80(1):17-23. 

Rec #: 404 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; HCB; HCHs; chlordanes; dieldrin; endrin; mirex; DDTs; 

PCBs; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; egg; fat; feather; Alberta; 

Saskatchewan; Canada; North America; effects; reproductive success; eggshell thickness; 

bioaccumulation; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Cormorant eggs and lipid samples from juvenile cormorants were analyzed for 14 

organochlorine contaminants. Low concentrations (geometric mean <0.05 μg/g) of HCB, 

lindane, oxychlordane, heptachlor epoxide, dieldrin, endrin, mirex, DDD, and DDT in eggs 

primarily reflected the wintering-ground origin of organochlorine contaminants. Overall 

geometric mean concentrations of DDE and PCBs in cormorant eggs were 3.90 and 2.22 μg/g 

egg, respectfully, and would not affect reproduction or eggshell thickness. Eggshells averaged 

0.44 mm in thickness and no correlation (r2

 = 0.17) with log-transformed DDE residues in 

cormorant eggs was evident. Only DDE and PCBs were detected in lipid samples from 5- to 8-

wk-old cormorants (geometric mean approximately 1.0 μg/g lipid for each compound). The 

PCB:DDE ratios in cormorant lipid from some individual colonies were 2-3.5 times greater than 

the ratio in eggs from the same colony, suggesting an accumulation of PCBs related to local diet. 

Juvenile cormorants might serve as regional indicators of chemical residue contamination in 

Alberta, and provide a temporal perspective on changes in contaminant burdens in aquatic 

ecosystems. 

Spear, Philip A.; Bourbonnais, Diane H.; Norstrom, Ross J.; and Moon, Thomas W. 1990. Yolk 

retinoids (Vitamin A) in eggs of the herring gull and correlations with polychlorinated dibenzop-dioxins and dibenzofurans. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 9(8):1053-1061. 

Rec #: 230 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; hydrocarbons; PAHs; TEQs; 

bioaccumulation; yolk; egg; retinol; vitamin A; toxicology; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

194 

Lakes; North America 

ABSTRACT: Little is known of the combined effects associated with chronic, low-level 

exposure of wildlife to the polyhalogenated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDD), dibenzofurans (PCDF), 

certain biphenyls and other related compounds. To examine possible effects upon egg yolk 

retinoids, herring gull (Larus argentatus) eggs were collected at early (i.e., days 2-12) and late 

(i.e., approximately day 20) phases of incubation. Analysis of egg yolks by reversed-phase highperformance liquid chromatography revealed compounds that comigrated with all-trans-retinol 

and all-trans-retinyl palmitate standards. The retinol concentration and the molar ratio of retinol 

to retinyl palmitate changed significantly between the early and late phases of incubation. Within 

the 2- to 12-d period of incubation, however, retinoid values were constant. Gull eggs were 

collected from two breeding colonies on the Great Lakes in 1986 and from five colonies in 1987. 

Significant correlations existed between the molar ratio of retinoids and 2,3,7,8-TCDD 

concentration, toxic equivalents of PCDDs and PCDFs and the sum of PCDD and PCDF 

concentrations. 

Speich, Steven M.; Calambokidas, John; Shea, David W.; Peard, John; Witter, Michael; and Fry, 

D. Michael. 1992. Eggshell thinning and organochlorine contaminants in western Washington 

waterbirds. Colonial Waterbirds. 15(1):103-112. 

Rec #: 532 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; egg; eggshell thickness; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; pigeon 

guillemot; Cepphus columba; great blue heron; Ardea herodias; glaucous-winged gull; Larus 

glaucescens; WA; USA; North America; temporal trends; spatial variations; effects 

ABSTRACT: Within the Puget Sound, Washington, marine environment there are urbanindustrial areas with a known variety of pollutants present, including PCBs and DDT/DDE. In 

1984 we studied five species if seabirds for effects of pollutants at urban-industrial sites and in 

more remote areas of western Washington. No significant thinning was observed in the eggs of 

Double-crested and Pelagic Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus and P. pelagicus), all taken in 

remote areas. The same was true of Pigeon Guillemot (Cepphus columba) eggs taken in Puget 

Sound. Significant average eggshell thinning (to 13 %) was observed in eggs of Great Blue 

Herons (Ardea herodias) from heronries near agricultural areas. Samples from near urbanindustrial areas showed less average thinning (5-7 %). The generally low average concentrations 

of total DDT (0.35-2.22 μg/g, wet weight) is heron eggs probably reflect local contamination 

from agricultural areas and wind drift from elsewhere. Higher average concentrations of PCBs its 

heron eggs were in those from Seattle (15.58 μg/g) and Tacoma (5.46 μg/g), the most 

industrially developed parts of Puget Sound. The largest average amounts of thinning (7-9 %) in 

Glaucous-winged gull (Larus glaucescens) eggs were for colonies in or near the urban-industrial 

areas of Puget Sound. Average shell thinning in eggs from the remote area colony was less (2 

%). Concentrations of total DDT in eggs (0.49-1.19 μg/g) do not account for the amount of 

thinning observed. The levels of the contaminants and the degree of eggshell thinning observed 

in the study species are all currently below levels associated with reproductive impairment in 

other studies. There is no current or historical evidence of significant pollution related 

impairment of reproduction in the study species in western Washington. 

Stalling, D. L.; Norstrom, R. J.; Smith, L. M.; and Simon, M. 1985. Patterns of PCDD, PCDF, 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

195 

and PCB contamination in Great Lakes fish and birds and their characterization by principal 

components analysis. Chemosphere. 14(6-7):627-643. 

Rec #: 224 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; Great Lakes; WI; USA; North 

America; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

Forster's tern; Sterna forsteri; egg; carcass; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Contamination of the Great Lakes with polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins 

(PCDDs), dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and biphenyls (PCBs) has created concern because of the 

adverse effects of these chemicals on fish and wildlife. Concerns about these residues are based 

on the observations that PCDDs and PCDFs in fish and birds are composed primarily of the 

highly toxic 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro-dibenzofuran 

(TCDF) and other 2,3,7,8-chlorine substitute penta- and hexa-chlorodibenzo-p-dioxins and -

furans. The concentrations of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in fish and birds are greatest in regions where 

chlorinated organic chemicals are manufactured or near hazardous waste sites. 

Stepanova, Ludmila I.; Glaser, Vadim M.; Savinova, Tatiana I.; Kotelevtsev, Sergey V.; and 

Savva, Demetris. 1999. Accumulation of mutagenic xenobiotics in fresh water (Lake Baikal) and 

marine (Hornøya Island) ecosystems. Ecotoxicology. 8(2):83-96. 

Rec #: 457 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Europe; Russia; Asia; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; pintail; Anas 

acuta; shoveler; Anas clypeata; tufted duck; Aythya fuligula; pochard; Aythya ferina; grey heron; 

Ardea cinerea; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus; black-headed gull; 

Larus ridibundus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; tree sparrow; 

Passer montanus; Daurian redstart; Phoenicurus auroreus; common pigeon; Columba livia; 

black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; egg; liver; toxicology; biomagnification; effects; 

enzymes; metabolism 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: extracts from tissues of a wide range of aquatic organisms (plants, plankton, 

decapods, molluscs, fish, Baikal seals, fish-eating birds and their eggs) from Lake Baikal and 

from the Selenga River estuary, and tissue extracts of birds breeding on Hornøya Island 

(northern Norway) were assayed for mutagenicity using the Ames Salmonella/microsome test. 

Cytochrome P450 activity and enzymes of phase II of detoxification were also studied in the liver 

of fish and birds. Evidence was found for accumulation of mutagens in the food chain. 

Relationship of bioaccumulation to levels of enzyme activity possessing both detoxification and 

activation functions is discussed in the cases of fish and birds. Accumulation of mutagens 

depended on the activity and level of induction of enzymes providing detoxification and 

metabolic activation in liver of fish and birds. 

Stewart, F. M.; Phillips, R. A.; Catry, P.; and Furness, R. W. 1997. Influence of species, age, and 

diet on mercury concentrations in Shetland seabirds. Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. 151:237-244. 

Rec #: 295 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius parasiticus; great skua; Catharacta 

skua; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; common murre; 

Uria aalge; Shetland; Great Britain; Europe; feather; age variations; bioaccumulation; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Chick down, chick feathers and feathers from adults of 5 seabird species (Arctic 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

196 

skua Stercorarius parasiticus, great skua Catharacta skua, Arctic tern Sterna paradisaea, 

kittiwake Rissa tridactyla and common guillemot Uria aalge) were analysed for mercury. 

Individual female Arctic and great skuas' body feather mercury concentrations correlated with 

concentrations in their chicks' down, but not feathers (Arctic skua: r = 0.64; great skua: r = 0.66). 

This demonstrated that mercury in chick down originated from the egg, and that mercury in the 

egg and in the adult females' plumage could have the same dietary source. Inter-specific 

differences in mercury concentrations were found for all age classes sampled, and these could be 

explained partly in terms of dietary specialization, although physiological variations may also be 

important. All 3 age classes of great skua showed a direct increase in mercury with increasing 

proportion of bird meat in the diet of individual pairs. in kittiwake, Arctic skua, and great skua, 

adults had higher mercury concentrations than chicks and chick down had higher concentrations 

than chick feathers. However, in 2 species (Arctic terns and guillemots) chick down had higher 

concentrations than adult feathers. Chick down could be sampled for mercury content as an 

alternative to using eggs in national biomonitoring schemes. Feathered chicks could be sampled 

to determine mercury availability around the breeding colony between hatching and fledging. 

Stewart, F. M.; Thompson, D. R.; Furness, R. W.; and Harrison, N. 1994. Seasonal variation in 

heavy metal levels in tissues of common guillemots, Uria aalge, from northwest Scotland. Arch. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 27(2):168-175. 

Rec #: 59 

KEYWORDS: effects; toxicology; seasonal variations; biomagnification; common murre; Uria 

aalge; metals; Hg; Cd; Zn; Cu; liver; kidney; muscle; Scotland; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Mercury, cadmium, zinc, and copper concentrations were analyzed in three 

samples of common guillemot (in April, June and November). Levels measured were uniformly 

low, and not enough to have any toxic effects. Adult guillemots had significantly more cadmium 

in their livers and kidneys than juveniles, with juvenile levels ranging from 25 % to 89 % of 

adult levels. Mercury concentrations in liver and kidney were also higher in adults. Juvenile 

levels represented from 80 % to 94 % of adults, but there were no age differences in feather and 

muscle mercury. Mercury levels declined throughout the year in internal tissues from April 

through June to November. There was a strong seasonal fluctuation in cadmium levels in liver 

and kidney, rising significantly between April and June and declining again from June to 

November. These changes were apparent in both adult and juvenile birds. The influences of 

seasonal processes (namely breeding and moult) and seasonal dietary differences as causative 

factors in the changes in metal burdens are discussed. These findings have implications for the 

use of seabirds as monitors of heavy metals in the marine environment. 

Stickel, Lucille F. and Dieter, Michael P. 1979. Ecological and physiological /toxicological 

effects of petroleum on aquatic birds: A summary of research activities FY 76 through FY 78. 

Biol. Ser. Program Fish. Wildl. Serv. (U.S.). 14 pp. 

Rec #: 71 

KEYWORDS: effects; oil; reproductive success; toxicology; gender differences; 

bioaccumulation; elimination; abnormalities; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; common eider; 

Somateria mollissima; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; laughing gull; Larus atricilla; 

Louisiana heron; Egretta tricolor; sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The physiological and ecological effects of oil on waterbirds were examined in a 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

197 

series of laboratory and field experiments. Chemical methodology was developed in support of 

these studies. Research conducted from 1 July 1975 to 30 September 1978 by the US Fish and 

Wildlife Service about the effects of petroleum on aquatic birds is summarized. The following 

assessments were made: effects of oiling on hatchability of eggs; effects of oil ingestion on 

physiological condition and survival of birds; effects of oil ingestion on reproduction in birds; 

accumulation and loss of oil by birds; and development of analytical methods for identification 

and quantification of oil breakdown products in tissues and eggs of ducks. 

Stout, Jordan H.; Trust, Kimberly A.; Cochrane, Jean F.; Suydam, Robert S.; and Quakenbush, 

Lori T. 2002. Environmental contaminants in four eider species from Alaska and arctic Russia. 

Environ. Pollut. 119(2):215-226. 

Rec #: 343 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; Russia; Asia; metals; As; B; Cd; Cr; Cu; Fe; Hg; Mg; 

Mn; Mo; Se; Sr; Zn; organochlorines; HCB; PCBs; dieldrin; chlordanes; DDTs; toxaphene; 

benzenes; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; spectacled 

eider; Somateria fischeri; Steller's eider; Polysticta stelleri; kidney; liver; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Population declines in four species of eider; common (Somateria mollissima), 

king (Somateria spectabilis), spectacled (Somateria fischeri) and Steller's (Polysticta stelleri), 

have raised concerns about exposure to contaminants. Livers and kidney tissues were collected 

from eiders in Alaska and Russia for organic and elemental analyses. Results showed that 

organochlorine and many elemental levels were below toxic thresholds; however, in many cases, 

cadmium, copper, lead and selenium appeared high relative to other waterfowl and may warrant 

concern. With the exception of lead, local anthropogenic sources for these elements are not 

known. Although adverse physiological responses have not been documented in eiders, these 

four elements cannot be ruled out as contaminants of potential concern for some eider species. 

Stow, Craig A. 1995. Great Lakes herring gull egg PCB concentrations indicate approximate 

steady-state conditions. Environ. Sci. Technol. 29(11):2893-2897. 

Rec #: 95 

KEYWORDS: Great Lakes; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; egg; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; temporal trends 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: PCB concentrations in Great Lakes herring gull eggs exhibited decreases 

following the imposition of regulations banning PCB manufacture. However, gull egg 

concentrations in Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Ontario now appear to have stabilized 

or slightly increased. Concentrations in Lake Erie gull eggs still appear to be decreasing, though 

the variability in these data may limit the ability to differentiate trend changes until more data are 

available. This pattern is consistent with previously reported findings of stabilizing PCB 

concentrations in Great Lakes fishes and suggests that future improvements will be slow and 

difficult to discern. 

Strauch, J. G. Jr. 1980. Birds. In: Environmental Assessment of the Alaskan Continental Shelf. 

Northeast Gulf of Alaska Interim Synthesis Report. Science Applications, Inc., Boulder, CO 

80301, USA. 

Rec #: 147 

KEYWORDS: oil; effects; AK; USA; North America 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

198 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The distribution of suitable breeding areas and the seasonal variation in the food 

supply are probably the major selective forces on the breeding biology of marine birds. Two 

kinds of hazards to bird populations in the Kodiak area can result from petroleum development: 

contamination of the environment by oil and disturbance by humans. The effects of oil pollution 

on birds may be direct fouling of the plumage by floating oil or indirect due to being ingested 

during feeding or preening. Another indirect effect is contamination of their prey and of the food 

source of their prey. 

Struger, J.; Elliott, J. E.; and Weseloh, D. V. 1987. Metals and essential elements in herring 

gulls from the Great Lakes, 1983. J. Great Lakes Res. 13(1):43-55. 

Rec #: 85 

KEYWORDS: bioaccumulation; age variations; spatial variations; metals; effects; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; Great Lakes; North America; liver; kidney; feather; bone; Ag; Al; Ba; Ca; Cd; 

Co; Cr; Cu; Fe; Hg; K; Mg; Mn; Mo; Na; Ni; P; Pb; Sr; Th; Ti; V; Zn; Zr 

ABSTRACT: Adult and prefledged herring gulls (Larus argentatus) were collected from one 

location each in Lakes Ontario, Erie, Huron, and Superior. Composite samples of liver, kidney, 

and feather were analyzed for 24 elements and composite samples of bone for 22 elements. After 

consideration of quality assurance results, concentrations of 16 elements (Al, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, 

Hg, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, Pb, Sr, Ti, Zn) in liver, kidney, and feather were accepted for 

presentation while 6 elements were accepted from bone (Ca, Cd, Hg, P, Pb, Zn). Only lead, 

cadmium, and mercury values were of toxicological interest. Data on other trace elements are 

presented as baseline values among locations for each tissue and age class. Concentrations of Cd, 

Pb, and Hg were higher in adults than in prefledged young. Metal levels varied among different 

tissues with Cd highest in kidney (2.16 μg/g; Hamilton Harbour, Lake Ontario), Pb highest in 

bone (30.0 μg/g; Double Island, Lake Huron), and Hg highest in feather (6.11 μg/g; Middle 

Island, Lake Erie). 

Struger, J.; Weseloh, D. V.; Mineau, P.; and Hallett, D. J. 1983. Levels and trends of 

organochlorines in herring gulls in the Great Lakes, 1974-1981. Proceedings of the 26th 

Conference on Great Lakes Research. May 23-27, 1983, State University of New York at 

Oswego. 39 pp. 

Rec #: 171 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; HCB; mirex; PCBs; dieldrin; egg; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; North America; Great Lakes; temporal trends 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: Levels of major organochlorine residues found in the eggs of herring gulls (Larus 

argentatus) are reported for two colonies from each of Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie and Ontario 

from 1974 to 1981. Levels of DDE, DDT, HCB, Mirex and PCBs were greatest in Lake Ontario. 

Dieldrin levels were the highest in Lake Superior. Significant declines occurred in levels of 

DDT, Mirex, PCBs, DDE, Dieldrin and HCB for many colonies between 1974 and 1981. 

However, between 1980 and 1981, there were significant increases in levels of PCBs, Mirex, 

DDE and HCB on some colonies, especially Snake Island in Lake Ontario. During the same 

period, none of these compounds decreased significantly on any of the monitor colonies. These 

figures may indicate that the declining residue levels in herring gulls during the last six years 

have begun to level off. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

199 

Sydeman, William J. and Jarman, Walter M. 1998. Trace metals in seabirds, Steller sea lion, and 

forage fish and zooplankton from Central California. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 36(10):828-832. 

Rec #: 339 

KEYWORDS: biomagnification; metals; Al; Cr; Fe; Cu; Zn; As; Se; Ag; Cd; Hg; egg; common 

murre; Uria aalge; Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax penicillatus; rhinoceros auklet; 

Cerorhinca monocerata; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; CA; USA; North America 

ABSTRACT: We studied concentrations of the trace metals, aluminum (Al), chromium (Cr), 

iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), selenium (Se), silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd), and 

mercury (Hg), in krill (Euphausia pacifica and Thysanoessa spinifera), two species of fish 

(short-bellied rockfish Sebastes jordani and northern anchovy Engraulis mordax), four species of 

marine bird (Common Murre Uria aalge, Brandt's Cormorant Phalacrocorax penicillatus, 

Rhinoceros Auklet Cerorhinca monocerata , and Pigeon Guillemot Cepphus columba ) and a 

pinniped, (Steller sea lion Eumetopias jubatus) from the Gulf of the Farallones, central 

California in 1993. Geometric mean levels of some trace elements in Steller sea lions were 

elevated (Cu, 91.0 mg/kg dry weight; Hg, 19.0 mg/kg; Se, 4.1 mg/kg). Levels of Hg in Pigeon 

Guillemot (3.5 mg/kg) were also elevated. Mercury increased whereas Pb decreased with 

increasing trophic level in the Gulf of the Farallones food web. Selenium levels were highest for 

krill and sea lions, and intermediate for fish and birds occupying mid trophic levels. Results 

indicate little to relatively high trace metal contamination of upper trophic level marine wildlife 

in the central California coastal marine ecosystem. 

Szaro, Robert C.; Coon, Nancy C.; and Kolbe, Elizabeth. 1979. Pesticide and PCB of common 

eider, herring gull, and great black-backed gull eggs. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 22(3):394-

399. 

Rec #: 535 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; chlordanes; toxaphene; HCB; mirex; ME; VA; 

USA; North America; egg; common eider; Somateria mollissima; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; eggshell thickness; reproductive success; effects; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: All but 1 common eider egg collected on the southeastern coast of Maine 

contained detectable residues of DDE (I) [72-55-9]. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were 

detected in all eggs. No other organochlorine pesticides were detected. There were no 

significant differences in the residue levels of DDT [50-29-3] and its metabolites or PCBs in the 

herring gull eggs collected in Maine and Northern Virginia. However, all were significantly 

greater than the residues in common eider eggs. Great black-backed gull eggs contained 

significantly more I and PCBs than herring gull eggs from either Maine or Virginia. The former 

birds also showed low levels of several other pesticides. The differences in pesticide burdens in 

the 3 species appear to be related to their feeding habits. None of the residues were high enough 

to cause any apparent reproductive problems. 

Särkkä, Jukka; Hattula, Marja-Liisa; Janatuinen, Jorma; Paasivirta, Jaakko; and Palokangas, 

Risto. 1978 . Chlorinated hydrocarbons and mercury in birds of lake Paijanne, Finland - 1972-

1974. Pestic. Monit. J. 12:26-34. 

Rec #: 530 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; dieldrin; muscle; liver; 

Finland; Europe; spatial variations; biomagnification; temporal trends; gender differences; Arctic 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

200 

loon; Gavia arctica

ABSTRACT: The levels of Hg, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), DDT (I) [50-29-3] and its 

analogs, lindane [58-89-9], and dieldrin [60-57-1] were examined in aquatic birds nesting on 

the shores of Lake Paijanne, the 2nd largest lake in Finland, which is polluted by a woodprocessing industry and urban sewages. The primary food of the 10 species examined was fish. 

In muscle of approximately 350 individuals, the highest average residues were PCBs; in livers, 

Hg was the highest. Lindane was found in some individuals; dieldrin appeared in none. The 

differences among levels in 1972, 1973, and 1974 were not significant. Some regional 

differences were found, particularly for Hg. Some PCB contamination was observed near the 

town of Jyvaskyla. I was distributed evenly. A stronger correlation existed between residues of 

PCBs and I than between residues of any other compounds. In some gulls, males had higher 

average residues than females. The I:PCB ratio generally corresponded to that of the North 

Atlantic Ocean, but the difference among species was great. Higher Hg, PCB, and I values 

existed in livers than in muscles. Black-throated divers had the highest Hg residues; in herring 

gulls, PCBs and I were highest. The levels generally correspond to those found in other studies. 

Tanaka, Hiroyuki. 1996. PCBs and drug-metabolizing enzymes in seabirds. Kankyo Kagaku. 

6(4):559-565. 

Rec #: 453 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; laysan albatross; Diomedea immutabilis; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; short-tailed shearwater; Puffinus 

tenuirostris; pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius pomarinus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; 

red-legged kittiwake; Rissa brevirostris; muscle; liver; toxicology; EROD; AHH; enzymes; 

cytochrome P450; Pacific Ocean; Asia; effects 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of PCBs and activities of hepatic drug-metabolizing enzymes 

were measured in seven species of seabirds including Laysan Albatross (Diomedea immutabilis), 

Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis), Sooty Shearwater (Puffinus griseus), Short-tailed 

Shearwater (P. tenuirostris), Pomarine Jaeger (Stercorarius pomarinus), Black-legged Kittiwake 

(Larus tridactyla), and Red-legged Kittiwake (L. brevirostris). PCB concentrations in pectoral 

muscle ranged from 0.010 to 2.8 μg g

-1. Twenty six PCB components, mainly IUPAC number 

156, 118, 138, 180, and 99 were detected. The combined concentration of these five compounds 

accounted for more than 70 % of total PCB concentration. Cytochrome P450 contents ranged 

from 0.21 to 0.53 nmol mg-1 protein. The ranges of activities (nmol product formed min-1

 mg

-1 

protein) of three drug-metabolizing enzymes, 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD), 

benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase (AHH) and aldrin epoxidase (ALDE) in liver microsomes were 

0.08-1.20, 0.01-0.36 and 0.11-1.63, respectively The relation between these activities and PCB 

concentrations were analyzed by multiple regression analysis. 

Tasker, Mark L. and Becker, Peter H. 1992. Influences of human activities on seabird 

populations in the North Sea. Neth. J. Aquat. Ecol. 26(1):59-73. 

Rec #: 121 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; North Sea; Europe; egg; red-throated loon; Gavia stellata; 

northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; storm-petrel; 

Hydrobates pelagicus; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; gannet; Sula bassana; 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; parasitic jaeger; Stercorarius 

parasiticus; great skua; Catharacta skua; Mediterranean gull; Larus melanocephalus; black-
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

201 

headed gull; Larus ridibundus; common gull; Larus canus; lesser black-backed gull; Larus 

fuscus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; black-legged 

kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; gull-billed tern; Sterna nilotica; sandwich tern; Sterna sandvicensis; 

common tern; Sterna hirundo; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; roseate tern; Sterna dougallii; 

little tern; Sterna albifrons; common murre; Uria aalge; razorbill; Alca torda; black guillemot; 

Cepphus grylle; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; reproductive success; metals; Hg; 

organochlorines; HCB; OCS; HCHs; DDTs; PCBs 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: This paper describes the North Sea's seabird resource, which is of great 

international importance. It reviews the significance of human activities on seabirds; these are 

persecution, fishing, eutrophication, chemical pollution, introduction of alien predators, rising 

sea level, and oil pollution. The paper speculates on future trends. Some suggestions to reduce 

human pressures, to use seabirds as monitors of the marine environment and to conserve their 

populations more effectively are made. 

Teeple, Stanley M. 1977. Reproductive success of herring gulls nesting on Brothers Island, Lake 

Ontario, in 1973. Can. Field Nat. 91(2):148-157. 

Rec #: 521 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Great Lakes; North 

America; reproductive success 

ABSTRACT: Breeding success and causes of breeding failure were assessed in 1973 in a 

Herring Gull colony of 34 pairs in eastern Lake Ontario. Breeding synchrony was normal, 13 

pairs laid repeat clutches, but 77 % of all eggs laid failed to hatch. The number of chicks fledged 

per pair averaged at least 0.06 but not more than 0.18, an exceptionally low result. Geometric 

mean concentrations of DDE and PCBs in 15 eggs that failed to hatch were 134 and 420 ppm dry 

weight. Concentrations of dieldrin, p,p’DDD, p,p’DDT, heptachlor epoxide, β-benzene 

hexachloride, hexachlorobenzene, and mercury were each less than 6 ppm. Arithmetic mean 

shell thickness of 13 of those 15 eggs was 0.339 mm, and mean thickness index of 11 of those 13 

was 1.60; both are low values. Pathological examinations and analyses for organochlorine 

pesticides and PCBs in brains were conducted on 12 chicks that died. For 11 of the 12, no clear 

cause of death could be determined. A general association was established between high 

organochlorine levels and the low breeding success. 

Ternes, W. and Russel, H. A. 1986. Distribution of the heavy metals lead, cadmium, and 

mercury in birds and bird eggs in relation to nutrition and location. Fortschritte in Der 

Atomspektrometrischen Spurenanalytik. 2:531-542. 

Rec #: 459 

KEYWORDS: metals; Pb; Cd; Hg; liver; egg; Germany; Europe; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; common murre; Uria aalge; common eider; Somateria mollissima; bioaccumulation; 

biomagnification; age variations; seasonal variations 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The content of Cd, Pb, and Hg was detected in the liver and eggs of 15 species of 

birds collected in 1980-83 in the coastal region of German Federal Republic. Pb and Cd were 

not accumulated in eggs; thus eggs are not suitable as bioindicators of environmental pollution. 

The contamination of the birds with the metals is discussed in relation to their feeding habits, 

age, and season. The birds may be used as bioindicators of environmental pollution with the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

202 

metals. 

Thompson, D. R.; Bearhop, S.; Speakman, J. R.; and Furness, R. W. 1998. Feathers as a means 

of monitoring mercury in sea birds: Insights from stable isotope analysis. Environ. Pollut. 

101(2):193-200. 

Rec #: 355 

KEYWORDS: great skua; Catharacta skua; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; feather; 

metals; Hg; stable isotopes; biomagnification; Shetland; Great Britain; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Mercury concentrations, together with nitrogen and carbon stable isotope 

signatures, were detected in body feather samples from northern fulmars Fulmarus glacialis and 

great skuas Catharacta skua, and in different flight feathers from great skuas. There were no 

significant relationships between trophic status, as defined using isotope analysis, and mercury 

concentration in the same feather type, in either species. Mercury concentrations in body feather 

samples were markedly different between fulmars and skuas, reflecting differences in diet, but 

there was no corresponding difference in trophic status as measured through nitrogen stable 

isotope signatures. We conclude that mercury concentrations and stable isotope values in 

feathers are uncoupled, mercury concentrations apparently reflecting the body pool of 

accumulated mercury at the time of feather growth while stable isotope values reflect the diet at 

the time of feather growth. There were significant positive correlations between the different 

flight feathers of great skuas for all three parameters measured. These were strongest between 

primary 10 and secondary 8, suggesting that these two feathers are replaced at the same time in 

the molt sequence in great skuas. Stable isotope analysis of different feathers may provide a 

means of investigating molt patterns in birds. 

Thompson, D. R.; Becker, P. H.; and Furness, R. W. 1993. Long-term changes in mercury 

concentrations in herring gulls, Larus argentatus and common terns, Sterna hirundo, from the 

German North Sea coast. J. Appl. Ecol. 30(2):316-320. 

Rec #: 60 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; bioaccumulation; 

metals; Hg; temporal trends; Germany; North Sea; Europe; feather; temporal trends; spatial 

variations 

ABSTRACT: Mercury concentrations in body feathers of herring gulls, Larus argentatus

Pontoppidan, from the German North Sea coast showed no significant variation among seasons 

or regions. Concentrations were higher in adults than in juveniles and two times higher after 

1940 than in earlier years. Among adult herring gulls, concentrations increased abruptly to a 

peak of 12 μg g

-1 during the 1940s, presumed to be due to high discharges of mercury during the 

Second World War. Concentrations dropped in the 1950s then increased to a second peak in the 

1970s (10 μg g-1) before falling in the late 1980s. This pattern fits well with known discharges of 

mercury into the rivers Elbe and Rhine, indicating that herring gull feather samples provide a 

measure of mercury pollution of the German North Sea coastal ecosystem, pollution that appears 

to be due predominantly to river inputs rather than atmospheric inputs. Over the same period, 

mercury concentrations in body feathers of common terns Sterna hirundo L. from the German 

North Sea coast show a 380 % increase in adults and 140 % increase in young. As with herring 

gulls, museum samples did not provide evidence of geographical variation at a local level within 

Germany evident from other studies using eggs or chick body feathers. We predict that seabird 

feather sampling will show a progressive reduction in mercury contamination of the German 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

203 

North Sea coastal ecosystem as a result of recent and anticipated measures to reduce river-borne 

pollution. 

Thompson, D. R. and Furness, R. W. 1989. Comparison of the levels of total and organic 

mercury in seabird feathers. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 20(11):577-579. 

Rec #: 49 

KEYWORDS: feather; metals; Hg; organometallics; organic Hg; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; great skua; Catharacta skua; parasitic jaeger; 

Stercorarius parasiticus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; razorbill; Alca torda; common 

murre; Uria aalge; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; Scotland; Europe 

ABSTRACT: In this paper we present data for total and organic mercury concentrations in 

seabird feathers from a range of species. We also discuss the implications for studies using 

feather samples from museum collections to investigate historical trends in mercury 

contamination. 

Thompson, D. R.; Furness, R. W.; and Barrett, R. T. 1992. Mercury concentrations in seabirds 

from colonies in the Northeast Atlantic. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 23(3):383-389. 

Rec #: 34 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; bioaccumulation; spatial variations; common murre; Uria aalge; 

black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; razorbill; Alca 

torda; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; shag; Phalacrocorax 

aristotelis; feather; effects; Iceland; Scotland; Norway; Europe 

ABSTRACT: Total mercury concentrations were determined in samples of body feathers from a 

range of common seabird species breeding at Låtrabjarg, northwest Iceland, St. Kilda, Foula and 

the Firth of Forth, Scotland and Bleiksøy, Syltefjord, and Hornøy, Norway. Seabirds from 

Låtrabjarg generally exhibited the highest mercury concentrations, with a trend of decreasing 

mercury concentrations in a southwest to northeast direction in seabirds at the other colonies; 

seabirds at Hornøy were generally found to have the lowest mercury concentrations. Some 

species at the Firth of Forth exhibited relatively elevated mercury concentrations compared to 

those at Foula and Norwegian sites. Inter-colony differences in diet were thought to be relatively 

small for most species and unlikely to account for the range of mercury concentrations measured 

in the seabirds (Låtrabjarg: lowest arithmetic mean mercury concentration in common guillemots 

Uria aalge, 1.6 μg/g, s.d. = 0.6, n = 45; highest arithmetic mean mercury concentration in 

kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla, 5.5 μg/g, s.d. = 1.7, n = 36). 

Thompson, D. R.; Furness, R. W.; and Walsh, P. M. 1992. Historical changes in mercury 

concentrations in the marine ecosystem of the north and north-east Atlantic Ocean as indicated 

by seabird feathers. J. Appl. Ecol. 29(1):79-84. 

Rec #: 51 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Scotland; Great Britain; Europe; feather; northern fulmar; Fulmarus 

glacialis; Manx shearwater; Puffinus puffinus; Atlantic Ocean; gannet; Sula bassana; great skua; 

Catharacta skua; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; temporal trends; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Body feather samples from preserved study skins held in museum collections and 

from contemporary specimens of a range of species of adult seabirds from the north and northeast Atlantic were analysed for mercury in order to assess historical trends in contamination of 

the marine environment with this toxic heavy metal. Fulmars Fulmarus glacialis (L.) from both 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

204 

St. Kilda and Shetland/Orkney exhibited significant declines in mercury concentrations 

associated with pronounced dietary change over the study period. Other species analysed showed 

a general increase in mercury burdens, particularly towards the south and west of Britain. 

Increased pluvial deposition of atmospheric mercury over specific oceanic areas, associated with 

jet-streams and the pollution of the northern hemisphere by mercury, is suggested as being a 

likely cause of the observed trends. The use of time-series of feather samples, coupled with the 

extraction method for methyl mercury used in this study, offer great potential for elucidating 

changes in the mercury contamination of other environments. 

Thompson, David R.; Stewart, Fiona M.; and Furness, Robert W. 1990. Using seabirds to 

monitor mercury in marine environments: The validity of conversion ratios for tissue 

comparisons. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 21(7):339-342. 

Rec #: 52 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; bioaccumulation; organometallics; organic Hg; liver; muscle; 

feather; Scotland; Europe; wandering albatross; Diomedea exulans; yellow-nosed albatross; 

Diomedea chlororhynchos; sooty albatross; Phoebetria fusca; Atlantic petrel; Pterodroma 

incerta; soft-plumaged petrel; Pterodroma mollis; Tristan skua; Catharacta hamiltoni; northern 

fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; great skua; Catharacta skua; lesser black-backed gull; Larus fuscus; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; common murre; Uria aalge

ABSTRACT: The "7:3:1 rule" for converting mercury concentrations between feather, liver and 

muscle tissues was evaluated by measuring total and methyl mercury levels in liver, muscle and 

body feathers of a range of seabird species. Mean mercury concentrations were used to calculate 

feather:liver (both total and methyl) and feather:muscle ratios, the results obtained being 

compared with the predicted values. Feather:liver ratios were found to approximate to 2.3 when 

liver methyl mercury concentrations were considered, but elevated inorganic mercury 

concentrations in the livers of some species resulted in greatly reduced feather:liver ratios for 

total mercury. Feather:muscle ratios varied from 3.8 to 15.3. Factors likely to affect the value of 

feather:liver and feather:muscle mercury concentration ratios, such as the predominant form of 

mercury present in the liver tissue, sampling date relative to the stage of the moult sequence and 

types of feather used for analysis, are discussed and the authors emphasize that the 7:3:1 

conversion ratio should be treated with caution. 

Tillitt, Donald E.; Ankley, Gerald T.; and Giesy, John P. 1989. Planar chlorinated hydrocarbons 

(PCHs) in colonial fish-eating water bird eggs from the Great Lakes. Mar. Environ. Res. 28(1-

4):505-508. 

Rec #: 406 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; toxicology; EROD; cytochrome 

P450; TEQs; effects; egg; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna 

caspia; Great Lakes; North America; dosing study; spatial variations; reproductive success 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Reproductive impairment was studied in double-crested cormorants 

(Phalacrocorax auritus) and Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) of the Great Lakes of North 

America with respect to the levels of planar chlorinated hydrocarbons (PCHs), which include 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), and dibenzofurans (PCDFs), in 

the bird eggs. The relative potency of the egg extracts was assessed by their ability to induce 

cytochrome P450-dependent ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) in H4IIE rat hepatoma cells. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

205 

The magnitude of the response was compared with EROD induction in cell cultures by TCDD. 

The highest TCDD-equivalents were found in water bird egg composites from areas with greater 

PCH concentrations and more severe reproductive effects. Significant concentrations of PCHs 

were detected in all sites tested; the range of TCDD-equivalents in the water bird eggs was 49-

415 pg/g, uncorrected for external efficiencies. The evidence is strong for at least a partial role 

of PCHs as causal agents in the reproductive impairment of fish-eating water birds from the 

Great Lakes of North America. 

Tillitt, Donald E.; Ankley, Gerald T.; Giesy, John P.; Ludwig, James P.; Kurita-Matsuba, 

Hiroko; Weseloh, D. Vaughn; Ross, Peter S.; Bishop, Christine A.; Sileo, Lou; Stromborg, Ken 

L.; Larson, Jill; and Kubiak, Timothy J. 1992. Polychlorinated biphenyl residues and egg 

mortality in double-crested cormorants from the Great Lakes. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 

11(9):1281-1288. 

Rec #: 405 

KEYWORDS: egg; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; toxicology; TEQs; reproductive success; 

effects; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Great Lakes; North America 

ABSTRACT: The authors evaluated the overall potency of PCB-containing extracts from 

double-crested cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) eggs with an in vitro bioassay system, the 

H4IIE rat hepatoma cell bioassay. Results from the H4IIE bioassay were strongly correlated 

with the hatching success of eggs in the colonies, whereas conventional methods of PCB analysis 

correlated poorly with hatching success of eggs from the same colonies. These observations 

suggest that even though concentrations of total PCB residues have declined in almost all 

compartments of the environment, their effects are still being observed. The significance of this 

observation is that the adverse symptoms presently observed in certain Great Lakes fish-eating 

waterbird populations do not appear to be caused by some as yet unidentified industrial chemical 

or chemicals and seem not to be the result of pesticides, but rather to the dioxin-like activity of 

PCBs. Evidence is presented to suggest that the relative enrichment of the potency of PCBs in 

the environment may play a role in the persistence of the observed adverse symptoms. 

Tittlemier, Sheryl A.; Fisk, Aaron T.; Hobson, Keith A.; and Norstrom, Ross J. 2002. 

Examination of the bioaccumulation of halogenated dimethyl bipyrroles in an Arctic marine food 

web using stable nitrogen isotope analysis. Environ. Pollut. 116(1):85-93. 

Rec #: 431 

KEYWORDS: little auk; Alle alle; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; black-legged kittiwake; 

Rissa tridactyla; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; liver; Northwater Polynya; Canada; 

Greenland; Atlantic Ocean; North America; organohalogens; HDBPs; stable isotopes; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Except for ringed seals, halogenated di-Me bipyrrole (HDBP) congeners 

biomagnified in a sample aquatic food web of invertebrate>fish>seabird. concentrations of four 

possibly naturally produced organohalogens - 1,1'-dimethyl-3,3',4-tribromo-4,5,5'-trichloro-2,2'-

bipyrrole (DBP-Br3Cl3), 1,1'-dimethyl-3,3',4,4'-tetrabromo-5,5'-dichloro-2,2'-bipyrrole (DBPBr4Cl2), 1,1'-dimethyl-3,3',4,4',5-pentabromo-5'-chloro-2,2'-bipyrrole (DBP-Br5Cl) and 1,1'-

dimethyl-3,3',4,4',5,5'-hexabromo-2,2'-bipyrrole (DBP-Br6) - were quantitated and the extent of 

their magnification through an entire Arctic marine food web [measured as integrated trophic 

magnification factors (TMFs)] were calculated The food web consisted of three zooplankton 

species (Calanus hyperboreus, Mysis oculata, and Sagitta sp.), one fish species [Arctic cod 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

206 

(Boreogadus saida)], four seabird species [dovekie (Alle alle), black guillemot (Cepphus grylle), 

black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla), and glaucous gull (Larus hyperboreus)], and one 

marine mammal species [ringed seal (Phoca hispida)]. Trophic levels in the food web were 

calculated from ratios of stable isotopes of nitrogen (15N/14N). All halogenated di-Me bipyrrole 

(HDBP) congeners were found to significantly (P<0.02) biomagnify, or increase in concentration 

with trophic level in the invertebrate - fish - seabird food web. DBP-Br4 Cl2 (TMF=14.6) was 

found to biomagnify to a greater extent than DBP-Br3Cl3 (TMF=5.2), DBP-Br5Cl (TMF=6.9), or 

DBP-Br6 (TMF=7.0), even though the Kow of DBP-Br4Cl2 was predicted to be lower than those 

of DBP-Br5Cl and DBP-Br6. None of the four HDBP congeners in ringed seals followed the 

general trend of increasing concentration with trophic level, which was possibly due to an ability 

of the seals to metabolize HDBPs. 

Tittlemier, Sheryl A.; Norstrom, Ross J.; and Elliott, John E. 1998. Levels of a possible 

naturally-produced bromo/chloro compound in bird eggs from the Great Lakes, Atlantic, and 

Pacific coastal areas. Organohalogen Compounds. 39:117-120. 

Rec #: 386 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; C10H6N2Br4Cl2; egg; liver; Great Lakes; Atlantic Ocean; 

Pacific Ocean; Canada; North America; Leach's storm petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; blackfooted albatross; Diomedea nigripes; herring gull; Larus argentatus; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula 

arctica; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The unknown halogenated compound C10H6N2Br4Cl2 (I) was isolated from bald 

eagle liver and quantified using GC-FID. Absolute and relative (to PCB 153) concentrations of I 

were determined in bird eggs. The concentration of I in the eagle liver extract was 160 ng/μL. 

Levels of I were only detected in marine egg samples and the absolute and relative 

concentrations of I were higher in the Pacific samples (140-1.8 ppb) than in the Atlantic samples 

(4.8-0.6 ppb). This geographical trend was also apparent for Leach's storm petrels (the Pacific 

samples had approximately 25 times higher absolute and relative concentrations of I than the 

Atlantic samples) and the glaucous-winged gulls (5-11 times higher than the herring gulls on the 

Atlantic coast). The offshore surface feeders from both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts had the 

highest absolute and relative concentration of I compared to both the offshore subsurface feeders 

and inshore omnivores. The 2 observed trends suggest that the presence of I is strictly a marine 

phenomenon and that it predominantly occurs in the surface layer. The absence of I from the 

Great Lakes also implies that atmosphere transport dose not play a role in the distribution of the 

compound. 

Tittlemier, Sheryl A.; Simon, Mary; Jarman, Walter M.; Elliott, John E.; and Norstrom, Ross J. 

1999. Identification of a Novel C10H6N2Br4Cl2 Heterocyclic Compound in Seabird Eggs. A 

Bioaccumulating Marine Natural Product? Environ. Sci. Technol. 33(1):26-33. 

Rec #: 429 

KEYWORDS: egg; Leach's storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa; rhinoceros auklet; 

Cerorhinca monocerata; glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; black-footed albatross; 

Diomedea nigripes; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; herring gull; Larus argentatus; 

organochlorines; C10H6N2Br4Cl2; bioaccumulation; Pacific Ocean; Atlantic Ocean; British 

Columbia; Nova Scotia; Newfoundland; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America; spatial 

variations 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

207 

ABSTRACT: A brominated and chlorinated compound, C10H6N2Br4Cl2, bioaccumulating in 

seabird eggs was identified and characterized by low- and high-resolution electron impact 

ionization (EI), electron capture negative ionization (ECNI), and ammonia positive chemical 

ionization (PCI) mass spectrometry. This compound is the major congener of a series of 4 

hexahalogenated species. The major congener was detected in egg samples from Leach's stormpetrel, Rhinoceros auklet, glaucous-winged gull, and black-footed albatross from the Pacific 

coast area; Leach's storm-petrel, Atlantic puffin, and herring gull from the Atlantic coast; and 

herring gull from the Great Lakes using GC-ECNI-MS. The concentrations of C10H6N2Br4Cl2 in 

the Pacific Ocean samples were 1.8-140 ng/g (wet weight), and were significantly higher than 

the Atlantic Ocean samples (p = 0.037). The Pacific Ocean samples contained levels of 

C10H6N2Br4Cl2 approximately 1.5-2.5 times higher than in the Atlantic Ocean samples of the 

same or ecologically similar species. The compound was not detected in any of the samples 

from the Great Lakes. The Pacific Ocean offshore surface feeders had the highest concentrations 

(34-140 ng/g) when compared to the other samples (0.61-5.6 ng/g). Its strictly marine 

occurrence and relatively high nitrogen content indicate that C10H6N2Br4Cl2probably is a marine 

natural product, found at highest concentrations in the Pacific Ocean surface feeding birds. A 

possible structure of C10H6N2Br4Cl2 is 1,1'-dimethyl-tetrabromodichloro-2,2'-bipyrrole. 

Trivelpiece, Wayne Z.; Butler, Ronald G.; Miller, David S.; and Peakall, David B. 1984. 

Reduced survival of chicks of oil-based adult Leach's storm-petrels. Condor. 86(1):81-82. 

Rec #: 136 

KEYWORDS: oil; toxicology; dosing study; effects; reproductive success; feather; Leach's 

storm-petrel; Oceanodroma leucorhoa

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Birds with petroleum-coated plumage may ingest and/or inhale substantial 

amounts of the substance while preening, small amounts of ingested oil have resulted in marked 

physiological changes in nestling larids and alcids. Similar oil-induced physiological aberrations 

in adult birds may well impair reproductive success. In the present study, the authors examined 

the effect of sub-lethal oil ingestion by adult Leach's Storm-Petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa) on 

the survival and growth of their chicks. 

Turle, R.; Norstrom, R. J.; and Collins, B. 1991. Comparison of PCB quantitation methods: Reanalysis of archived specimens of herring gull eggs from the Great Lakes. Chemosphere. 22(1-

2):201-213. 

Rec #: 220 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; North America; 

Great Lakes; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Eggs have been collected from colonies of Herring Gulls (Larus argentatus) 

throughout the Great Lakes since 1970, and analyzed as a means of assessing trends in levels of 

organochlorine contaminants. PCBs were originally determined by packed-column GC-ECD as 

Aroclor 1254/1260 1:1 equivalents. Since 1986, forty-one individual congeners have been 

determined and summed to obtain Sigma PCB. In order to relate the new and old data and 

remove discontinuities due to method improvements, representative samples of a pooled gulls 

eggs from the 1970s and 1980s were retrieved from a specimen bank and reanalysed for 

individual PCB congeners. Conversion factors from Aroclor 1254/1260 1:1 Sigma PCB were 

0.450 for Lake Superior, 0.484 for Lake Huron, 0.444 for Lake Erie and 0.461 for Lake Ontario. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

208 

Turle, Richard and Collins, Brian. 1992. Validation of the use of pooled samples for monitoring 

of contaminants in wildlife. Chemosphere. 25:463-469. 

Rec #: 228 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; egg; North America; Great Lakes; 

organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; chlordanes; mirex; HCB; benzenes; OCS; HCHs 

ABSTRACT: The high cost of sample analysis for organic contaminants requires strategies such 

as pooling of samples. Eggs collected as part of the Great Lakes Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) 

monitoring have been pooled since 1986. Individual eggs from colonies from each lake have also 

been analysed. Any differences between the means of individual analyses and those of pooled 

samples are generally less than the normal analytical variation. 

Vander Pol, Stacy S. 2002. Persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Alaskan murre (Uria spp.) 

eggs. Charleston, SC, USA: College of Charleston, Masters Thesis. 125 pp. 

Rec #: 478 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; chlordanes; DDTs; HCHs; mirex; dieldrin; egg; 

common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; AK; USA; North America; Gulf of 

Alaska; Bering Sea 

ABSTRACT: Several studies have examined murre eggs in the Baltic and Eastern Canada for 

persistent organic pollutants (POPs), but only one published in 1982 investigated colonies in 

Alaska where the eggs are consumed as part of some Alaskan Native diets. The current study 

examines POPs in murre eggs collected in 1999 and 2000 from seven Alaskan colonies. Nine to 

11 eggs from each colony were individually cryohomogenized, extracted by pressurized fluid 

extraction (PFE) techniques, cleaned up with size exclusion and aminopropylsilane LC methods 

and analyzed by GC-ECD. Results revealed significant geographical differences among the 

colonies, with higher concentrations of most compounds in Gulf of Alaska murre eggs compared 

to Bering Sea eggs. Common and thick-billed murres from the same location also showed 

significant differences. There was a temporal decline in several organochlorine pesticides from 

the 1970’s to 1999-2000. Unanalyzed portions of the cryohomogenized egg tissue will remain in 

the NIST Charleston specimen bank as part of the Seabird Tissue Archival and Monitoring 

Project (STAMP) for future analyses. 

Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Becker, Paul R.; Kucklick, John R.; Pugh, Rebecca S.; Roseneau, David 

G.; and Simac, Kristin S. 2004. Persistent organic pollutants in Alaskan murre (Uria spp.) eggs: 

Geographical, species, and temporal comparisons. Environ. Sci. Technol. 38(5):1305-1312. 

Rec #: 473 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; egg; common 

murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; AK; USA; North America; Pacific Ocean; 

Gulf of Alaska; Bering Sea; spatial variations; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POP) in eggs of common and 

thick-billed murres (Uria aalge and U. lomvia) from 5 Alaskan nesting colonies were dominated 

by 4,4'-DDE, total polychlorinated biphenyl (ΣPCB; 46 congeners comprised mainly of PCB 

congeners 153, 118, 138, 99, 151), hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (βHCH), and chlordane compounds (ΣCHL). 4,4'-DDE, cis-nonachlor, and heptachlor epoxide 

concentrations were lower than those reported for some of the same colonies in the 1970s; HCB 

concentrations were similar. Generally, significantly higher concentrations were observed in 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

209 

eggs from Gulf of Alaska colonies vs. those from Bering Sea colonies except for HCB (higher in 

the Bering Sea) and β-HCH (no significant difference between the 2 regions). Thick-billed 

murre eggs contained higher 4,4'-DDE and ΣPCB concentrations; common murre eggs had 

higher HCB concentrations Possible factors contributing to POP patterns in eggs from these 

murre colonies are discussed. 

Vander Pol, Stacy S.; Christopher, Steven J.; Roseneau, David G.; Becker, Paul R.; Day, Russell 

D.; Kucklick, John R.; Pugh, Rebecca S.; York, Geoff W.; and Simac, Kristin S. 2003. Seabird 

Tissue Archival and Monitoring Project: Egg collections and analytical results for 1999 - 2002. 

Gaithersburg, MD: National Institute of Standards and Technology. NISTIR 7029. 79 pp. 

Rec #: 495 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCB; chlordanes; dieldrin; mirex; metals; Hg; 

egg; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; AK; USA; North America; Gulf of Alaska; Bering Sea; spatial variations; temporal 

trends 

ABSTRACT: The Seabird Tissue Archival and Monitoring Project (STAMP) was implemented 

in 1999 as a long-term collaborative Alaska-wide effort by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s 

Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge (USFWS/AMNWR), the U.S. Geological Survey’s 

Biological Resources Division (USGS/BRD), and the National Institute of Standards and 

Technology (NIST) to monitor long-term trends in environmental quality by banking and 

analyzing the contents of colonial seabird eggs for contaminants (e.g., chlorinated pesticides, 

PCBs, mercury). Through 2002, a total of 222 common and thick-billed murre (Uria aalge and

U. lomvia) and black-legged kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) egg clutches were collected from 12 

different locations in the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea. 

Concentrations of persistent organic pollutants (POP) in eggs of common and thick-billed murres 

from 5 Alaskan nesting colonies were dominated by 4,4'-DDE, total polychlorinated biphenyl 

(ΣPCB; 46 congeners comprised mainly of PCB congeners 153, 118, 138, 99, 151), 

hexachlorobenzene (HCB), β-hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH), and chlordane compounds 

(ΣCHL). 4,4'-DDE, cis-nonachlor, and heptachlor epoxide concentrations were lower than those 

reported for some of the same colonies in the 1970s; HCB concentrations were similar. 

Generally, significantly higher concentrations were observed in eggs from Gulf of Alaska 

colonies vs. those from Bering Sea colonies except for HCB (higher in the Bering Sea) and βHCH (no significant difference between the 2 regions). Thick-billed murre eggs contained 

higher 4,4'-DDE and ΣPCB concentrations; common murre eggs had higher HCB concentrations 

Possible factors contributing to POP patterns in eggs from these murre colonies are discussed. 

An analytical method using isotope dilution cold vapor inductively coupled plasma mass 

spectrometry (ID-CV-ICPMS) was developed for the detection of total Hg in the eggs of 

seabirds. Components including error magnification, verification of method accuracy and 

assignment of analytical uncertainty are presented in the context of collecting Hg data for single 

sample aliquots. 41 Egg samples collected from common murre colonies on Little Diomede and 

Saint George Islands in the Bering Sea and East Amatuli and Saint Lazaria Islands in the Gulf of 

Alaska yielded Hg mass fraction values ranging from approximately 0.010 μg g

-1 to 0.360 μg g-1. 

Relative expanded uncertainties for the individual detections ranged from 1.2 % to 4.4 %. A 

one-way analysis of variance including pairwise comparisons across the colonies showed that Hg 

levels in eggs collected from the Gulf of Alaska colonies were significantly higher than their 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

210 

counterparts in the Bering Sea. Hg data from each colony were normally distributed, suggesting 

a ubiquitous regional deposition of Hg and corresponding incorporation into local food webs. 

Vermeer, K. and Peakall, D. B. 1977. Toxic chemicals in Canadian fish-eating birds. Mar. Pollut. 

Bull. 8(9):205-210. 

Rec #: 533 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; herring gull; Larus argentatus; common tern; Sterna hirundo; egg; Great Lakes; 

Ontario; Canada; North America; eggshell thickness; reproductive success; effects; spatial 

variations; biomagnification 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: Cross-country comparison of DDE and PCB residue levels in cormorant, gull and 

tern eggs in Canada reveal that bird populations at the Great Lakes are most contaminated with 

those pollutants. DDE levels have been correlated with reproductive failure in Double-crested 

Cormorants in the Great Lakes with eggshell thinning as a major factor. Low reproductive 

success in Herring Gull colonies at Lake Ontario is associated with high chlorinated hydrocarbon 

levels in eggs. Fish-eating birds in the Wabigoon River system, northwestern Ontario, are among 

the most known mercury contaminated birds. It is suggested that the effects of mercury on the 

reproduction of fish-eating birds should be further examined there. 

Fish-eating birds occupy the highest levels of the food web and magnification of toxic chemicals 

through prey organisms in this web makes those birds vulnerable to the effects of environmental 

contaminants. Since fish-eating birds are present everywhere in Canada's freshwater and marine 

habitats and occupy various niches there, they may serve as pollution indicators in various food 

chains of our aquatic environment. Colonial birds are especially valuable indicators as pollution 

effects on total bird populations can be studied. Baseline information on fish-eating bird 

populations should now be collected everywhere in Canada for measuring present and future 

effects of environmental pollutants, as well as other man-made disturbances on their populations. 

Vermeer, Kees and Reynolds, Lincoln M. 1970. Organochlorine residues in aquatic birds in the 

Canadian provinces. Can. Field. Nat. 84:117-130. 

Rec #: 534 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; dieldrin; chlordanes; HCHs; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; California gull; Larus californicus; Franklin's Gull; 

Larus pipixcan; common tern; Sterna hirundo; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax 

auritus; white pelican; Pelecanus erythrorhynchos; great blue heron; Ardea herodias; blackcrowned night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; western grebe; Aechmophorus occidentalis; horned 

grebe; Podiceps auritus; eared grebe; Podiceps caspicus; American avocet; Recurvirostra 

americana; coot; Fulica atra; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; pintail; Anas acuta; gadwall; 

Anas strepera; American wigeon; Anas americana; blue-winged teal; Anas discors; lesser scaup; 

Aythya affinis; Canada; North America; fat; ovary; liver; brain; egg; spatial variations; seasonal 

variations; effects; reproductive success 

ABSTRACT: A survey was conducted of organochlorine residues in 21 aquatic bird species at 

31 locations in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. As DDT and DDD residue levels from 

analyses without PCB separation proved to be unreliable, they were omitted from the results. 

DDE and dieldrin levels were higher in eggs of lairds and fish-eating birds than in those of geese 

and ducks, presumably reflecting different trophic levels between those two groups of birds. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

211 

Interspecific differences of DDE, dieldrin, and HE, and β BHC residues observed in lairds and 

fish-eating birds at the same breeding localities may reflect interspecific differences of feeding 

habits. DDE, dieldrin and PCB levels may be predicted in tissues of California Gull females 

when known in their eggs. Residue levels in eggs closely resembled those in the livers of females 

at the time of laying. Shell thickness was significantly and inversely correlated with the 

concentration of DDE in 40 Great Blue Heron eggs from Alberta, but no significant correlation 

was found between the concentration of PCBs and shell thickness in those eggs. 

Verreault Jonathan; Skaare Janneche Utne; Jenssen, Bjørn Munro; and Gabrielsen, Geir Wing. 

2004. Effects of organochlorine pollutants on thyroid hormone levels in Arctic breeding 

glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus). Environ. Health Perspect. 112(5):532-537. 

Rec #: 518 

KEYWORDS: glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; blood; organochlorines; HCB; chlordanes; 

DDTs; PCBs; immunology; thyroid hormones; Barents Sea; Norway; Europe; effects; gender 

differences; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Studies on glaucous gulls (Larus hyperboreus) breeding in the Barents Sea have 

reported that high blood levels of halogenated organic contaminants in this species might cause 

reproductive, behavioral, and developmental stress. However, potential endocrine system 

modulation caused by contaminant exposure has yet not been reported in this Arctic apical 

predator. In this present study we aimed to investigate whether the current levels of a selection of 

organochlorines (OCs) were associated with altered circulating levels of thyroid hormones (THs) 

in free-ranging adult glaucous gulls breeding at Bear Island in the Barents Sea. Blood 

concentrations of 14 polychlorinated biphenyls, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), oxychlordane, and 

p,p ́-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p ́-DDE) were quantified, in addition to free and total 

thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), in plasma of 66 glaucous gulls in the spring of 2001. 

Negative correlations were found between plasma levels of T4 and T4:T3 ratio, and blood levels 

of OCs in male glaucous gulls. Despite their relatively low contribution to the total OC fraction, 

HCB and oxychlordane were the most prominent compounds in terms of their negative effect on 

the variation of the T4:T3 ratio. Moreover, lower T4 levels and T4:T3 ratios were measured in 

glaucous gulls breeding in a colony exposed to high levels of OCs, compared with a less exposed 

colony. Levels of T3 were elevated in the high-OC–exposed colony. This may indicate that the 

glaucous gull is susceptible to changes to TH homeostasis mediated by exposure to halogenated 

organic contaminants. 

Vorkamp, Katrin; Christensen, Jan H.; Glasius, Marianne; and Riget, Frank F. 2004. Persistent 

halogenated compounds in black guillemots (Cepphus grylle) from Greenland--Levels, 

compound patterns and spatial trends. Mar. Pollut. Bull. 48(1-2):111-121. 

Rec #: 476 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; chlordanes; toxaphene; PBDEs; DDTs; HCHs; HCB; 

liver; egg; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; Greenland; North America; spatial variations; age 

variations; bioaccumulation 

ABSTRACT: Twenty-seven black guillemot eggs and 39 livers were analyzed for 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), chlorinated pesticides including chlordane-related compounds 

and toxaphene, and polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs). The samples were collected at 

Qeqertarsuaq (Godhavn, West Greenland) and Ittoqqortoormiit (Scoresbysund, East Greenland). 

The concentrations of halogenated organic compounds in samples from East Greenland were 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

212 

somewhat higher than the corresponding concentrations from West Greenland. Differences in 

compound patterns were found between West and East Greenland, with higher percentages of the 

heavier PCB molecules, p,p'-DDE and α-HCH in the samples from Ittoqqortoormiit. Similarly, 

different levels and different compositions were observed for eggs and livers. The eggs had 

generally higher concentrations of all compounds as well as higher percentages of CHB-50, 

CHB-62 and α-HCH than liver samples from the same area. Dividing the liver samples into age 

groups revealed increasing concentrations with age. 

Walker, C. H.; Craven, A. C. C.; and Kurukgy, M. 1975. Metabolism of organochlorine 

compounds by microsomal enzymes of the shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis). Environ. Physiol. 

Biochem. 5(1):58-64. 

Rec #: 391 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; aldrin; dieldrin; liver; metabolism; Scotland; Europe; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; toxicology; enzymes 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The activities of microsomal enzymes of adult male shags (a fish-eating bird) 

towards the organochlorine substrates aldrin (I) [309-00-2], HCE (II) [21858-40-2], and HEOM 

(III) [56892-37-6] were compared with those of microsomal enzymes of the adult male Wistar 

rat. Liver homogenates showed similar epoxide hydrase [9048-63-9] activity to kidney 

homogenates in the shag, but in the rat the liver preparation was much more active than the 

kidney preparation. Liver microsomes of the shag showed >8 % of the epoxide hydrase activity 

and >14 % of the hydroxylating capacity of liver microsomes from the rat. The relatively low 

activity of these enzymes is probably the main reason why the shag has been found to contain 

relatively high levels of dieldrin in ecological studies. 

Walsh, P. M. 1990. The use of seabirds as monitors of heavy metals in the marine environment. 

In: Furness, Robert W. and Rainbow, Philip S. (Eds.). Heavy Metals in the Marine Environment. 

Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. 183-204. 

Rec #: 200 

KEYWORDS: review; effects; liver; kidney; muscle; brain; bone; feather; metals; Hg; Cd; Pb; 

Cu; Zn; penguins; albatross; fulmars; Fulmarus; tubenoses; Pagodroma; petrels; Pterodroma; 

broad-billed prion; Pachyptila vittata; shearwaters; Puffinus; Calonectris; storm petrels; brown 

pelican; Pelecanus occidentalis; gannet; Sula bassana; cormorants; Phalacrocorax; common 

eider; Somateria mollissima; skuas; Catharacta; gulls; Larus; Rissa; terns; Sterna; Netherlands; 

Europe; SC; USA; North America; spatial variations; temporal trends; seasonal variations; age 

variations; bioaccumulation; elimination; body burden 

NOTES: NO TABLES 

ABSTRACT: The review aims to draw attention to factors which need to be taken into account 

in designing programmes to monitor geographical or temporal variations in marine levels of 

heavy metals using seabird tissues. The following topics are discussed: metabolic regulation of 

metals; choice of species -- taxonomic and ecological factors; variation of metal concentrations 

between tissues; physiological and seasonal influences; age-related variation; correlations 

between metals, and evidence for detoxification mechanisms; dose-response relationships; and, 

current evidence for geographical variation in exposure of seabirds. 

Wayland, M.; Garcia-Fernandez, A. J.; Neugebauer, E.; and Gilchrist, H. G. 2001. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

213 

Concentrations of cadmium, mercury, and selenium in blood, liver, and kidney of common eider 

ducks from the Canadian Arctic. Environ. Monit. Assess. 71(3):255-267. 

Rec #: 466 

KEYWORDS: metals; Hg; Se; Cd; organometallics; organic Hg; liver; kidney; blood; common 

eider; Somateria mollissima; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: We detected concentrations of selected trace elements in livers, kidneys, and 

blood samples from common eiders (Somateria mollissima borealis) from the eastern Canadian 

arctic during 1997 and 1998. Concentrations of total Hg and organic Hg were generally low in 

the livers of these birds (less than 6 and 4 μg g-1 dry weight, respectively). Se ranged between 

II-47 μg g

-1 in livers. Renal Cd concentrations were among the highest ever published for this 

species (range: 47-281 μg g-1). The regressions of log-transformed concentrations of these trace 

elements in blood samples on those in liver or kidney were significant (all P-values < 0.05) and 

positive. However, except for organic Hg (R2 = 0.83), the co-efficients of detection were low to 

moderate (range of R2: 0.26-0.52), suggesting poor to moderate predictive capability. 

Furthermore, the relationships between total Hg in blood and liver changed between 1997 and 

1998, suggesting that it would not be possible to predict consistently, concentrations of Hg in 

blood from those in liver based on samples taken in one year. Blood samples can be used to 

detect concentrations of these trace elements in common eiders (and probably other sea duck 

species as well). The use of blood samples is especially warranted when it is undesirable to kill 

the animal such as when working with rare or endangered sea duck species or when the objective 

is to relate trace element exposure to annual survival rates. However, the predictive equations 

developed here should not be used to predict expected concentrations in one type of tissue from 

those in the other. 

Wayland, M.; Gilchrist, H. G.; Dickson, D. L.; Bollinger, T.; James, C.; Carreno, R. A.; and 

Keating, J. 2001. Trace elements in king eiders and common eiders in the Canadian Arctic. Arch. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 41(4):491-500. 

Rec #: 465 

KEYWORDS: metals; Se; Hg; Cu; Zn; Cd; organometallics; organic Hg; liver; kidney; common 

eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; liver; kidney; Nunavut; 

Northwest Territories; Canada; North America; toxicology; parasites; effects; histopathology 

ABSTRACT: The authors detected the concentrations of selected trace elements in tissues of 

king and common eiders at 3 locations in the Canadian Arctic. Renal and hepatic cadmium 

concentrations in king eiders at a location in the eastern Arctic were among the highest ever 

recorded in eider ducks: there, they were higher in king eiders than in common eiders. Cadmium 

concentrations were lower in king eiders from the western Arctic than in those from the east. In 

the western Arctic, cadmium concentrations did not differ between species. Hepatic mercury 

and zinc were higher in king eiders than in common eiders. Zinc and selenium were higher in 

eiders from the western Arctic than in those from the eastern Arctic. Trace element 

concentrations in these 2 duck species were below published toxicity thresholds. Positive 

correlations in trace element concentrations in both species were found between total and organic 

hepatic mercury, renal and hepatic cadmium as well as hepatic zinc, copper, mercury, and 

cadmium. Body mass of common but not king eiders and spleen mass of both species were 

negatively correlated with mercury concentrations. In common eiders, the number of nematode 

parasites was positively correlated with total and organic mercury. Histopathological evidence 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

214 

of kidney or liver lesions that are typical of trace metal poisoning was not found. The authors 

did not find evidence to support the hypothesis that trace metal exposure may be contributing to 

adverse effects on the health of individuals of these species. 

Wayland, M.; Gilchrist, H. G.; Marchant, T.; Keating, J.; and Smits, J. E. 2002. Immune 

function, stress response, and body condition in Arctic-breeding common eiders in relation to 

cadmium, mercury, and selenium concentrations. Environ. Res. 90(1):47-60. 

Rec #: 463 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Hg; Se; common eider; Somateria mollissima; liver; kidney; 

Nunavut; Canada; North America; biomarkers; immunology; effects; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: We examined relationships between trace metal concentrations in tissues of 

common eider ducks (cadmium, mercury, and selenium) and selected biomarkers of health 

(stress response, immune function, and body condition). This study was conducted at an eider 

nesting colony in the Canadian arctic in 1998 and 1999. Capture-induced stress, measured as the 

rise in corticosterone concentrations following capture, was positively related (P=0.03) to renal 

cadmium concentration in 1998 when incubating eiders were sampled, but not in 1999 when 

prenesting eiders were sampled. Stress response was inversely related (P=0.02) to selenium 

concentrations in 1999. Following capture and blood sampling in 1999, eiders were placed in a 

flight pen on-site for eight days in order to examine immune function. Cell-mediated immunity, 

measured as the skin-swelling response to an intradermal injection of phytohemagglutinin-P, 

(PHA-P), was positively related (P=0.003) to hepatic selenium. The heterophil:lymphocyte ratio 

was inversely related (P=0.08) to hepatic selenium. In 1998, selenium was positively related to 

body mass (P=0.01), abdominal fat mass (P=0.07), kidney mass (P=0.03), and liver mass 

(P=0.07). In 1999, hepatic mercury was negatively related to abdominal fat mass (P=0.01), 

spleen mass (P=0.07) and body mass at capture (P=0.09) in prenesting eiders. 

Wayland, Mark; Hobson, Keith A.; and Sirois, Jacques. 2000. Environmental contaminants in 

colonial waterbirds from Great Slave Lake, NWT: Spatial, temporal and food-chain 

considerations. Arctic. 53(3):221-233. 

Rec #: 349 

KEYWORDS: herring gull; Larus argentatus; common gull; Larus canus; black tern; 

Chlidonias niger; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; egg; liver; Northwest Territories; Canada; North 

America; metals; Hg; Se; organochlorines; DDTs; chlordanes; PCBs; stable isotopes; 

biomagnification; temporal trends; spatial variations; seasonal variations 

ABSTRACT: Great Slave Lake in the Northwest Territories, Canada, differs regionally in 

trophic status and local and regional inputs of contaminants. Spatial and temporal trends in 

contaminant levels in bioindicator species such as colonial waterbirds could offer insights into 

the potential for contaminant bioaccumulation in Great Slave Lake. Persistent chlorinated 

hydrocarbon contaminants, mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) were examined in herring gull 

(Larus argentatus) eggs and livers collected from various locations on Great Slave Lake in 1995. 

Eggs were collected in May and June, and livers in May and August. Also, the relationship 

between contaminants and trophic level, as inferred from stable-nitrogen isotope analysis (delta 

15N), was examined in four colonial waterbird species: herring gull, mew gull (L. canus), 

Caspian tern (Sterna caspia), and black tern (Chlidonias niger). Finally, the co-accumulation of 

mercury and selenium was examined in eggs of these birds. There were no differences in 

chlorinated hydrocarbon concentrations among four sampling sites (colonies). Concentrations 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

215 

did not differ between herring gull adults collected in early May and those collected in early 

August. Chlorinated hydrocarbon concentrations in eggs of herring gull, mew gull, Caspian tern, 

and black tern were related to their trophic positions as inferred from their delta 15N values in 

their lipid-free egg yolks. Concentrations in these colonial waterbirds were much higher than 

those in fish from Great Slave Lake, but lower than those in their conspecifics from the Great 

Lakes. It is probable that a relatively large proportion of the chlorinated hydrocarbon 

contaminant load in colonial waterbird eggs on Great Slave Lake results from exposure to and 

storage of such contaminants at more heavily contaminated wintering and staging areas. This 

possibility limits the usefulness of colonial waterbirds as indicators of chlorinated hydrocarbon 

bioaccumulation in Great Slave Lake. Selenium and mercury concentrations in herring gull eggs 

differed significantly among the four breeding colonies, and concentrations in adults declined 

between May and August. Selenium and mercury were positively correlated in eggs of all 

species. 

Wayland, Mark; Smits, Judit J. E. G.; Gilchrist, H. Grant; Marchant, Tracy; and Keating, 

Jonathan. 2003. Biomarker responses in nesting, common eiders in the Canadian Arctic in 

relation to tissue cadmium, mercury and selenium concentrations. Ecotoxicology. 12(1-4):225-

237. 

Rec #: 462 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Hg; Se; common eider; Somateria mollissima; liver; kidney; 

Nunavut; Canada; North America; biomarkers; toxicology; retinol; vitamin A; immunology; 

effects 

ABSTRACT: Populations of many North American sea ducks are declining. Biomarkers may 

offer valuable insights regarding the health and fitness of sea ducks in relation to contaminant 

burdens. In this study the authors examined body condition, immune function, corticosterone 

stress response, liver glycogen levels and vitamin A status in relation to tissue concentrations of 

Hg, Se and Cd in female common eiders during the nesting period. The study was conducted in 

the eastern Canadian arctic during July, 2000. Hepatic Hg, Se and renal Cd concentrations 

ranged 1.5-9.8, 6.5-47.5 and 74-389 μg/g, dry weight, respectively Hg concentrations were 

negatively related to dissection body mass, heart mass and fat mass. Cd concentrations were 

negatively related to mass at capture and dissection mass after controlling for the Hg 

concentration-dissection mass relationship. Cell-mediated immunity was assessed by the skin 

swelling reaction to an injection of phytohemagglutinin-P, and was unrelated to metal 

concentrations. After adjusting the corticosterone concentration to account for the time between 

capture and sampling, there was a negative relationship between the residual corticosterone 

concentration and Se. Liver glycogen concentrations were not significantly related to metal 

concentrations. Hg concentrations were positively related to those of hepatic retinol and retinyl 

palmitate and the ratio of the retinol to retinyl palmitate in liver. They were negatively related to 

the ratio of plasma to liver retinol. Our findings do not indicate that exposure to metals may 

have adversely affected the health of these birds. They do, however, suggest that more research 

is required to elucidate mechanisms by which exposure to these metals could impact body 

condition. 

Wenzel, C. and Adelung, D. 1996. The suitability of oiled guillemots (Uria aalge) as monitoring 

organisms for geographical comparisons of trace element contaminants. Arch. Environ. Contam. 

Toxicol. 31(3):368-377. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

216 

Rec #: 238 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; Hg; Se; Cu; Zn; Germany; Brittany; Europe; common murre; Uria 

aalge; liver; kidney; feather; muscle; lung; fat; spatial variations; bioaccumulation; age 

variations 

ABSTRACT: The influence of the nutritional state (condition factor), age, and sex of Common 

Guillemots (Uria aalge) on trace element levels was examined to investigate the validity of 

geographical comparisons of metal accumulations in dying and dead oiled seabirds. A quotient 

of liver mass to kidney mass was calculated as a condition factor. Condition factors ranged from 

0.85-4.74. Sex did not alter the distribution of any of the elements analyzed in immature or adult 

birds. Cadmium concentrations in soft tissues were strongly influenced by the age of the birds, 

with adult birds containing significantly higher amounts (0.025-88.28 ppm) than immature ones 

(0. 004-17.9 ppm). When simultaneously considering age and nutritional condition of the birds, 

selenium levels were highest in liver samples in immature guillemots (7.37-41.27 ppm) as 

compared to adult birds (7.22-36.84 ppm). Mercury, copper, and zinc were independent of age. 

The condition factor had no effect on cadmium levels in birds. In contrast, copper and zinc 

concentrations in kidney, liver and feathers were negatively correlated with the nutritional 

condition. In the case of mercury a similar relationship was found only in feathers. On the basis 

of these results guillemots collected in the German Bight showed significantly higher mercury 

values (0. 81-20.87 ppm) in soft tissues than birds collected in Brittany (0. 85-17.95 ppm). In 

general, cadmium levels were higher in the liver of immature birds from the German Bight than 

in those from Brittany. With regard to copper and zinc only kidney samples had higher values in 

the German Bight than in Brittany. Selenium levels were lower in feathers of birds from the 

German Bight (0.09-2.20 ppm) than in those from Brittany (0.67-6.64 ppm). The results indicate 

that beached guillemots can be used to monitor geographical differences in the contamination 

with certain metals provided that birds of the same age and/or nutritional condition are 

compared. 

Wenzel, C. and Gabrielsen, G. W. 1995. Trace element accumulation in three seabird species 

from Hornøya, Norway. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 29(2):198-206. 

Rec #: 45 

KEYWORDS: Norway; Europe; bioaccumulation; metals; toxicology; Hg; Se; Cu; Cd; Zn; 

feather; liver; kidney; muscle; gonad; lung; feather; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed 

murre; Uria lomvia; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; effects 

ABSTRACT: Soft tissues and body feathers of Common Guillemots (Uria aalge) Brünnich's 

Guillemots (Uria lomvia), and Kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) collected at Hornøya (northern 

Norway) were analyzed for total mercury, selenium, cadmium, zinc, and copper. Kittiwakes 

revealed highest cadmium and mercury concentrations in most tissues compared to both 

guillemot species, whereas interspecific differences in concentrations of essential elements were 

less obvious. The results are discussed in relation to feeding habits and migration patterns of the 

different seabird species. Age-dependent accumulation of selenium, mercury, and cadmium was 

clearly recognizable when comparing trace element contents in fully-fledged Kittiwakes to adult 

specimens. There was no evidence that the analyzed birds suffered from acute toxicities of heavy 

metals. 

Wenzel, Christine; Adelung, Dieter; and Theede, Hans. 1996. Distribution and age-related 

changes of trace elements in kittiwake Rissa tridactyla nestlings from an isolated colony in the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

217 

German Bight, North Sea. Sci. Total Environ. 193(1):13-26. 

Rec #: 80 

KEYWORDS: black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; North Sea; Germany; Europe; liver; 

kidney; feather; brain; metals; Hg; Se; Cd; Cu; Zn; age variations; bioaccumulation; 

biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Tissue distribution of five trace elements (Se, Hg, Cd, Zn, Cu) was investigated in 

soft tissues and feathers of Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) nestlings from the Island of Helgoland, 

North Sea. The tissue distribution of metals was similar in all age classes. Feathers and down 

contained highest mercury and zinc concentrations, whereas elevated levels of selenium and 

cadmium were found in the kidney. The concentrations of cadmium, copper and zinc in liver and 

kidney were low in hatchlings and increased with age of the nestlings, indicating the importance 

of the ingestion of contaminated food during chick growth. In the case of mercury, 

concentrations were high shortly after hatching and decreased when the chicks grew older. This 

indicates, that egg contamination was more important in chicks than contaminated food items. 

The total liver burden of all trace elements increased throughout chick development. Significant 

positive correlations between essential and non-essential elements were found in liver and/or 

kidney of all age classes. However, only the correlations between zinc and copper levels 

maintained throughout chick growth. The number of interactions between elements were 

increasing with progressing chick age. Correlations between cadmium and the essential elements 

copper and zinc appeared to depend on contaminant levels of cadmium, whereas mercury was 

correlated to essential elements in low and highly contaminated chicks. It was demonstrated that 

particularly older chicks (greater than or equal to 6 days old) were reliable bioindicators of 

mercury and cadmium contaminations around Helgoland Island. 

Weseloh, D. V. and Struger, J. 1986. Organochloride contaminants and mercury in herring gull 

eggs from the Great Lakes, 1983-84. IAGLR-86 Program. International Association for Great 

Lakes Research 29th Conference, May 26-29, 1986. 51. 

Rec #: 248 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; chlordanes; HCHs; HCB; PCBs; dieldrin; endrin; 

benzenes; mirex; metals; Hg; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; North America; Great Lakes 

NOTES: ABSTRACT ONLY - NOT AVAILABLE 

ABSTRACT: Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) eggs from 13 colony sites from throughout the 5 

Great Lakes and connecting channels were analyzed for 18 organic contaminants and mercury in 

1983/84. The highest levels of eight different compounds: DDE (6.4 mg/kg wet weight), dieldrin 

(0.64), heptachlor epoxide (0.30), DDT (0.06), alpha-chlordane (0.04), oxychlordane (0.43), 

endrin (0.04) and beta-HCH (0.005), occurred in gull eggs at Big Sister Island, Green Bay, Lake 

Michigan. The highest levels of tetra-(0.35) and pentachlorobenzene (0.07) were found in eggs 

from Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron. PCBs (85.0) and HCB (0.21) were greatest in eggs from 

Fighting Island, Detroit River. Colonies in Lake Ontario had the highest levels of mirex (2.0), 

beta-HCH (0.04) and mercury (.033 mg/kg wet weight). 

Weseloh, D. V. Chip; Ewins, Peter J.; Struger, John; Mineau, Pierre; and Norstrom, Ross J. 

1994. Geographical distribution of organochlorine contaminants and reproductive parameters in 

herring gulls on Lake Superior in 1983. Environ. Monit. Assess. 29(3):229-251. 

Rec #: 235 

KEYWORDS: effects; egg; herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; DDTs; HCB; 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

218 

mirex; PCBs; chlordanes; dieldrin; PCDDs; Great Lakes; North America; spatial variations; 

eggshell thickness; reproductive success; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: As part of the Great Lakes International Surveillance Plan,1978-1983, egg 

contaminant levels and reproductive output were determined for Herring Gull colonies on Lake 

Superior in 1983. Since 1974, the Herring Gull has been widely used in the Great Lakes as a 

spatial and temporal monitor of organochlorine (OC) contaminant levels and associated 

biological effects. Most eggs contained a wide range of OCs, the main compounds being DDE, 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dieldrin, heptachlor epoxide, oxychlordane, 

hexachlorobenzene and mirex. Levels of an additional ten OCs and five polychlorinated dibenzop-dioxin (PCDD) congeners were also determined for some sites. Overall, levels varied 

significantly among colonies, but there was no obvious relationship to spatial distribution of 

contaminants in sediments or fish species. OC levels in eggs had declined by up to 84 % since 

1974. Eggshells were only 8 % thinner than before the introduction of DDT, and shell thinning 

was not a cause of breeding failure. Average reproductive output varied from 0.15 to 1.57 young 

per apparently occupied nest in 1983: at 56 % of colonies the value was below that thought 

necessary to maintain stable populations. The main causes of failure were egg disappearance and 

cannibalism of chicks. Despite this, the population appeared to have been increasing at about 4 

% per annum. Reduced availability of forage fish during the early 1980s was the most likely 

reason for the poor reproductive output in 1983. 

Weseloh, D. V. Chip; Hamr, Premek; Bishop, Christine A.; and Norstrom, Ross J. 1995. 

Organochlorine contaminant levels in waterbird species from Hamilton Harbor, Lake Ontario: 

An IJC area of concern. J. Great Lakes Res. 21(1):121-137. 

Rec #: 446 

KEYWORDS: double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; black-crowned night-heron; Nycticorax nycticorax; ring-billed gull; Larus 

delawarensis; common tern; Sterna hirundo; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia; Canada goose; Branta 

canadensis; bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; gadwall; Anas strepera; greater scaup; Aythya 

marila; lesser scaup; Aythya affinis; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; egg; Great Lakes; Canada; 

North America; organochlorines; chlordanes; benzenes; HCB; DDTs; dieldrin; HCHs; mirex; 

OCS; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; metals; Hg; temporal trends; spatial variations; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: The levels of organochlorine (OC) contaminants in eggs and tissues of waterbird 

species nesting in Hamilton Harbor, Ontario, an International Joint Commission Area of 

Concern, were monitored between 1981 and 1992. PCBs, DDE, and mirex were present at the 

highest concentrations of the 29 organochlorines and one trace metal measured. Most 

contaminants in the various species tested showed a declining temporal pattern during that 

period. Double-crested cormorant eggs generally had higher concentrations of contaminants 

than those in herring gull eggs which in turn were higher than those in eggs of black-crowned 

night-herons, Caspian terns and common terns. The levels of contaminants in the eggs reflect 

the dietary preferences of the species with the fish-eating birds containing consistently higher 

accumulations of contaminants when compared to the herbivorous Canada goose for which the 

levels were consistently much lower for all compounds. The concentrations of contaminants 

detected are among some of the highest in the Great Lakes but when compared to other sites on 

Lake Ontario, the levels in Hamilton Harbor are generally equal or lower. Elevated levels of 

contaminants such as PCBs, mirex, and DDE were also detected in liver and muscle tissues of 

migrant waterfowl species from the harbor. Despite habitat degradation and continued presence 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

219 

of contaminants, the harbor supports a large number and wide variety of waterbird species. 

Except for black-crowned night-herons, the nesting populations of colonial waterbirds have 

increased between 21 and 1061 % since the last survey in 1987. 

Weseloh, D. Vaughn; Hughes, Kimberly D.; Ewins, Peter J.; Best, Dave; Kubiak, Timothy; and 

Shieldcastle, Mark C. 2002. Herring gulls and great black-backed gulls as indicators of 

contaminants in bald eagles in Lake Ontario, Canada. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 21(5):1015-1025 

. 

Rec #: 424 

KEYWORDS: bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; mirex; chlordanes; dieldrin; 

HCB; egg; Great Lakes; Canada; North America; effects; reproductive success 

ABSTRACT: In 2000, a pair of bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) nested successfully 

along the shoreline of Lake Ontario in North America for the first time since 1957; however, it is 

a continuing question whether bald eagles will be able to reproduce successfully as they return to 

nest on Lake Ontario. Great black-backed gulls (Larus marinus) and herring gulls (L. 

argentatus) were selected as surrogate species to predict pollutant concentrations in eggs of bald 

eagles nesting on Lake Ontario. Due to suspected overlap in the diets of great black-backed 

gulls and bald eagles (i.e., fish, gull chicks, waterfowl), the 2 species probably occupy a similar 

trophic level in the Lake Ontario food web, thus, may have similar pollutant concentrations. 

Fresh great black-backed gull and herring gull eggs were collected from 3 sites in eastern Lake 

Ontario in 1993 and 1994 and analyzed for contaminants. Average p,p'-DDE, total 

polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), and dieldrin concentrations in great black-backed gull eggs 

were 12.85, 26.27, and 0.27 μg/g, respectively The mean ratio of contaminant concentrations in 

great black-backed gull eggs to concentrations in herring gull eggs for these 3 pollutants was 

2.09 (range of means, 1.73-2.38). Predicted pollutant concentrations in bald eagle eggs in Lake 

Ontario would be expected to be similar to mean concentrations reported for great black-backed 

gull eggs. As a comparison, contaminant concentrations in bald eagle eggs collected from other 

Great Lakes nesting sites were compared to mean concentrations reported for herring gull eggs 

collected from nearby sites in 1986 to 1995. The mean ratio of contaminant concentrations in 

bald eagle eggs to those in herring gull eggs from these sites for DDE, total PCB, and dieldrin 

was 2.40 (range of means, 1.73-3.28). These ratios are very similar to those reported using great 

black-backed gull eggs, illustrating the apparent similarity in trophic status shared by the 2 top 

predator species at these Great Lakes sites. Predicted contaminant concentrations in bald eagle 

eggs at Lake Ontario were similar to concentrations reported for bald eagles breeding at other 

Great Lakes sites, suggesting bald eagles may be able to breed on the shores of Lake Ontario. 

However, it is unclear what level of breeding success should be expected, given that productivity 

at other similarly polluted Great Lakes sites may be below that required to sustain a successful 

breeding population. The absence of an inland bald eagle population from which bald eagles 

may begin to colonize Lake Ontario shorelines may be delaying initiation of nesting site 

selection; other factors, e.g., habitat and prey availability, would likely not limit reproductive 

success. 

Whitehead, P. E.; Harfenist, A.; Elliott, J. E.; and Norstrom, R. J. 1992. Levels of 

polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans in waterbirds of Howe 

Sound, British Columbia. In: Levings, C. D.; Turner, R. B.; Ricketts, B. (Eds.) Proceedings of 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

220 

the Howe Sound Environmental Science Workshop., Can. Tech. Rep. Fish. Aquat. Sci. No. 

1879. 229-238. 

Rec #: 183 

KEYWORDS: egg; liver; muscle; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; common 

merganser; Mergus merganser; western grebe; Aechmophorus occidentalis; surf scoter; 

Melanitta perspicillata; harlequin duck; Histrionicus histrionicus; long-tailed duck; Clangula 

hyemalis; common goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; Canada; British Columbia; North America; 

organochlorines; PCDDs; PCDFs; PCBs; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: In 1988 - 1990, eggs from Double-crested Cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) 

and livers and breast muscles of six species of diving ducks were collected from Howe Sound, 

B.C., as part of a Canadian Wildlife Service program to monitor contaminants in coastal habitats. 

PCB contamination of cormorant eggs was significantly lower in 1990 than in 1988. The levels 

of PCDDs and PCDFs in diving ducks varied considerably among species and between liver and 

muscle of the same species. 2,3,7,8-TCDF was the only contaminant found in all samples 

analyzed. Fish-eating species were the most contaminated and, for a given species, the liver 

contained higher concentrations of dioxins and furans than did the breast muscle. A health 

advisory regarding the consumption of livers from Western Grebes (Aechmophorus occidentalis) 

and Common Mergansers (Mergus mergus) from Howe Sound has been issued by Health and 

Welfare Canada. 

Wideqvist, Ulla; Jansson, Bo; Reutergårdh, Lars; Olsson, Mats; Odsjö, Tjelvar; and Uvemo, 

Ulla-Britt. 1993. Temporal trends of PCC in guillemot eggs from the Baltic. Chemosphere. 

27(10):1987-2001. 

Rec #: 297 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; toxaphene; common murre; Uria aalge; Sweden; Baltic Sea; 

Europe; egg; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Pooled samples of homogenized Guillemot eggs from 1974, 1978, 1982 and 1987 

and ten individual eggs for each of the two years, 1976 and 1989 have been analyzed for PCC 

with GC-ECD and GC-MS in the ECNI mode. Regression analysis on PCC concentrations 

versus sampling year, using the results obtained in the GC-ECD analyses based on pooled egg 

samples and the mean values of the egg samples from 1976 and 1989 respectively, revealed a 

significant (p<0.01) negative trend. Student t-test applied on the two annual egg samples from 

1976 and 1989 showed significant (p<0.01) lower concentrations in 1989, the mean 

concentration decreasing from 14 mg/kg lipid weight to 6 mg/kg. Concentrations obtained in the 

GC-MS analyses were higher, especially for the early years and the results confirmed the 

downward trend. 

Wiens, J. A; Ford, G.; Heinemann, D.; and Pietruszka, C. 1980. Simulation Modeling of Marine 

Bird Population Energetics, Food Consumption, and Sensitivity to Perturbation. Environmental 

Assessment of the Alaskan Continental Shelf. Annual Reports of Principal Investigators for the 

Year Ending March 1980. NOAA/OMPA, Boulder, CO. NOAA-OMPA-AR-80-1. 1:1-93. 

Rec #: 240 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; effects; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; glaucous-winged 

gull; Larus glaucescens; common murre; Uria aalge; sooty shearwater; Puffinus griseus; tufted 

puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; AK; USA; North America; energetics; reproductive success 

NOTES: SUPPLMENTAL 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

221 

ABSTRACT: The sensitivity and response of breeding marine birds in the Kodiak area to 

environmental perturbations such as might accompany petroleum developments were examined. 

This approach combines the use and analysis of field observations on the distributional patterns 

of the birds and their life history and reproductive attributes with analytic and simulation 

modeling of population foraging distributions and behavior and population demography. 

Throughout, patterns of response are organized within the framework of energy flow patterns. 

For purposes of modeling and potential impacts of offshore development and providing a 

distributional baseline for management decisions, these data are synthesized into distributional 

maps for each of the five major species found in this region: Black-legged Kittiwakes (Rissa 

tridactyla), Glaucous-winged Gulls (Larus glaucescens), murres (principally Common Murres, 

Uria aalge), Sooty Shearwaters (Puffinus griseus), and Tufted Puffins (Lunda cirrhata). 

Wiens, J. A.; Ford, R. G.; and Heinemann, D. 1984. Information Needs and Priorities for 

Assessing the Sensitivity of Marine Birds to Oil Spills. Biol. Conserv. 28(1):21-49. 

Rec #: 239 

KEYWORDS: review; oil; effects; thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; black-legged kittiwake; 

Rissa tridactyla; tufted puffin; Fratercula cirrhata; AK; USA; North America; reproductive 

success; energetics 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Experience in developing models to predict the potential impacts of oil spills on 

colonially breeding marine birds has revealed some major gaps in the information available on 

these systems. The authors consider the availability of data for a variety of parameters of seabird 

biology that are required in modeling efforts, and assign provisional priorities to information 

needs. In order to develop means of predicting the impacts of oil spills on seabirds, they suggest 

that colony- or site-specific information on the timing of reproduction and colony occupancy, 

chick growth rates and body weights, several metabolic parameters, flight speed, and food load 

size is of relatively low overall priority. They suggest that studies of seabird biology should give 

highest priority to obtaining information on population sizes, the probability of adult death upon 

encountering a spill, age-specific fecundity and survivorship, the time required in foraging trips, 

the lag time in the response of birds to an oil spill, foraging rate as a function of resource density, 

and changes in the availability of resources to the birds as a consequence of oil spills. 

Wiens, John A. 1996. Oil, seabirds, and science. The effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill. 

Bioscience. 46(8):587-597. 

Rec #: 245 

KEYWORDS: oil; AK; USA; North America; effects; common murre; Uria aalge; thick-billed 

murre; Uria lomvia; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; marbled murrelet; Brachyramphus 

marmoratus; black oystercatcher; Haematopus bachmani; harlequin duck; Histrionicus 

histrionicus; scoters; Melanitta; loons; Gavia; common gull; Larus canus; Arctic tern; Sterna 

paradisaea; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; black 

guillemot; Cepphus grylle; reproductive success 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: When the supertanker Exxon Valdez ran aground on Bligh Reef in Prince 

William Sound, Alaska, on the morning of 24 March 1989, it aroused widespread concern about 

possible environmental devastation. Within hours, some 41 million liters of crude oil were 

released into the marine ecosystem, making this spill the largest in US history. Eventually, oil 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

222 

was found more than 900 km from the spill site, and roughly 2100 km of shoreline were 

contaminated with oil. Reports of mortality of marine birds were immediate, and images of oiled 

seabirds figured prominently in media coverage of the spill. Within a few months, more than 

30,000 oiled carcasses had been retrieved from the water and beaches in the spill area, and 

estimates of overall mortality were substantially greater. Studies of the effects of the Exxon 

Valdez oil spill on seabirds were initiated shortly following the spill by researchers working for 

the State of Alaska and several federal agencies (the "Trustees") or supported by Exxon. By midsummer 1989, however, litigation became a priority, and as a result the two groups conducted 

their studies separately, each with little knowledge of what the other group was doing. Reports of 

many of these studies have now been made public, and enough information is available to 

develop a general assessment of how the spill affected seabirds and whether the initial concerns 

were justified. The studies also provide some insights into how the scientific process itself may 

be affected by such well-publicized environmental accidents and into the relationships among 

preconceptions, advocacy, and science. 

Wiens, John A. 1995. Recovery of seabirds following the Exxon Valdez oil spill: An overview. 

In: Wells, P.G.; Butler, J.N.; Hughes, J.S. (Eds.). Exxon Valdez Oil Spill: Fate and Effects in 

Alaskan Waters. Philadelphia, PA: American Society for Testing and Materials. 854-893. 

Rec #: 241 

KEYWORDS: review; AK; USA; North America; oil; effects; common murre; Uria aalge; 

thick-billed murre; Uria lomvia; northern fulmar; Fulmarus glacialis; black-legged kittiwake; 

Rissa tridactyla; shag; Phalacrocorax aristotelis; Atlantic puffin; Fratercula arctica; little auk; 

Alle alle; reproductive success 

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Assessing oil-spill effects requires rigorous definitions of "impact" and 

"recovery." Impact is defined as a statistically significant difference between samples exposed to 

oil and reference samples. Recovery is then the disappearance through time of such a statistical 

difference. Both impact and recovery must be assessed in relation to the background of natural 

variation that characterizes marine environments. There are three primary avenues of potential 

spill impacts on seabirds: on population size and structure, on reproduction, and on habitat 

occupancy and use. Detecting oil-spill effect involves comparisons of (1) observations taken 

following the spill with prespill data; (2) data gathered following the spill from oiled areas 

("treatments") and unoiled areas ("controls") surveyed at the same time; or (3) measurements 

taken from sites along a gradient of oiling magnitude. The strengths and weaknesses of these 

approaches are discussed. In many situations, the third approach may be most useful. Following 

the Exxon Valdez oil spill in March 1989, over 35 000 dead birds were retrieved. Model analyses 

suggested that actual seabird mortality could have been in the hundreds of thousands, prompting 

concerns about severe and persistent impacts on populations of several species, especially murres 

(Uria spp.). Recovery for some populations was projected to take decades. The findings of 

several studies conducted following the oil spill, however, indicate that these concerns may not 

be justified. These studies examined colony attendance and reproduction of murres as well as 

habitat utilization for the prevalent species in Prince William Sound and along the Kenai 

Peninsula. Surveys of attendance by birds at murre breeding colonies in 1991 indicated no 

overall differences from prespill attendance levels when colonies were grouped by the degree of 

oiling in the vicinity. At a large colony in the Barren Islands, where damage was described as 

especially severe, counts of murres were generally similar to historical estimates made in the late 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

223 

1970s. 

Wiens, John A.; Crist, Thomas O.; Day, Robert H.; Murphy, Stephen M.; and Hayward, Gregory 

D. 1996. Effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill on marine bird communities in Prince William 

Sound, Alaska. Ecol. Appl. 6(3):828-841. 

Rec #: 249 

KEYWORDS: AK; USA; North America; oil; effects; Arctic tern; Sterna paradisaea; 

Bonaparte's gull; Larus philadelphia; pigeon guillemot; Cepphus columba; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; pelagic cormorant; Phalacrocorax pelagicus; red-faced 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax urile; horned grebe; Podiceps auritus; red-necked grebe; Podiceps 

grisegena; yellow-billed loon; Gavia adamsii; red-throated loon; Gavia stellata; Pacific loon; 

Gavia pacifica; common loon; Gavia immer; common murre; Uria aalge; tufted puffin; 

Fratercula cirrhata; horned puffin; Fratercula corniculata; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa 

tridactyla; fork-tailed storm petrel; Oceanodroma furcata; parakeet auklet; Aethia psittacula; 

rhinoceros auklet; Cerorhinca monocerata; ancient murrelet; Synthliboramphus antiquus; longtailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; red-necked phalarope; Phalaropus lobatus; Kittlitz’s murrelet; 

Brachyramphus brevirostris; marbled murrelet; Brachyramphus marmoratus; parasitic jaeger; 

Stercorarius parasiticus; pomarine jaeger; Stercorarius pomarinus; long-tailed jaeger; 

Stercorarius longicaudus; red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; common raven; Corvus 

corax; black-billed magpie; Pica pica; sharp-shinned hawk; Accipiter striatus; Steller's jay; 

Cyanocitta stelleri; northwestern crow; Corvus caurinus; least sandpiper; Calidris minutilla; 

harlequin duck; Histrionicus histrionicus; black scoter; Melanitta nigra; surf scoter; Melanitta 

perspicillata; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; Barrow's goldeneye; Bucephala islandica; 

bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; greater scaup; Aythya marila; bufflehead; Bucephala albeola; 

peregrine falcon; Falco peregrinus; belted kingfisher; Ceryle alcyon; common merganser; 

Mergus merganser; bald eagle; Haliaeetus leucocephalus; great blue heron; Ardea herodias; 

glaucous-winged gull; Larus glaucescens; glaucous gull; Larus hyperboreus; common gull; 

Larus canus; lesser yellowlegs; Tringa flavipes; greater yellowlegs; Tringa melanoleuca; black 

oystercatcher; Haematopus bachmani; herring gull; Larus argentatus; pintail; Anas acuta; 

American wigeon; Anas americana; shoveler; Anas clypeata; ruddy duck; Oxyura jamaicensis; 

ring-necked duck; Aythya collaris; hudsonian godwit; Limosa haemastica; sandhill crane; Grus 

canadensis; dunlin; Calidris alpina; whimbrel; Numenius phaeopus; wandering tattler; 

Heteroscelus incanus; spotted sandpiper; Actitis macularia; black turnstone; Arenaria 

melanocephala; western sandpiper; Calidris mauri; rock sandpiper; Calidris ptilocnemis; 

surfbird; Aphriza virgata; gadwall; Anas strepera; mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; green-winged 

teal; Anas crecca; Canada goose; Branta canadensis

NOTES: SUPPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: The supertanker Exxon Valdez ran aground on 24 March 1989, spilling 41 x 106 L 

of oil into Prince William Sound, Alaska. To examine effects of this oil spill on the marine bird 

community, we analyzed data from 11 survey cruises between June 1989 and August 1991. 

Cruises were conducted in 10 study bays differing in the magnitude of initial oiling. We gauged 

bird responses to the spill in terms of habitat use, measured by frequency of bay occupancy and 

species abundances as functions of initial bay oiling. We focused on community-level measures 

to obtain a broader perspective than can be obtained from studies directed toward individual 

species of concern. Effects of the oil spill on community measures were most apparent shortly 

after the spill but diminished rapidly. Species richness was significantly lower in 1989 than at the 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

224 

same season 1-2 years later, especially in heavily oiled bays. Species diversity (log-series alpha) 

was also significantly reduced in more heavily oiled bays in early summer 1989 and 1990, but 

impacts evident in midsummer and fall 1989 were absent 1 year later, and there were no 

significant relationships between diversity and bay oiling after midsummer 1990. Species 

occurrence in bays was more restricted immediately following the spill than 1-2 years later, and 

widespread species were less abundant in early summer and fall 1989 than at the same seasons 1 

year later. This latter pattern was reversed in the midsummer surveys, perhaps because spill 

clean-up activities attracted large numbers of nonbreeding gulls. Our analyses indicated that the 

Exxon Valdez oil spill had significant initial impacts on marine bird community structure, 

although they were not evenly distributed among ecological guilds. Even during the first survey, 

many species were present in the most heavily oiled bays. Although a few species continued to 

show spill impacts in late 1991, none of the community measures indicated continuing negative 

oiling effects. This suggests that, at the community level, recovery was well underway, 

consistent with observations that seabird habitat had apparently returned to normal in all but a 

few localized areas by mid-1991. Seabird communities appear to have considerable resiliency to 

such severe but relatively short-term perturbations, possibly because birds move over a regional 

scale. It may, therefore, be important to consider regional processes in evaluating recovery 

following environmental accidents. 

Williams, J. M.; Tasker, M. L.; Carter, I. C.; and Webb, A. 1995. A method of assessing seabird 

vulnerability to surface pollutants. Ibis. 137(Suppl. 1):S147-S152. 

Rec #: 14 

KEYWORDS: North Sea; Europe; oil; effects 

NOTES: SUPLEMENTAL 

ABSTRACT: Substantial information on the offshore distribution of seabirds exists for the 

North Sea and nearby areas. This information is extensive but is not easily applicable to 

management problems, such as oil pollution incidents. A quantitative oil vulnerability index has 

been developed, based on four easily scored factors, to assess the vulnerability of seabird species 

to surface pollution. The index has been applied to calculate area vulnerability scores for 15' 

latitude times 30' longitude rectangles in the North Sea by combining the species vulnerability 

scores with information on seabird densities. Maps of vulnerable concentrations of seabirds for 

each month of the year have been published with interpretative text. These maps can be used as a 

management tool, for example, in assessing potential risk or in the event of an oil pollution 

incident. 

Williams, L. L.; Giesy, J. P.; Verbrugge, D. A.; Jurzysta, S.; and Stromborg, K. 1995. 

Polychlorinated biphenyls and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents in eggs of 

double-crested cormorants from a colony near Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA. Arch. Environ. 

Contam. Toxicol. 29(3):327-333. 

Rec #: 32 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; toxicology; TEQs; egg; WI; USA; North 

America; Great Lakes; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; abnormalities; effects 

ABSTRACT: Great Lakes colonial waterbirds have experienced poor reproduction and a greater 

incidence of birth defects than those in remote areas. An egg was collected from each of 1,000 

marked cormorant nests at Spider Island (Lake Michigan). Nine pools comprised of three eggs 

were randomly selected for instrumental quantification of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

225 

congeners, calculation of 2,3,7,8- tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin equivalents (TEQ) and 

measurement of equivalents by bioassay (TCDD-EQ). PCB analysis of the nine samples was 

semi-automated with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) columns including a 

porous graphitic carbon column. TEQs were calculated from concentrations of PCB congeners 

and bioassay-derived toxic equivalency factors (TEFs) and TCDD-EQ were measured directly 

with an H4IIE bioassay. Total PCB concentrations ranged from 9.7 to 38 μg/g wet weight (ww). 

Mean concentrations of PCB 77, 126, and 169 were 2, 7, and 1 ng/g ww. The mean TEQs and 

TCDD-EQ were 150 and 350 pg/g ww, respectively. Thus PCB congeners contributed less than 

50 % of the total TCDD-EQs as measured by the bioassay. 

Wilson, Heather M.; Petersen, Margaret R.; and Troy, Declan. 2004. Concentrations of metals 

and trace elements in blood of spectacled and king eiders in northern Alaska, USA. Environ. 

Toxicol. Chem. 23(2):408-414. 

Rec #: 470 

KEYWORDS: metals; As; Ba; Cd; Pb; Hg; Se; blood; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; 

spectacled eider; Somateria fischeri; AK; USA; North America; toxicology; gender differences; 

seasonal variations 

ABSTRACT: In 1996, we measured concentrations of arsenic, barium, cadmium, lead, mercury, 

and selenium in blood of adult king (Somateria spectabilis) and spectacled (Somateria fischeri) 

eiders and duckling spectacled eiders from northern Alaska, USA. Concentrations of selenium 

exceeded background levels in all adults sampled and 9 of 12 ducklings. Mercury was detected 

in all adult spectacled eiders and 5 of 12 ducklings. Lead concentrations were above the clinical 

toxicity threshold in one duckling (0.64 ppm) and two adult female spectacled eiders (0.54 and 

4.30 ppm). Concentrations of cadmium and mercury varied between species; barium, cadmium, 

mercury, and selenium varied between sexes. In female spectacled eiders, mercury 

concentrations increased during the breeding season and barium and selenium levels decreased 

through the breeding season. Selenium declined at 2.3 ± 0.9 % per day and levels were lower in 

spectacled eiders arriving to the breeding grounds in northern Alaska than in western Alaska. 

The variation in selenium levels between breeding areas may be explained by differences in 

timing and routes of spring migration. Most trace elements for which we tested were not at 

levels currently considered toxic to marine birds. However, the presence of mercury and 

elevated lead in ducklings and adult female spectacled eiders suggests these metals are available 

on the breeding grounds. 

Wilson, James G. and Earley, John J. 1986. Pesticide and PCB levels in the eggs of shag 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis and cormorant P. carbo from Ireland. Environ. Pollut. (B. Chem. 

Phys.). 12(1):15-26. 

Rec #: 393 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; HCHs; dieldrin; endrin; chlordanes; shag; 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis; cormorant; Phalacrocorax carbo; egg; Ireland; Great Britain; Europe; 

eggshell thickness; effects; spatial variations 

ABSTRACT: Shag and cormorant eggs were collected from 3 sites off the east, south-east and 

south coasts of Ireland and the pesticide and PCB levels determined by gas chromatography. Of 

the pesticides, p,p'-DDT [50-29-3], p,p'-DDE [72-55-9], o,p'-DDE [3424-82-6], lindane [58-

89-9], dieldrin [60-57-1], endrin [72-20-8], α-BHC [319-84-6], α-chlordane [5103-71-9], 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

226 

oxychlordane [27304-13-8], heptachlor [76-44-8], heptachlor-epoxide [1024-57-3], and 

quintofene [82-68-8] were detected, whereas o,p'-DDT [789-02-6], o,p'-DDD [53-19-0], aldrin 

[309-00-2], endosulphan-I [959-98-8], endosulphan-II [33213-65-9], endosulfan sulfate [1031-

07-8], methoxychlor [72-43-5], β-BHC [319-85-7], and γ-chlordane [5566-34-7], were not 

found. PCB levels were an order of magnitude greater than those of the pesticides, but levels of 

all substances were, in general, rather low, thus organochlorine contamination is not at present a 

serious problem in the Irish marine environment. In general, the highest levels were found at the 

site off the east coast, and there was a significant inter-site difference in total pesticides, while 

the difference in PCBs was very close to significance. These levels did not cause either lethal or 

sublethal (egg-shell thinning) effects. 

Wong, M. 1985. Environmental residues in Canadian game birds. Toxic Chemical Division 

Report, Canadian Wildlife Service. 293 pp. 

Rec #: 546 

KEYWORDS: Canada; North America 

NOTES: UNABLE TO OBTAIN – See #s 419 and 422 for info. 

Wong, Michael P.; Braune, Birgit M.; and Marshall, W. Keith. 1989. The use of wing parts for 

monitoring environmental residues. Technical Report Series No. 63. Ottawa, Ontario, Canada: 

Canadian Wildlife Service Ottawa Region. 173 pp. 

Rec #: 422 

KEYWORDS: review; age variations; gender differences; temporal trends; spatial variations; 

elimination; common merganser; Mergus merganser; red-breasted merganser; Mergus serrator; 

hooded merganser; Lophodytes cucullatus; American black duck; Anas rubripes; gadwall; Anas 

strepera; Eurasian wigeon; Anas penelope; American wigeon; Anas americana; green-winged 

teal; Anas crecca; blue-winged teal; Anas discors; shoveler; Anas clypeata; pintail; Anas acuta; 

wood duck; Aix sponsa; redhead duck; Aythya americana; canvasback duck; Aythya valisineria; 

greater scaup; Aythya marila; lesser scaup; Aythya affinis; ring-necked duck; Aythya collaris; 

common goldeneye; Bucephala clangula; Barrow's goldeneye; Bucephala islandica; bufflehead; 

Bucephala albeola; long-tailed duck; Clangula hyemalis; harlequin duck; Histrionicus 

histrionicus; common eider; Somateria mollissima; king eider; Somateria spectabilis; black 

scoter; Melanitta nigra; white-winged scoter; Melanitta fusca; surf scoter; Melanitta 

perspicillata; ruddy duck; Oxyura jamaicensis; snow goose; Chen caerulescens; Ross' goose; 

Chen rossii; white-fronted goose; Anser albifrons; Canada goose; Branta canadensis; brant; 

Branta bernicla; Newfoundland; Nova Scotia; New Brunswick; Quebec; Ontario; Manitoba; 

Saskatchewan; Alberta; British Columbia; Northwest Territories; Yukon; Canada; PA; NY; LA; 

ME; MI; NH; NJ; GA; NC; SC; CT; MA; MN; OH; VT; WI; FL; IA; OK; MT; CA; OR; UT; 

MO; CO; IL; TX; USA; Great Lakes; North America; Great Britain; Baltic Sea; Europe; skin; 

kidney; muscle; gland; pancreas; brain; gonad; liver; feather; organochlorines; DDTs; dieldrin; 

HCHs; PCBs; chlordanes; HCB; mirex; toxaphene; metals; Hg; Pb; Zn; Cd; Se; Fe; Mn; Cu; Co; 

Ni; Cr; Ag; As; Sr; V; Al; B; Mg; Li; S; Ti; Br; P 

ABSTRACT: This report reviews the literature on the use of wing parts for surveying toxic 

chemical residues. The possibility of using wing parts of harvested game birds, which are 

submitted as part of an annual survey, to monitor environmental residues is evaluated. The 

studies reviewed employed whole defeathered wings, wing muscles, wing bones and feathers as 

media for chemical analysis. The focus of attention has centered on persistent environmental 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

227 

residues (i.e. whole defeathered wings: organochlorines, wing muscles: mercury, wing bones: 

lead from spent shot, wing feathers: mercury). Other than studies of DDT residues in whole 

defeathered wings and lead residues in wing bones, little attention has been focused on the 

relationship of contaminants in the wing parts to other body tissues. 

Yamashita, Nobuyoshi; Tanabe, Shinsuke; Ludwig, James P.; Kurita, Hiroko; Ludwig, Matthew 

E.; and Tatsukawa, Ryo. 1993. Embryonic abnormalities and organochlorine contamination in 

double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) and Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) 

from the upper Great Lakes in 1988. Environ. Pollut. 79(2):163-173. 

Rec #: 251 

KEYWORDS: effects; abnormalities; toxicology; TEQs; organochlorines; PCBs; PCDDs; 

PCDFs; DDTs; chlordanes; HCHs; HCB; egg; North America; Great Lakes; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Caspian tern; Sterna caspia

ABSTRACT: Persistent organochlorine contaminants including polychlorinated dibenzo-pdioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) 

were determined in eggs with normal and deformed embryos collected in 1988 from different 

colonies during an epizootiological survey of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus) 

and Caspian terns (Hydroprogne caspia) from the upper Great Lakes. The toxic effects of these 

contaminants were also estimated in Caspian tern eggs, where elevated levels of coplanar PCBs, 

PCDDs and PCDFs were observed in concordance with increased rate of anomalies in eggs 

during a breeding season in the Great Lakes. 

Young, David R.; Heesen, Theadore C.; Esra, Gerald N.; and Howard, Edwin B. 1979. DDEcontaminated fish off Los Angeles are suspected cause in deaths of captive marine birds. Bull. 

Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 21(4-5):584-590. 

Rec #: 417 

KEYWORDS: Brandt's cormorant; Phalacrocorax penicillatus; Guanay cormorant; 

Phalacrocorax bougainvillii; California gull; Larus californicus; organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; 

metals; Hg; brain; liver; CA; USA; North America; effects; biomagnification 

ABSTRACT: Brain and liver tissues of Brandt's cormorants (Phalacrocorax penicillatus), 

Guanay cormorants (P. bougainvillii), and Calif. gulls (Larus californicus) that died at the Los 

Angeles Zoo contained total DDT [50-29-3] levels 2 orders of magnitude above the mean value 

for wild specimens. P,p'-DDE (I) [72-55-9] constituted >90 % of the total DDT. Queenfish used 

to feed the birds had relatively high I levels. The zoo birds also had polychlorinated biphenyl 

(PCB) accumulations of 140-500 ppm in the liver and 49-66 ppm in the brain. However, PCB 

and Hg levels in the zoo birds were about equal to that in wild birds and I was believed to be the 

primary cause of death. 

Zitko, V. 1972. Absence of chlorinated dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans from aquatic animals. 

Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 7(2):105-10. 

Rec #: 409 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; PCDDs; PCDFs; egg; Bay of Fundy; Canada; 

North America; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus

ABSTRACT: Chlorinated dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans were absent from the muscle and 

liver of white shark (Carcharodon carcharias), the eggs of double-crested cormorants 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

228 

(Phalacrocorax auritus) and herring gulls (Larus argentatus), the muscle of eel (Anguilla 

rostrata) and chain pickerel (Esox niger), in Canada and in commercial samples of herring oil 

and groundfish-herring fishmeal. 

Zitko, V. 1973. Determination of phthalates in biological samples. Int. J. Environ. Anal. Chem. 

2(3):241-252. 

Rec #: 450 

KEYWORDS: phthalates; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; egg; Canada; North America 

ABSTRACT: Phthalates, extracted from biological samples with hexane are partially separated 

from lipids by chromatography on alumina to yield fractions in which the common phthalate 

plasticizers can be quantitated by gas chromatography. An additional cleanup is achieved by the 

extraction of phthalates from hexane into DMF. Phthalates can then be confirmed by 

measurement of fluorescence in concentrated H2SO4. Analyses of spiked samples are reported. 

Dibutyl phthalate [84-74-2] was detected in eggs of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax 

auritus) and herring gulls (Larus argentatus) at 11-19 μg/g lipid. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate 

[117-81-7] was detected in hatchery-reared juvenile Atlantic salmon (Saamo salar) at 13-16 μg/g 

lipid, and in the blubber of a common seal pup (Phoca vitulina) at 11 μ g/g lipid. 

Zitko, V. 1976. Levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons in eggs of double-crested cormorants from 

1971 to 1975. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 16(4):399-405. 

Rec #: 408 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; PCBs; HCB; DDTs; dieldrin; mirex; egg; double-crested 

cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America; temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Levels of Aroclor 1254 [11097-69-1], and DDE (I) [72-55-9] measured in eggs of 

double-crested cormorants, (Phalacrocorax auritus) decreased between 1971 and 1973 with no 

further change between 1973 and 1975. The levels of dieldrin [60-57-1], DDD [72-54-8], DDT 

[50-29-3], Mirex [2385-85-5], and hexachlorobenzene [118-74-1] were several orders of 

magnitude lower than those of Aroclor 1254 and I and may show the same trend, except that the 

1975 concentrations were generally higher than those in 1973 and 1974. The observed levels of 

chlorinated hydrocarbons in eggs of cormorants had no apparent effect on the cormorant 

population. 

Zitko, V. 1974. Trends of PCB and DDT in fish and aquatic birds. Proceedings International 

Conference on Transport of Persistent Chemicals in Aquatic Ecosystems. Ottawa, Canada, May 

1-3, 1974. 61-64. 

Rec #: 449 

KEYWORDS: egg; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; Bay of Fundy; Nova Scotia; Canada; North America; organochlorines; PCBs; DDTs; 

temporal trends 

ABSTRACT: Muscle analysis of herring (Clupea harengus) from the Bay of Chaleur showed an 

increase in Aroclor 1254 (I) [11097-69-1] from 0.29 to 0.39 μg/g, and a decrease in DDE (II) 

[72-55-9], DDD III [72-54-8], and DDT (IV) [50-29-3] from 0.21 to 0.072, 0.055 to 0.042, and 

0.104 to 0.028 μg/g, respectively, over a period of 5 years, while herring from Nova Scotia 

showed a decrease in I, II, III, and IV, over a 2 year period. Double-crested cormorant 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

229 

(Phalacrocorax auritus) eggs showed a decrease in I, II, III, and IV, of 14.3 to 5.57, 9.7 to 2.89, 

0.113 to 0.053, and 0.167 to 0.073, respectively, over a 2 to 3 year period. Herring gull (Larus 

argentatus) eggs showed a decrease in I, II, III, and IV of 5.29 to 3.77, 2.48 to 2.10, 0.04 to 

<0.01, and 0.148 to 0.039, respectively, over a 2 to 3 year period. 

Zitko, V. and Choi, P. M. K. 1972. PCB and p,p'-DDE in eggs of cormorants, gulls, and ducks 

from the Bay of Fundy, Canada. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 7(1):63-64. 

Rec #: 410 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; DDTs; PCBs; egg; New Brunswick; Bay of Fundy; Canada; 

North America; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; herring gull; Larus 

argentatus; American black duck; Anas rubripes

ABSTRACT: Relatively high levels of polychlorinated biphenyls and p,p'-DDE were found in 

eggs of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus), herring gulls (Larus argentatus), 

and black ducks (Anas rubripes) from Fatpot Island and Hospital Island in Canada collected in 

May 1971. 

Zitko, V.; Hutzinger, O.; Jamieson, W. D.; and Choi, P. M. K. 1972. Polychlorinated terphenyls 

in the environment. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 7(4):200-201. 

Rec #: 412 

KEYWORDS: organochlorines; toxaphene; double-crested cormorant; Phalacrocorax auritus; 

herring gull; Larus argentatus; fat; egg; Bay of Fundy; Canada; North America 

NOTES: FIGURES ONLY 

ABSTRACT: The level of polychlorinated terphenyls (PCT) in the subcutaneous fat and eggs of 

herring gulls (Larus argentatus) from Bay of Fundy (Canada) was 1.4 and 0.1 μg/g, respectively, 

when expressed as Aroclor 5460 on wet weight basis. PCT was absent from the eggs and fatty 

tissue of double-crested cormorants (Phalacrocorax auritus). PCT was determined by gas 

chromatography using OV-210 on Chromosorb WAW, at a column temp. of 200.deg. (Zitko, V., 

1971). 

Zunk, B. 1984. Cadmium loading of some types of sea gulls from the Bay of Helgoland. 

Fortschritte in Der Atomspektrometrischen Spurenanalytik. 1:597-607. 

Rec #: 460 

KEYWORDS: metals; Cd; liver; kidney; great black-backed gull; Larus marinus; herring gull; 

Larus argentatus; black-legged kittiwake; Rissa tridactyla; Germany; North Sea; Europe; 

biomagnification; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Cd concentration in the liver and kidney increased in series Larus marinus < L. 

argentatus < Rissa tridactyla. In the kidney, the Cd concentrations were 2-7-fold higher than in 

the liver. In all 3 species, the renal Cd concentrations increased during 1st 3 years of life and 

remained const. thereafter. In females of L. argentatus, the hepatic Cd concentrations were 

above those of males; this may be due to higher Ca requirement for egg shell formation in the 

females. Sea gull feeding habits and Cd transport in food chain are discussed in relation to 

environmental pollution with Cd. 

Ólafsdóttir, K.; Petersen, Ć; Magnúsdóttir, E. V.; Björnsson, T.; and Jóhannesson, T. 2001. 

Persistent organochlorine levels in six prey species of the gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus in Iceland. 

Environ. Pollut. 112(2):245-251. 
Annotated Bibliography (Cont.). 

230 

Rec #: 319 

KEYWORDS: mallard; Anas platyrhynchos; tufted duck; Aythya fuligula; golden plover; 

Pluvialis apricaria; purple sandpiper; Calidris maritima; black guillemot; Cepphus grylle; rock 

ptarmigan; Lagopus mutus; gyrfalcon; Falco rusticolus; organochlorines; HCHs; HCB; PCBs; 

DDTs; chlordanes; Iceland; Europe; biomagnification; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Our previous investigations have revealed very high levels of organochlorines 

(OCs) in the Icelandic gyrfalcon Falco rusticolus, a resident top predator. We now examine six 

potential prey species of birds, both resident and migratory, in order to elucidate the most likely 

route of the OCs to the gyrfalcon. The ptarmigan Lagopus mutus, the most important prey of the 

gyrfalcon, contained very low levels of OCs. Bioaccumulation of polychlorinated biphenyls 

(PCBs) and DDTs in mallards Anas platyrhynchos, tufted ducks Aythya fuligula, golden plovers 

Pluvialis apricaria, purple sandpipers Calidris maritima, and black guillemots Cepphus grylle

reflected their position in the foodchain. The differences in OC-levels seem nevertheless too 

high just to reflect the different food-chain levels of these species in Iceland. The winter grounds 

of the migratory golden plovers and tufted ducks appear to be more contaminated than the 

Icelandic terrestrial habitat of ptarmigans or the freshwater habitat as reflected in mallards, both 

resident species. However, spending the winter on the coast in Iceland, results in high levels of 

contaminants in purple sandpipers and black guillemots. Our results indicate OC contamination 

of the marine ecosystem in Iceland while the terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems are little 

affected. It is postulated that gyrfalcons receive the major part of the observed contamination 

from prey other than ptarmigan, especially birds associated with the marine ecosystem and also 

from migratory birds. 

Ólafsdóttir, K.; Skirnisson, K.; Gylfadottir, G.; and Jóhannesson, T. 1998. Seasonal fluctuations 

or organochlorine levels in the common eider (Somateria mollissima) in Iceland. Environ. Pollut. 

103(2-3):153-158. 

Rec #: 314 

KEYWORDS: common eider; Somateria mollissima; Iceland; Europe; organochlorines; PCBs; 

DDTs; HCB; HCHs; seasonal variations; muscle; liver; gender differences 

ABSTRACT: Breast muscle of 55 common eiders (Somateria mollissima) and liver samples of 

12 birds, caught at Skerjafjørour in SW-Iceland in February, May, June and November 1993 

were analysed for organochlorine contamination (10-30 different congeners of PCBs, pp'-DDT, -

DDE, -DDD, HCB, alpha -, beta -, and gamma-HCH). The levels of the contaminants were 

similar in both tissues and were at their lowest in February. A substantial increase (up to 10-fold) 

in the levels of all substances was observed in June, in the females, which at that point had lost 

about one-third of their late winter body weight. The increase may be due to relocation to other 

tissues of organochlorines stored in the shrinking bodyfat. During this period the birds must be 

vulnerable to the toxic effects of these chemicals as they can transiently reach high 

concentrations in the blood. The levels found were similar or higher than those recently reported 

for eiders from Spitsbergen, the NWT of Canada and Frans Josefs Land of Russia, especially the 

levels of PCBs. 
Author Index. Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

231 

Aarkrog, A. (1) 111 

Addison, R. (1) 153 

Adelung, Dieter (2) 216, 215 

Ainley, D.G. (1) 165 

Allen, Janette R. (1) 18 

Allen, P. David (2) 61, 61 

Alsberg, Tomas (1) 26 

Anderka, F.W. (1) 84 

Anderson, Daniel W. (4) 19, 152, 52, 152 

Anderson, Paul (1) 174 

Andreev, A. V. (1) 129 

Anker-Nilssen, T. (1) 142 

Ankley, Gerald T. (2) 204, 205 

Antoine, Nathalie (1) 19 

Appelquist, Helge (2) 19, 20 

Arcos, J. M. (1) 20 

Arnold, M. A. (1) 53 

Arsenault, T. (1) 131 

Asbirk, Sten (2) 19, 20 

Åslund, Kerttu (1) 161 

Asmund, G. (1) 176 

Asplund, Lillemor (5) 115, 121, 127, 161, 

120 

Atrashkevich, Gennady I. (2) 130, 129 

Atwell, Lisa (1) 20 

Aulerich, Richard (1) 143 

Auman, Heidi J. (3) 143, 143, 119 

Ayotte, Pierre (1) 180 

Baars, A. J. (1) 113 

Baba, Norihisa (1) 115 

Bacon, Corinne E. (1) 116 

Bailey, Edgar P. (1) 21 

Bakken, Vidar (5) 50, 51, 51, 91, 50 

Barbeau, J. M. (1) 193 

Barrett, G. C. (2) 172, 118 

Barrett, M. W. (1) 193 

Barrett, R. T. (3) 22, 22, 203 

Barreveld, Hein (1) 55 

Bartle, J. A. (1) 141 

Bartonek, James C. (1) 162 

Bastien, L. J. (1) 126 

Baxter, M. S. (1) 63 

Bearhop, S. (2) 20, 202 

Bech, C. (1) 155 

Becker, Paul R. (4) 133, 208, 209, 58 

Becker, Peter H. (11) 23, 23, 23, 24, 121, 

200, 22, 72, 90, 140, 202 

Bell, A. A. (2) 153, 156 

Belles-Isles, Jean-Claude (1) 38 

Bellward, Gail D. (2) 184, 76 

Bend, J. R. (1) 166 

Berg, Ole (2) 34, 59 

Berge, John Arthur (1) 24 

Bergqvist, Per-Anders (2) 80, 117 

Bergström, Rune (1) 25 

Bernhoft, Aksel (1) 192 

Best, Dave (1) 219 

Beyerbach, M. (2) 72, 103 

Bignert, Anders (6) 26, 127, 161, 189, 25, 

188 

Bishop, Christine A. (8) 86, 146, 205, 218, 

26, 27, 172, 173 

Bishop, Paul (1) 52 

Bjerk, John Erik (3) 27, 81, 81 

Bjørge, Arne (1) 24 

Björnsson, T. (1) 229 

Blight, Louise K. (1) 28 

Blomkvist, Gun (1) 116 

Blus, Lawrence J. (1) 105 

Böckelmann, W. (1) 103 

Boersma, D. (1) 167 

Bogan, J. A. (4) 28, 34, 63, 140 

Böler, J. B. (1) 55 

Bollinger, T. (1) 213 

Bondarev, A. Ya. (1) 29 

Borch-Iohnsen, Berit (1) 157 

Borgå, Katrine (4) 30, 30, 113, 29 

Borlakoglu, J.T. (4) 30, 31, 31, 32 

Born, E. W. (1) 72 

Borthwick, J. (1) 52 

Bouquegneau, Jean Marie (8) 19, 32, 32, 

66, 67, 67, 68, 68 

Bourbonnais, Diane H. (1) 193 

Bourne, W. R. P. (5) 28, 32, 34, 63, 140 

Bowerman, William W. (2) 123, 143 

Braestrup, Liselotte (1) 34 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

232 

Braune, Birgit Margret (17) 39, 36, 36, 37, 

37, 37, 114, 145, 146, 34, 35, 36, 74, 101, 

153, 38, 226 

Brevik, Einar M. (1) 24 

Briggs, Kenneth T. (1) 40 

Bright, D. (1) 153 

Broman, Dag (2) 41, 41 

Brooks, R. J. (1) 26 

Brown, A. W. A. (1) 41 

Brown, N. J. (1) 41 

Brown, Robert L. (1) 110 

Brun, Einar (2) 81, 81 

Brunström, Björn (3) 42, 78, 108 

Buckman, Andrea H. (1) 42 

Bull, K. R. (1) 43 

Burger, Alan E. (1) 28 

Burger, Joanna (14) 44, 45, 45, 46, 46, 47, 

47, 48, 48, 49, 49, 43, 44, 44 

Burgess, Neil M. (2) 135, 27 

Burkow, Ivan C. (1) 109 

Bursian, Steven J. (2) 143, 147 

Bustnes, Jan Ove (4) 51, 50, 51, 50 

Büthe, Annegret (3) 23, 72, 103 

Butler, Ronald G. (7) 52, 138, 207, 52, 

148, 166, 168 

Cahill, T. M. (1) 52 

Calambokidas, John (1) 194 

Calambokidis, John (1) 53 

Caldwell, C. A. (1) 53 

Call, D. J. (1) 96 

Cameron, Marjorie (1) 54 

Camphuysen, Kees C.J. (1) 55 

Carlberg, G. E. (1) 55 

Carreno, R. A. (1) 213 

Carroll, T. R. (1) 93 

Carter, I. C. (1) 224 

Catry, P. (1) 195 

Champoux, Louise (1) 55 

Chan, H.M. (2) 56, 133 

Cheng, Kimberly M. (2) 109, 184 

Cheng, Lana (1) 43 

Choi, Jae-Won (3) 57, 122, 56 

Choi, P. M. K. (2) 229, 229 

Christensen, Guttorm (1) 121 

Christensen, Jan H. (1) 211 

Christensen, Robert E. (1) 19 

Christopher, Steven J. (2) 209, 58 

Claeys, Robert R. (1) 187 

Clark, Thomas P. (3) 160, 58, 58 

Clausen, B. (1) 124 

Clausen, Jørgen (2) 59, 34 

Cleemann, M (1) 59 

Cochrane, Jean F. (1) 197 

Coignoul, F. (2) 67, 67 

Collins, Brian (3) 207, 181, 207 

Comba, M. E. (2) 98, 98 

Cooke, A. S. (1) 60 

Coon, Nancy C. (1) 199 

Corsolini, S. (1) 83 

Coulson, J. C. (2) 60, 178 

Crabtree, A. N. (2) 60, 178 

Craven, A. C. C. (1) 212 

Crawford, R. (1) 119 

Crist, Thomas O. (1) 223 

Cubbage, James C. (1) 53 

Custer, Christine.M. (3) 61, 62, 61 

Custer, Thomas W. (3) 61, 62, 61 

Daelemans, F. F. (2) 62, 147 

Daemers, C. (1) 68 

Dahlgaard, H. (1) 111 

Dahlmann, Gerhard (1) 55 

Dale, I. M. (1) 63 

D'Amico, Christopher (1) 52 

D'Amico, Melissa (1) 52 

Danesik, Karen L. (1) 32 

Das, K. (1) 32 

Davenport, Glenn H. (1) 21 

Davis, Jay A. (1) 63 

Dawson, P. (1) 140 

Day, Robert H. (4) 64, 65, 154, 223 

Day, Russell D. (2) 209, 58 

De Pauw, E. (1) 66 

De Voogt, Pim (1) 66 

de Wit, Cynthia A. (7) 189, 121, 127, 161, 

189, 120, 188 

Deans, I. R. (1) 60 

Debacker, Virginie (8) 69, 32, 32, 66, 67, 

67, 68, 68 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

233 

Decadt, G. (1) 70 

Delbeke, Katrien (2) 71, 70 

DeMarch, B. (1) 153 

Denisova, A. V. (1) 29 

Denker, Eckhard (2) 71, 72 

Derocher, Andrew (1) 192 

DeWailly, Eric (1) 180 

DeWitt, Jamie C. (1) 109 

Dickson, D. L. (1) 213 

Dieter, Michael P. (1) 196 

Dietz, Rune (7) 156, 59, 72, 72, 73, 176, 

176 

Dils, R. R. (2) 31, 32 

Divoky, George J. (1) 162 

Docherty, D. (1) 132 

Doi, Rikuo (1) 73 

Donaldson, G. M. (3) 34, 35, 74 

Drabaek, Iver (2) 19, 20 

Duffe, Jason (1) 42 

Earley, John J. (1) 225 

Echols, K. R. (1) 147 

Egebäck, A.-L. (1) 120 

Elbert, R. A. (1) 52 

Elliott, John E. (15) 77, 77, 100, 184, 206, 

206, 109, 74, 75, 75, 76, 76, 170, 198, 220 

Elvestad, K. (1) 124 

Emerick, R. J. (1) 97 

Engwall, Magnus (1) 78 

Eppe, G. (1) 66 

Erdman, T. C (1) 132 

Eriksson, Ulla (2) 26, 161 

Erikstad, Kjell Einar (4) 51, 50, 51, 50 

Eroschenko, Victor P. (1) 175 

Esra, Gerald N. (2) 113, 227 

Evenset, Anita (2) 109, 121 

Ewins, Peter J. (3) 217, 219, 181 

Falandysz, Jerzy (7) 79, 80, 80, 80, 81, 

123, 79 

Falk-Petersen, Stig (1) 186 

Fimreite, Norvald (3) 81, 81, 81 

Fisk, Aaron T. (4) 42, 150, 205, 82 

Flint, Paul L. (1) 94 

Focardi, Silvano (4) 140, 83, 83, 139 

Fog, Mette (1) 83 

Følsvik, Norunn (1) 24 

Ford, R. G. (2) 221, 220 

Fossi, Cristina (4) 140, 83, 83, 139 

Foureman, G. L. (1) 166 

Fox, Glen A. (22) 85, 86, 86, 93, 95, 32, 

135, 142, 170, 175, 58, 84, 84, 84, 85, 93, 

95, 126, 158, 159, 181 

Frank, Adrian (2) 87, 87 

Frank, Richard (1) 88 

Franson, J. Christian (5) 88, 89, 94, 123, 

111 

Frederichsen, Per (1) 81 

Frøslie, Arne (3) 81, 112, 22 

Fry, Brian (1) 41 

Fry, D. Michael (4) 63, 89, 175, 194 

Fukuda, Kayo (1) 134 

Furness, Robert W. (17) 23, 91, 204, 20, 

22, 90, 90, 140, 141, 151, 195, 196, 202, 

202, 203, 203, 203 

Gabrielsen, Geir Wing (25) 24, 30, 91, 91, 

108, 109, 109, 113, 182, 183, 185, 186, 

192, 211, 30, 108, 183, 184, 22, 29, 107, 

107, 186, 186, 216 

Gale, R. W. (1) 147 

Garcia-Fernandez, A. J. (1) 213 

Garrett, C. (1) 159 

Gaskin, David E. (2) 36, 37 

Gaston, Anthony J. (2) 36, 74 

Gätzschmann, P. (1) 110 

Gershwin, M. Eric (1) 40 

Giesy, John P (11) 92, 122, 123, 123, 136, 

143, 143, 204, 205, 119, 224 

Gilbertson, Michael (2) 93, 143 

Gilchrist, H. Grant (4) 215, 213, 213, 214 

Gilman, Andrew P. (7) 93, 160, 84, 93, 

158, 158, 180 

Glaser, Vadim M. (1) 195 

Glasius, Marianne (1) 211 

Gobert, S. (3) 32, 32, 67 

Gochfeld, Michael (10) 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 

48, 49, 49, 44, 94 

Gøksyr, Anders (1) 192 

Gorsline, Jane (1) 175 

Goski, B. C. (1) 193 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

234 

Goto, R. (1) 128 

Gould, W. R. (1) 53 

Grafström, Anna Karin (1) 121 

Grand, James B. (1) 94 

Grasman, Keith.A. (4) 85, 95, 85, 95 

Green, Nick (1) 66 

Green, S. (1) 148 

Greichus, A. (1) 97 

Greichus, Yvonne A. (3) 97, 97, 96 

Grove, Robert A. (1) 105 

Gruchy, I. M. (1) 125 

Guiney, Patrick D. (1) 190 

Gundersen, Nil (1) 81 

Gutreuter, Steve (1) 61 

Gylfadottir, G. (1) 230 

Haas, Margaret B. (1) 156 

Haegele, K.D. (1) 30 

Haffner, G. Douglas (2) 97, 131 

Häggberg, Lisbeth (3) 26, 161, 189 

Haglund, Peter (1) 121 

Halldin, Krister (1) 42 

Hallett, Douglas J. (9) 93, 166, 98, 98, 98, 

148, 158, 166, 198 

Hallstadius, L. (1) 111 

Hamilton, E. A. (1) 146 

Hamr, Premek (2) 218, 181 

Hanbidge, Barbara A. (2) 136, 85 

Hannon, Michael Robert. (2) 99, 97 

Hansen, C. T. (1) 72 

Hansen, Kris J. (1) 123 

Hansen, M. M. (1) 72 

Hanson, H. (1) 153 

Harada, Masazumi (1) 73 

Harfenist, A. (1) 220 

Hargrave, B. (1) 153 

Hario, Martti (3) 88, 100, 111 

Harmon, R. S. (1) 52 

Harner, E. James (2) 64, 65 

Harris, H. J. (1) 132 

Harris, M. P. (2) 164, 164 

Harris, Megan L. (1) 100 

Harrison, N. (1) 196 

Hart, Leslie E. (1) 184 

Hattula, Marja-Liisa (1) 199 

Hauteclair, P. (1) 66 

Havelange, S. (1) 32 

Havelka, T. (1) 118 

Haymes, G. T. (1) 93 

Hayward, Gregory D. (3) 64, 65, 223 

Headley, Alistair D. (1) 101 

Hebert, Craig E. (5) 102, 103, 101, 102, 

159 

Heesen, Theadore C. (1) 227 

Heidmann, W. A. (3) 72, 103, 23 

Heinemann, D. (2) 220, 221 

Heinz, Gary H. (1) 104 

Heisinger, James F. (1) 110 

HELCOM (1) 104 

Henning, Diana (2) 23, 22 

Henny, Charles J. (3) 105, 105, 106 

Henriksen, Espen O. (9) 91, 108, 108, 109, 

183, 183, 107, 107, 192 

Henshel, Diane S. (2) 109, 61 

Herman, S. G. (1) 177 

Herzke, Dorte (2) 109, 121 

Hesse, Larry W. (1) 110 

Hickey, Joseph J. (1) 19 

Hidaka, Hideo (1) 125 

Hill, Elwood F. (1) 105 

Hilscherova, Klara (1) 123 

Hines, Randy K. (2) 61, 61 

Hirvi, Juha-Pekka (1) 100 

Hobbie, John (1) 41 

Hobson, Keith A. (1) 20, 42, 85, 116, 117, 

150, 205, 214, 34, 35, 82 

Hoekstra, Paul F. (1) 145 

Hoffman, David J. (1) 105 

Hogstad, O. (1) 110 

Hollmén, Tuula (3) 88, 100, 111 

Holm, E. (1) 111 

Holsbeek, Ludo (3) 19, 119, 67 

Holt, Gunnar (2) 27, 112 

Honda, Katsuhisa (1) 112 

Hontelez, L. C. M. P. (1) 113 

Hop, Haakon (2) 30, 113 

Horne, Janice A. (1) 191 

Howard, Edwin B. (2) 113, 227 

Huart, P. (1) 66 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

235 

Hughes, Donald F. (1) 19 

Hughes, Kimberley D. (2) 219, 114 

Hühnerfuss, Heinrich (2) 122, 174 

Humppi, Tarmo (1) 165 

Hutton, M. (1) 114 

Hutzinger, O. (1) 229 

Ichihashi, Hideki (2) 129, 130 

Iida, Tetsuji (1) 115 

Imagawa, Takashi (1) 123 

Inoue, Tsuyoshi (2) 125, 125 

Iseki, Naomasa (1) 122 

Iwata, Hisato (1) 115 

Jakobsson, Eva (2) 78, 120 

James, C. A. (2) 127, 213 

Jamieson, W. D. (1) 229 

Janatuinen, Jorma (1) 199 

Janes-Butler, S. (1) 148 

Jansegers, Isabelle (1) 19 

Jansson, Bo (8) 115, 116, 121, 127, 189, 

189, 220, 188 

Jarman, Walter M. (4) 116, 117, 198, 206 

Järnberg, Ulf (2) 121, 120 

Jauniaux, T. (5) 66, 67, 67, 68, 68 

Jefferies, D. J. (1) 165 

Jeffrey, Deborah A. (5) 160, 85, 158, 167, 

167 

Jensen, Sören (4) 26, 116, 117,163 

Jenssen, Bjørn Munro (3) 211, 107, 155 

Jermyn-Gee, K. (1) 118 

Jóhannesson, T. (2) 229, 230 

Johansen, P. (2) 73, 176 

Johnels, A. G. (1) 117 

Johnson, D. R. (1) 52 

Joiris, Claude R. (6) 119, 70, 67, 118, 19, 

71 

Jones, A. M. (1) 119 

Jones, Paul D. (5) 123, 136, 143, 143, 119 

Jones, S. P (1) 126 

Jones, Yvonne (1) 119 

Jonsson, Björn (1) 121 

Jurzysta, S. (1) 224 

Kageyama, Takae (1) 57 

Kahle, Silke (1) 121 

Kallenborn, Roland (3) 121, 122, 174 

Kan, Shinya (1) 112 

Kannan, Kurunthachalam (5) 92, 122, 123, 

123, 123 

Karakhanova, N. K. (1) 137 

Karasov, William H. (1) 136 

Karlin, Antti (2) 124, 139 

Karlog, O. (1) 124 

Karnovsky, Nina J. (2) 42, 82 

Kawano, Masahide (4) 57, 125, 125, 56 

Keating, Jonathan (3) 215, 213, 214 

Keith, J. A. (1) 125 

Kennedy, Sean W. (7) 86, 86, 142, 159, 84, 

126, 127 

Kettrup, A. (1) 164 

Khan, R. A. (1) 127 

Kierkegaard, Amelie (4) 127, 189, 189, 

188 

Kilpi, Mikael (2) 88, 111 

Kim, Dong Hoon (1) 122 

Kim, Eun-young (5) 129, 130, 128, 128, 

129 

Kinter, William B. (6) 149, 149, 149, 166, 

167, 168 

Kirven, M. N. (1) 177 

Kishchinskii, A. A. (1) 29 

Kjos-Hanssen, Bjørn (1) 157 

Klass, Erwin E. (1) 162 

Kleivane, Lars (1) 113 

Knüwer, H. (1) 103 

Köhler-Guenther, Angela (1) 174 

Koistinen J. (1) 130 

Koivusaari, J. (1) 130 

Kolbe, Elizabeth (1) 199 

König, Wilfried A. (2) 122, 174 

Koslowski, Susan E. (1) 131 

Koster, M. D. (1) 131 

Kotelevtsev, Sergey V. (1) 195 

Kraul, Inge (1) 83 

Krol, W. J. (1) 131 

Krüner, Günter (1) 174 

Krynitsky, Alexander J. (1) 162 

Kubiak, Timothy J. (4) 205, 219, 119, 132 

Kucklick, John R. (3) 133, 208, 209 

Kuhnlein, H. V. (1) 133 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

236 

Kuiken, Thijs (1) 32 

Kunisue, Tatsuya (1) 134 

Kurita, Hiroko (1) 227 

Kurita-Matsuba, Hiroko (2) 143, 205 

Kurukgy, M. (1) 212 

Kury, Channing R. (1) 134 

Kussat, R. (1) 159 

Kuzyk, Zou Zou A. (1) 135 

Kveseth, N. (1) 81 

Laliberte, Claire (1) 180 

Lambert, Gabrielle (2) 52, 148 

Lande, Eirik (1) 135 

Langis, René (1) 136 

Langlois, Claude (1) 136 

Larsen, Hans Jørgen (1) 192 

Larson, Jill M. (2) 136, 205 

Lazar, Rodica (2) 97, 131 

Lebedev, A. T. (1) 137 

Lee, Y-Z. (2) 137, 138 

Legierse, Karin (1) 146 

Leighton, Frederick A. (6) 138, 52, 76, 

137, 138, 167 

Lemmetyinen, Risto (3) 124, 138, 139 

Leonzio, Claudio (4) 140, 83, 83, 139 

Lepper, Peter (1) 182 

Lewis, S. A. (1) 140 

Lexén, Karin (1) 121 

Lie, Elisabet (1) 192 

Lierhagen, S. (1) 110 

Litzén, Kerstin (3) 26, 161, 25 

Lloyd, C. (1) 140 

Lock, J. W. (1) 141 

Lockhart, L. (1) 153 

Logan, K. A. (1) 27 

Lorentsen, S-H. (1) 142 

Lorenzen Angela (2) 142, 127 

Ludwig, James P. (7) 95, 115, 143, 143, 

205, 227, 119 

Ludwig, Matthew E. (3) 143, 227, 119 

Lundbergh, Ivar (1) 41 

Mabury, Scott A. (1) 145 

Macdonald, Colin R. (3) 103, 101, 144 

Mackay, D. (1) 168 

Magnúsdóttir, E. V. (1) 229 

Malcolm, H. M. (1) 145 

Marchant, Tracy (2) 215, 214 

Marcovecchio, Jorge Eduardo (1) 112 

Markova, Lubov (1) 147 

Marshall, W. Keith (2) 38, 226 

Martin, D. James (1) 177 

Martin, J. William (1) 109 

Martin, Jonathan W. (1) 145 

Martin, Pamela A. (3) 77, 146, 76 

Massart, A.-C. (1) 66 

Masunaga, Shigeki (1) 122 

Matheson, R. A. F. (1) 146 

Matsuda, Muneaki (2) 57, 56 

Matsushita, Sanae (1) 125 

Matter, John M. (1) 190 

Mattina, M. J. I. (1) 131 

McLaren, Elizabeth B. (1) 116 

Meadows, J. C. (1) 147 

Medvedev, Nikolai (1) 147 

Mehlum, Fridtjof (2) 147, 188, 62 

Mehlum, Fritjof (2) 50, 51, 50 

Meire, P. (1) 189 

Melancon, M. J. (1) 61 

Melancon, Mark J. (1) 61 

Menzel, Daniel B. (1) 177 

Metcalfe, Christopher D. (1) 131 

Meteyer, Carol U. (1) 89 

Miller, David S. (10) 149, 149, 149, 207, 

52, 148, 148, 166, 166, 167 

Min, Byung-Yoon (2) 57, 56 

Mineau, Pierre (3) 217, 98, 198 

Minh, Tu Binh (1) 134 

Moisey, John (3) 150, 160, 82 

Moksnes, Milica T. (1) 150 

Monteiro, L. R. (1) 151 

Moon, Thomas W. (2) 142, 193 

Moore, N. W. (1) 151 

Mora, Miguel A. (2) 152, 152 

Moriarty, F. (1) 153 

Muir, Derek C. G. (2) 145, 153 

Muirhead, S. J. (1) 90 

Murakami, T. (1) 128 

Murphy, Stephen M. (4) 64, 65, 154, 223 

Murton, R. K. (1) 43 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

237 

Murvoll, K. M. (1) 155 

Näf, Carina (2) 41, 41 

Nellissen, J. P. (1) 32 

Nettleship, D. N. (1) 155 

Neugebauer, E. (1) 213 

Newsted, J. L. (1) 119 

Newton, I. (1) 156 

Ng, P. (1) 26 

Nicholson, J. K. (1) 164 

Nielsen, Christian Overgaard (2) 156, 72 

Nilssen, V. H. (1) 155 

Noble, D. G. (3) 74, 74, 75 

Norheim, Gunnar (7) 25, 112, 150, 157, 

157, 157, 22 

Norstrom, Ross J. (48) 37, 42, 86, 93, 100, 

102, 103, 109, 146, 150, 160, 160, 184, 

193, 205, 206, 206, 217, 218, 153, 26, 27, 

58, 58, 74, 75, 75, 76, 82, 98, 98, 101, 102, 

127, 137, 144, 158, 158, 159, 159, 167, 

168, 170, 173, 181, 194, 207, 220 

Nounou, Pierre (1) 161 

Nuuja, I. (1) 130 

Nygård, T. (1) 110 

O'Brien, P. J. (2) 137, 138 

Odsjö, Tjelvar (4) 161, 189, 220, 25 

Ogi, Haruo (1) 112 

Ohlendorf, Harry M. (1) 162 

Ohno, Hideki (1) 73 

Ólafsdóttir, K. (2) 229, 230 

Olcott, Harold S. (1) 177 

Olsson, Mats (14) 26, 115, 116, 121, 127, 

161, 163, 189, 189, 220, 25, 117, 163, 188 

Onuska, F. I. (2) 98, 98 

Osborn, D. (4) 43, 145, 164, 164 

Ostnes, J. E. (1) 155 

Otterlind G. (1) 117 

Oxynos, K. (1) 164 

Paasivirta, Jaakko (3) 165, 199, 130 

Page, G. W. (1) 165 

Palokangas, Risto (1) 199 

Parker, Keith R. (1) 154 

Parra, O. (1) 83 

Parslow, J. L. F. (2) 140, 165 

Paulsen, G. B (1) 59 

Payne, J. F. (2) 137, 153 

Peakall, B. (1) 148 

Peakall, David B. (32) 93, 138, 149, 149, 

149, 170, 171, 207, 52, 169, 52, 75, 84, 93, 

137, 138, 148, 148, 155, 166, 166, 166, 

167, 167, 167, 168, 168, 168, 170, 177, 210 

Pearce, Peter A. (4) 171, 75, 76, 170 

Peard, John (2) 53, 194 

Pearson, M. A. (1) 96 

Pekarik, C. (4) 118, 171, 172, 172 

Pellinen, Jukka (1) 165 

Perley, B. P. (1) 52 

Persson, B. R. R. (1) 111 

Persson, Wawa (2) 26, 25 

Peterat, B. (1) 103 

Petersen, Ć (1) 229 

Petersen, Margaret R. (3) 89, 94, 225 

Petrosyan, V. S. (1) 137 

Pettit, K. E. (3) 26, 172, 173 

Pfaffenberger, Bernd (1) 174 

Phillips, R. A. (1) 195 

Piatt, John F. (1) 174 

Pietruszka, C. (1) 220 

Polder, Anuschka (2) 91, 186 

Poliakova, O. V. (1) 137 

Poppenga, Robert H. (2) 88, 111 

Potts, G. R. (3) 60, 175, 178 

Powell, D. C. (1) 147 

Pugh, Rebecca S. (4) 133, 208, 209, 58 

Quakenbush, Lori T. (1) 197 

Quick, M. P. (1) 175 

Rahimtula, A. D. (3) 137, 138, 168 

Rantamäki, Pirjo (3) 124, 138, 139 

Rappe, Christoffer (2) 80, 161 

Rattner, Barnett A. (2) 175, 190 

Reiche, P. (1) 177 

Reilly, Stephanie M. (1) 49 

Reimer, K. (1) 153 

Renber, L. (1) 163 

Renzoni, A. (2) 137, 139 

Reutergårdh, Lars (3) 163, 220, 25 

Reynolds, Lincoln M. (2) 171, 210 

Richardson, A. (1) 178 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

238 

Riget, Frank F. (6) 211, 59, 72, 73, 176, 

176 

Risebrough, K. W. (1) 19 

Risebrough, Robert W. (3) 149, 177, 177 

Robinson, J. (2) 60, 178 

Robinson-Wilson, Everett (1) 106 

Rocque, Deborah A. (1) 178 

Rodrigue, Jean (1) 180 

Roffe, Thomas J. (1) 106 

Rolff, Carl (1) 41 

Roseneau, David G. (3) 133, 208, 209 

Ross, Peter S. (1) 205 

Rozemeijer, Marcellino (1) 66 

Rudbäck, Eeva (1) 100 

Rüdel, Heinz (1) 182 

Rudis, Deborah D. (1) 106 

Ruiz, X. (1) 20 

Russel, H. A. (1) 201 

Rüssel-Sinn, H. A. (1) 103 

Rutten, A. (1) 68 

Ruus, Anders (2) 179, 180 

Ryan, John J, (1) 180 

Ryan, P. (1) 127 

Ryazhenov, N. I. (1) 29 

Ryckman, D. P. (2) 131, 181 

Ryder, John P. (1) 181 

Ryssdal, Jostein (1) 188 

Saeki, Kazutoshi (3) 130, 128, 129 

Sagerup, Kjetil (4) 182, 183, 183, 107 

Sandersen, Erik (1) 188 

Sanderson, J. Thomas (1) 184 

Sandvik, Morten (1) 179 

Särkkä, Jukka (2) 165, 199 

Savinov, Vladimir M. (2) 184, 185 

Savinova, Tatiana I. (1) 195 

Savinova, Tatiana N. (7) 184, 185, 186, 

185, 185, 186, 186 

Savva, Demetris. (1) 195 

Scanlon, Patrick F. (2) 95, 95 

Scharenberg, W. (1) 187 

Schepens, P. J. C. (1) 62 

Scheuhammer, Anton M. (2) 77, 76 

Schiettecatte, L.-S. (1) 68 

Schlabach, Martin. (1) 121 

Schmitzer, J. (1) 164 

Schroeder, D. J. (1) 147 

Schröter-Kermani, Christa (1) 182 

Schwartz, T. R. (2) 132, 147 

Scott, J. Michael (1) 187 

Seip, Knut Lehre (1) 188 

Sellström, Ulla (4) 127, 189, 189, 188 

Senthilkumar, Kurunthachalam (1) 122 

Seys, J. (1) 189 

Shea, David W. (1) 194 

Shear, H. (1) 98 

Sheffield, Steven R. (1) 190 

Shieldcastle, Mark C. (1) 219 

Shore, Richard F. (1) 191 

Shutt, J. L. (2) 102, 191 

Sileo, Louis (3) 136, 205, 132 

Simac, Kristin S. (3) 208, 209, 133 

Simon, Mary (8) 37, 160, 206, 75, 101, 

159, 172, 194 

Sirois, Jacques (1) 214 

Skaare Janneche Utne (26) 30, 51, 91, 108, 

108, 109, 113, 180, 182, 183, 192, 192, 

211, 22, 22, 29, 50, 107, 107, 155, 186, 30, 

50, 51, 179, 183 

Skirnisson, K. (1) 230 

Skjegstad, N. (1) 107 

Skorping, Arne (2) 182, 183 

Smith, L. M. (2) 132, 194 

Smith, Louise N. (2) 64, 65 

Smith, Milton R. (2) 88, 89 

Smithwick, Marla M. (1) 145 

Smits, Judit J. E. G. (2) 215, 214 

Somers, J. D. (1) 193 

Spalding, Marilyn G. (1) 105 

Sparks, Timothy H. (2) 191, 145 

Speakman, J. R. (1) 202 

Spear, Philip A. (1) 193 

Speich, Steven M. (2) 53, 194 

Sperveslage, Hans (1) 24 

Staats de Yanes, G. (1) 72 

Stalling, D. L. (2) 132, 194 

Steiger, Gretchen H. (1) 53 

Steinhanses, Jürgen (1) 182 

Stenzel, L. E. (1) 165 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

239 

Stepanova, Ludmila I. (1) 195 

Stewart, A. G. (1) 140 

Stewart, Fiona M. (3) 204, 195, 196 

Stewart, W. D. P. (1) 119 

Stickel, Lucille F. (1) 196 

Stout, Jordan H. (1) 197 

Stow, Craig A. (1) 197 

Stow, Jason P. (1) 135 

Strandell, Michael (1) 121 

Strauch, J.G., Jr. (1) 197 

Straughan, Cameron A. (1) 97 

Stromborg, Kenneth L. (6) 61, 62, 136, 

205, 61, 224 

Struger, John (6) 217, 27, 131, 198, 198, 

217 

Summer, Cheryl L. (2) 143, 143 

Suydam, Robert S. (1) 197 

Sydeman, William J. (3) 116, 117, 198 

Szaro, Robert C. (1) 199 

Szefer, Piotr (2) 81, 79 

Tanabe, Shinsuke (7) 115, 129, 130, 134, 

227, 128, 129 

Tanaka, Hiroyuki (4) 125, 200, 128, 129 

Tapia, German (2) 119, 67 

Tasker, Mark L. (2) 200, 224 

Tatsukawa, Ryo (10) 112, 115, 125, 125, 

129, 130, 227, 128, 128, 129 

Tatton, J. O. G. (1) 151 

Teeple, Stanley M. (2) 201, 93 

Ternes, W. (1) 201 

Theede, Hans (1) 216 

Thingstad, P. G. (1) 110 

Thompson, Anu (1) 18 

Thompson, David R. (10) 91, 204, 90, 141, 

196, 202, 202, 203, 203, 203 

Thompson, Steven P. (1) 105 

Tillitt, Donald E. (7) 136, 143, 143, 204, 

205, 119, 147 

Titenko, Alexei M. (1) 134 

Tittlemier, Sheryl A. (3) 205, 206, 206 

Tremblay, J. (1) 168 

Trick, J. A. (1) 132 

Trites, A. (1) 146 

Trivelpiece, Wayne Z. (3) 207, 52, 148 

Troy, Declan (1) 225 

Trudeau, Suzanne (5) 86, 84, 85, 107, 126 

Trust, Kimberly A. (1) 197 

Turle, Richard (4) 207, 27, 144, 207 

Ugland, Karl Inne (2) 180, 179 

Uvemo, Ulla-Britt (1) 220 

Vader, W. (1) 22 

Van den Dungen, H. M. (1) 113 

Van Franeker, Jan Andries (1) 55 

Van Hove Holdrinet, Micheline (1) 88 

Van Raat, Patrick (1) 66 

Vander Pol, Stacy S. (5) 133, 208, 208, 

209, 58 

Vaz, Reggie (1) 116 

Verbrugge, David A. (3) 136, 119, 224 

Vermeer, Kees (2) 210, 210 

Verreault Jonathan (1) 211 

Vorkamp, Katrin (1) 211 

Wada, Toyohito (1) 125 

Wagemann, R. (1) 153 

Wakeford, Brian (1) 36 

Wakeford, Bryan (1) 160 

Wakimoto, Tadaaki (2) 57, 56 

Walker, C. H. (4) 31, 31, 32, 212 

Walsh, Paul M. (3) 91, 203, 212 

Ward, P. (1) 43 

Watanabe, Mafumi (1) 134 

Wayland, Mark (6) 86, 214, 215, 213, 213, 

214 

Webb, A. (1) 224 

Weis, I. Michael (1) 54 

Welch, Harold E. (1) 20 

Wells, P. G. (1) 168 

Wenzel, Christine (3) 216, 215, 216 

Weseloh, D. V. Chip (6) 97, 102, 160, 217, 

218, 131 

Weseloh, D. Vaughn (17) 114, 146, 205, 

219, 27, 98, 101, 118, 159, 171, 172, 172, 

173, 181, 198, 198, 217 

Whitehead, D. (1) 146 

Whitehead, Philip E. (6) 77, 74, 75, 76, 

159, 220 

Wideqvist, Ulla (2) 220, 120 

Wienburg, C. L. (1) 145 
Author Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of papers authored. 

240 

Wiens, John A. (9) 64, 65, 154, 187, 221, 

222, 223, 220, 221 

Wigfield, Donald C. (1) 86 

Wiig, Øystein (1) 192 

Wilkins, J. P. G. (3) 31, 31, 32 

Williams, J. M. (1) 224 

Williams, Kim (1) 85 

Williams, Lisa L. (3) 123, 143, 224 

Wilson, Barry W. (1) 63 

Wilson, Heather M. (1) 225 

Wilson, James G. (1) 225 

Wilson, Laurie K. (1) 100 

Wilson, Ulrich W. (1) 105 

Winker, Kevin (1) 178 

Witter, Michael (1) 194 

Wolkers, Hans (1) 24 

Wolkers, J. (1) 107 

Won, Henry T. (3) 160, 58, 85 

Wong, Michael P. (3) 226, 38, 226 

Woodburn, M. (1) 90 

Worman, J. J. (1) 96 

Wright, Julian (2) 191, 145 

Xhrouet, C. (1) 66 

Yamashita, Nobuyoshi (2) 123, 227 

York, Geoff W. (2) 133, 209 

Yoshida, Steven H. (1) 40 

Young, David R. (2) 227, 113 

Young, W. J. (1) 164 

Zakrisson, Susanne (1) 26 

Zebühr, Yngve (2) 41, 41 

Zhu, Jiping (1) 103 

Zitko, V. (6) 227, 228, 228, 228, 229, 229 

Zunk, B. (1) 229
Publication Index. Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references published. 

241 

Acta Vet. Scand. (2) 27, 83 

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica Suppl. (1) 

112 

Am. Fish Soc. Symp. (1) 174 

Am. J. Physiol. (1) 149 

Ambio (2) 163, 166 

Angewandte Chemie (1) 122 

Animals as Monitors of Environmental 

Pollutants. Symposium on Pathobiology 

of Environmental Pollutants: Animal 

Models and Wildlife as Monitors, 

University of Connecticut, 1977. (3) 

93, 113, 149 

Annales Zoologici Fennici (1) 138 

Annu. Rev. Nutr. (1) 133 

Apatity, USSR: Kol. Nauch. Tsentr, Akad. 

Nauk SSSR. (1) 185 

Aquat. Toxicol. (1) 179 

Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. (33) 38, 

22, 26, 36, 37, 44, 52, 53, 56, 61, 74, 76, 

88, 94, 95, 107, 112, 113, 120, 128, 128, 

132, 145, 147, 152, 155, 187, 196, 203, 

213, 215, 216, 224 

Arch. Environ. Health (1) 180 

Arch. Toxicol. (1) 78 

Arctic (2) 54, 214 

Astarte (3) 81, 81, 81 

Biol. Conserv. (1) 221 

Biol. Ser. Program Fish. Wildl. Serv. 

(U.S.) (1) 196 

Biological Trace Element Research (1) 

68 

Bioscience (1) 221 

Bromatologia i Chemia Toksykologiczna 

(2) 80, 80 

Brookings, SD, USA: South Dakota State 

Univ. (1) 99 

Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. (14) 23, 

24, 62, 72, 96, 97, 127, 131, 152, 227, 

227, 228, 229, 229 

Bull. Environ. Contamin. Toxicol. (2) 34, 

199 

Bull. Mt. Desert Isl. Biol. Lab. (2) 52, 

148 

Bulletin de la Societe Royale des Sciences 

de Liege (3) 19, 32, 118 

Can. Field Nat. (4) 19, 181, 201, 210 

Can. J. of Fish. Aquat. Sci. (1) 20 

Canadian Wildlife Service Analytical 

Report CRD-88-5 (1) 159 

Canadian Wildlife Service, Ontario 

Region Technical Reports ??? (1) 118 

Charleston, SC, USA: College of 

Charleston, Masters thesis (1) 208 

Chemosphere (19) 30, 108, 115, 116, 

121, 122, 127, 130, 139, 144, 161, 165, 

174, 189, 194, 207, 207, 220, 98 

Colonial Waterbirds (2) 105, 194 

Comp. Biochem. Physiol. (1) 164 

Comp. Biochem. Physiol. C (7) 30, 31, 

32, 32, 164, 167, 167 

Condor (4) 21, 52, 154, 207 

Die Vogelwarte (1) 103 

Dis. Aquat. Org. (1) 67 

DOE(EV(10254-T1. NTIS Order No.: 

DE82016736; Contract AC03-

79EV10254 (1) 165 

Ecol. Appl. (2) 64, 223 

Ecol. Model. (1) 188 

Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf. (1) 119 

Ecotoxicol. Ser., Vol. 1, Chapman and 

Hall, New York, NY (1) 169 

Ecotoxicology (5) 105, 135, 183, 195, 

215 

Environ. Chem. Toxicol. (1) 193 

Environ. Health Perspect. (6) 89, 95, 106, 

142, 170, 211 

Environ. Monit. Assess. (12) 23, 44, 45, 

48, 74, 83, 85, 110, 172, 181, 213, 217 

Environ. Physiol. Biochem. (1) 212 

Environ. Pollut. (30) 22, 22, 25, 26, 29, 

34, 35, 42, 60, 82, 100, 109, 109, 129, 

130, 131, 135, 140, 141, 147, 157, 230, 

165, 170, 193, 197, 202, 205, 227, 229 

Environ. Pollut. (A Ecol. Biol.) (3) 114, 

153, 157 

Environ. Pollut. (B. Chem. Phys.) (3) 70, 

150, 225 
Publication Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references published. 

242 

Environ. Res. (6) 44, 67, 137, 166, 168, 

214 

Environ. Rev. (2) 93, 102 

Environ. Sci. Technol. (21) 37, 92, 100, 

101, 102, 113, 115, 116, 121, 123, 123, 

125, 134, 145, 150, 160, 182, 189, 197, 

206, 208 

Environ. Toxicol. Chem. (24) 37, 41, 41, 

49, 51, 51, 58, 62, 61, 63, 86, 88, 94, 

117, 32, 136, 148, 160, 168, 178, 180, 

205, 219, 225 

Environmental Assessment of the Alaskan 

Continental Shelf. Annual Reports of 

Principal Inverstigators for the Year 

Ending March 1980. NOAA(OMPA, 

Boulder, CO. NOAA-OMPA-AR-80-1. 

(1) 220 

FAO Fish. Rep. (1) 139 

Fauna (Blindern)(1) 25 

Fortschritte in der Atomspektrometrischen 

Spurenanalytik (2) 201, 229 

Fundam. Appl. Toxicol. (2) 46, 48 

Gaithersburg, MD: National Institute of 

Standards and Technology. NISTIR 

7029 (1) 209 

Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada: 

Environmental Protection Service, 

Atlantic Region. EPS-5-AR-80-1. (1) 

146 

IAGLR-86 Program. International 

Association for Great Lakes Research 

29th Conference, May 26-29, 1986 (2) 

58, 217 

Ibis (1) 224 

In. Theoretical approaches to the study of 

ecosystmes at Arctic and Subarctic seas. 

Apatity, The Kola Scientific Centre 

Publishing House (1) 185 

In: Environmental assessment of the 

Alaskan continental shelf. Northeast 

Gulf of Alaska interim synthesis report. 

Science Applications, Inc., Boulder, CO 

80301, USA (1) 197 

In: Extended Abstracts of the International 

Symposium on the Analysis of 

Hydrocarbons and Halogenated 

Hydrocarbons, #40, University of 

Toronto, Ontario (1) 98 

In: Furness, Robert W. and Rainbow, 

Philip S. (Eds.). Heavy Metals in the 

Marine Environment. Boca Raton, FL: 

CRC Press. (2) 91, 212 

In: Jauniaux, Thierry; Bouquegneau, Jean 

Marie; Coignoul, Freddy (Eds.). Marine 

Mammals, Seabirds and Pollution of 

Marine Systems. Bulletin de la Societe 

royale des sciences de Li. (1) 189 

In: Johnston, R. (Ed.) Marine pollution. 

London: Academic Press. (1) 32 

In: Kendall, Ronald J., Richard L. 

Dickerson, John P. Giesy, William P. 

Suk (Eds.). Principles and Processes for 

Evaluating Endocrine Disruption in 

Wildlife, Proceedings from Principles 

and Processes for Evaluating Endocrine 

Disruption in Wildlife; March (2) 104, 

190 

In: Levings, C. D.; Turner, R. B.; Ricketts, 

B. (Eds.) Proceedings of the Howe 

Sound Environmental Science 

Workshop., Can. Tech. Rep. Fish. 

Aquat. Sci. No. 1879 (1) 220 

In: Låg, J. (Ed.) Excess and deficiency of 

trace elements in relation to human and 

animal health in Arctic and Subarctic 

regions. Norwegian Academy of 

Science and Letters. (1) 157 

In: Proceedings of the 38th Conference of 

the International Association for Great 

Lakes Research, East Lansing, MI 

(USA), 28 May-1 Jun 1995 (1) 159 

In: Schmidtke, Norbert W. (Ed.), Toxic 

Contamination in Large Lakes. Volume 

1. Chronic Effects of Toxic 

Contaminants in Large Lakes (1) 166 

In: Sellström, U. Determination of some 

polybrominated flame retardants in 
Publication Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references published. 

243 

biota, sediment, and sewage sludge. 

Ph.D. Dissertation, Stockholm 

University. (1) 188 

In: Servos, Mark R., Munkittrick, Kelly 

R., Carey, John H., van der Kraak, Glen 

J. (Eds.), Environmental Fate and Effects 

of Pulp and Paper Mill Effluents. Delray 

Beach, FL: St. Lucie Press. (1) 76 

In: Walker, Colin H.; Livingstone, David 

R. Persistent Pollutants in Marine 

Ecosystems. New York: Pergamon 

Press. (1) 75 

In: Wells, P.G.; Butler, J.N.; Hughes, J.S. 

(Eds.). Exxon Valdez Oil Spill: Fate and 

Effects in Alaskan Waters. Philadelphia, 

PA (2) 65, 222 

Institute of Terrestrial Ecology Annual 

Report 1981 (1) 156 

Intern. J. Environ. Anal. Chem. (1) 228 

J Exp Zool (1) 175 

J. Anal. At. Spectrom. (1) 58 

J. Appl. Ecol. (4) 50, 183, 202, 203 

J. Envrion. Monit. (1) 24 

J. Forensic Sci. Soc. (1) 175 

J. Great Lakes Res. (10) 85, 97, 103, 109, 

114, 131, 143, 143, 198, 218 

J. Ornithol. (1) 23 

J. Toxicol. Environ. Health (3) 45, 47, 

184 

J. Wildl. Dis. (1) 89 

J. Wildl. Manage. (6) 41, 84, 93, 110, 

134, 187 

Kankyo Kagaku (2) 129, 200 

Liege, Belgium: Universite de l'Etat a 

Liege, Faculty of Sciences, Oceanolgy 

(1) 69 

Mar. Ecol. Prog. Ser. (2) 20, 195 

Mar. Environ. Res. (8) 31, 68, 84, 107, 

126, 167, 168, 204 

Mar. Pollut. Bull. (23) 18, 19, 20, 28, 34, 

55, 63, 77, 79, 79, 90, 119, 123, 125, 

140, 142, 155, 191, 198, 203, 204, 210, 

211 

Meddelelser Om Grønland, Bioscience 29 

(1) 156 

Memoirs of National Institute of Polar 

Research (1) 91 

Nature (10) 28, 43, 60, 117, 119, 151, 

175, 177, 177, 178 

Nauchnye Osnovy Okhrany Prirody (1) 

29 

Neth. J. Aquat. Ecol. (1) 200 

NOAA Tech. Memo. NOS OMA 113 (1) 

53 

Nordisk Veterinaermedicin (1) 124 

Occas. Pap. Can. Wildl. Serv. (1) 77 

Oceanis (1) 71 

Oceanologica Acta (1) 111 

Oebalia (1) 83 

OME 36th Conference of the International 

Association for Great Lakes Research, 

June 4-10, 1993. Program and Abstracts 

(1) 84 

Organohalogen Compounds (14) 30, 50, 

57, 66, 66, 71, 86, 108, 121, 127, 133, 

182, 192, 206 

Ornis Fennica (1) 124 

Ornis Scand. (1) 36 

PCB Conf. II, 1972, suppl. 4E. Solina, 

Sweden: Swed. Environ. Prot. Board. 

(1) 163 

Pestic. Monit. J. (2) 171, 199 

Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. (4) 43, 46, 

47, 49 

Preprint, Kol'skij Nauchn. Tsentr Ran, 

Apatity (Russia) (1) 186 

Proc. Inter. Ornithol. Congr. (1) 125 

Proceedings International Conference on 

Transport of Persistent Chemicals in 

Aquatic Ecosystems. Ottawa, Canada, 

May 1-3, 1974. (1) 228 

Proceedings of the 23rd Annual Aquatic 

Toxicity Workshop: October 7-9, 1996, 

Calgary, Alberta. Can. Tech. Rep. Fish. 

Aquat. Sci. (1) 56 

Proceedings of the 26th Conference on 

Great Lakes Research. May 23-27, 1983, 
Publication Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references published. 

244 

State University of New York at Oswego 

(2) 158, 198 

Proceedings of the 38th Conference of the 

International Association of Great Lakes 

Research., International Association for 

Great Lakes Research, 2200 Bonisteel 

Boulevard, Ann Arbor, Mi 48109-2099 

(USA) (1) 171 

Programs and Abstracts of the 28th 

Confefence on Great Lakes Research 

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (1) 

75 

Pure. Appl. Chem. (1) 59 

Recherche (1) 161 

Regul. Toxicol. Pharmacol. (1) 40 

Sci. Total Environ. (22) 59, 72, 72, 73, 

73, 81, 87, 87, 91, 101, 136, 137, 140, 

147, 153, 158, 164, 176, 176, 184, 186, 

216 

Science (2) 138, 149 

Senter for Industriforskning, Report No. 

83/11/01-1 (1) 55 

Stud. Mater. Ocenaol. (1) 80 

Synopsis of Research Conducted under the 

Northern Contaminants Program 1998-

1999. Ottawa: Department of Indian 

Affairs and Northern Development. (1) 

36 

Tech. Rep. Ser. No. 187. Canadian Wildl. 

Serv. St. Foy, PQ, (1) 55 

Third periodic assessment of the state of 

the marine environment of the Baltic 

Sea, 1989-93 Helsinki : HELCOM (1) 

104 

Thirteenth International Symposium on 

Chlorinated Dioxins and Related 

Compounds. Vienna, Austria, 

September, 1993. (1) 191 

Toxic Chemical Division Reoprt, 

Canadian Wildlife Service (1) 226 

Toxicol. Appl. Pharmacol. (2) 97, 138 

Toxicol. Lett. (2) 42, 192 

United States Department of the Interior, 

Fish and Wildlife Service, Special 

Scientific Report - Wildlife No. 245, 

Washington, DC (1) 162 

University of Guelph. Dept. of Zoology. 

Ph.D. thesis. (1) 39 

Verh. Internat. Verein. Limnol. (1) 98 

Water Air Soil Pollut. (1) 151 

Water Qual. Res. J. Canada (1) 146 

Wildl. Biol. (1) 111 
Keyword Index. Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the keyword. 

245 

abnormalities (20) 18, 32, 53, 61, 84, 84, 

93, 93, 104, 109, 111, 133, 136, 138, 143, 

166, 181, 196, 224, 227 

Accipiter cooperii (1) 125 

Accipiter gentilis (1) 110 

Accipiter nisus (1) 169 

Accipiter striatus (3) 65, 125, 223 

Actitis macularia (4) 64, 65, 125, 223 

Adelie penguin (1) 32 

adrenal cortex (1) 175 

Aechmophorus occidentalis (5) 32, 52, 125, 

210, 220 

Aethia cristatella (1) 112 

Aethia psittacula (2) 112, 223 

Aethia pusilla (1) 112 

Ag (7) 32, 38, 128, 135, 198, 198, 226 

age variations (35) 24, 37, 39, 45, 51, 52, 

59, 61, 68, 69, 74, 105, 111, 114, 115, 138, 

139, 141, 153, 156, 169, 176, 176, 178, 179, 

185, 187, 195, 198, 201, 211, 212, 215, 216, 

226 

Agelaius phoeniceus (4) 146, 152, 152, 169 

AHH (5) 62, 78, 132, 190, 200 

Aix sponsa (2) 38, 226 

AK (26) 21, 58, 64, 65, 89, 94, 106, 112, 

125, 133, 133, 154, 162, 174, 178, 197, 197, 

208, 208, 209, 220, 221, 221, 222, 223, 225 

Al (7) 85, 105, 106, 110, 198, 198, 226 

ALAD (1) 88 

albatross (1) 212 

Alberta (3) 38, 193, 226 

Alca torda (26) 22, 22, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 

38, 43, 79, 80, 80, 81, 81, 123, 140, 145, 

151, 171, 178, 184, 185, 186, 200, 203, 203 

Alcedo atthis (1) 70 

aldrin (6) 18, 19, 34, 38, 133, 212 

Alectoris graeca (2) 38, 169 

Aleutian tern (1) 162 

Alle alle (19) 20, 32, 34, 42, 72, 72, 73, 79, 

82, 125, 150, 156, 157, 157, 184, 185, 186, 

205, 222 

American avocet (2) 125, 210 

American bittern (1) 48 

American black duck (4) 125, 136, 226, 229 

American coot (2) 38, 48 

American kestrel (3) 125, 169, 175 

American wigeon (6) 38, 64, 65, 210, 223, 

226 

American woodcock (2) 38, 125 

Anas acuta (9) 38, 129, 130, 136, 137, 195, 

210, 223, 226 

Anas americana (6) 38, 64, 65, 210, 223, 

226 

Anas clypeata (5) 38, 137, 195, 223, 226 

Anas crecca (7) 38, 64, 65, 87, 136, 223, 

226 

Anas discors (3) 38, 210, 226 

Anas penelope (1) 226 

Anas platyrhynchos (21) 38, 52, 64, 65, 87, 

125, 137, 139, 146, 149, 149, 151, 168, 169, 

175, 195, 196, 210, 218, 223, 229 

Anas poecilorhyncha (1) 122 

Anas rubripes (4) 125, 136, 226, 229 

Anas strepera (5) 38, 210, 218, 223, 226 

ancient murrelet (10) 38, 65, 74, 77, 77, 

112, 125, 162, 177, 223 

Anous tenuirostris (1) 141 

Anser albifrons (2) 169, 226 

Anser anser (1) 137 

Anser fabalis (1) 29 

Antarctic petrel (1) 141 

Antarctic prion (1) 141 

Antarctic tern (1) 32 

Aphriza virgata (1) 223 

Aquila chrysaetos (1) 125 

Arctic loon (6) 32, 73, 79, 129, 130, 199 

Arctic Ocean (2) 92, 115 

Arctic skua see parasitic jaeger 

Arctic tern (22) 20, 34, 36, 39, 41, 64, 65, 

128, 129, 130, 136, 138, 139, 141, 162, 184, 

185, 187, 195, 200, 221, 223 

Ardea alba (2) 123, 169 

Ardea cinerea (9) 70, 87, 112, 113, 117, 

122, 137, 153, 195 

Ardea herodias (13) 52, 53, 64, 65, 76, 123, 

125, 127, 159, 184, 194, 210, 223 

Arenaria melanocephala (1) 223 

As (20) 32, 38, 44, 52, 85, 94, 105, 110, 

111, 133, 135, 136, 178, 184, 185, 186, 197, 

198, 225, 226 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

246 

ashy petrel (2) 32, 125 

Asia (20) 22, 29, 30, 32, 56, 57, 73, 112, 

122, 128, 129, 130, 134, 137, 147, 185, 186, 

195, 197, 200 

Asio flammeus (1) 125 

Asio otus (1) 125 

Athene cunicularia (2) 125, 169 

Atlantic Ocean (19) 28, 32, 34, 42, 82, 83, 

90, 91, 111, 125, 133, 150, 151, 170, 186, 

203, 205, 206, 206 

Atlantic petrel (3) 32, 90, 204 

Atlantic puffin (34) 22, 22, 28, 31, 31, 32, 

32, 34, 38, 43, 75, 76, 125, 138, 145, 149, 

151, 164, 164, 167, 169, 170, 171, 178, 184, 

185, 186, 200, 203, 203, 203, 206, 206, 222 

Audouin's gull (3) 20, 83, 139 

Audubon's shearwater (1) 32 

Aukland Island shag (1) 32 

Australasian gannet (2) 32, 141 

Australia (1) 32 

avocet (3) 72, 83, 139 

Aythya affinis (5) 38, 146, 210, 218, 226 

Aythya americana (2) 38, 226 

Aythya collaris (4) 38, 65, 223, 226 

Aythya ferina (2) 137, 195 

Aythya fuligula (4) 81, 137, 195, 229 

Aythya marila (6) 32, 38, 81, 218, 223, 226 

Aythya valisineria (3) 38, 169, 226 

AZ (1) 133 

Azores (1) 151 

B (3) 152, 197, 226 

Ba (3) 85, 198, 225 

Baja (1) 152 

bald eagle (12) 64, 65, 104, 123, 125, 154, 

166, 169, 190, 206, 219, 223 

Baltic Sea (39) 19, 20, 25, 26, 30, 32, 41, 

41, 78, 79, 79, 80, 80, 81, 88, 91, 100, 104, 

115, 116, 117, 120, 122, 123, 127, 130, 133, 

139, 151, 163, 163, 185, 185, 186, 188, 189, 

189, 220, 226 

bar-tailed godwit (3) 56, 57, 122 

Barents Sea (19) 22, 24, 28, 29, 30, 42, 50, 

91, 111, 113, 183, 183, 184, 185, 186, 186, 

186, 211, 185 

barn swallow (1) 169 

Barrow's goldeneye (4) 64, 65, 223, 226 

Bartram's sandpiper (1) 32 

Bartramia longicauda (1) 32 

Bay of Fundy (12) 36, 37, 76, 85, 171, 185, 

206, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229 

bean goose (1) 29 

Belgium (12) 32, 32, 32, 66, 67, 67, 68, 68, 

69, 70, 118, 119 

belted kingfisher (3) 64, 65, 223 

Bengalese finch (1) 169 

benzenes (24) 27, 34, 35, 36, 38, 42, 74, 85, 

86, 98, 98, 102, 118, 133, 146, 146, 153, 

172, 172, 173, 197, 207, 217, 218 

Bering Sea (9) 58, 112, 125, 125, 133, 133, 

208, 208, 209 

Bermuda petrel (2) 32, 125 

bile (1) 41 

bioaccumulation (69) 22, 22, 23, 24, 30, 31, 

36, 37, 39, 45, 49, 51, 52, 53, 58, 59, 61, 62, 

68, 69, 70, 71, 74, 76, 81, 81, 83, 85, 111, 

114, 114, 115, 116, 119, 124, 130, 134, 139, 

140, 141, 151, 153, 155, 156, 159, 160, 176, 

176, 178, 179, 180, 185, 186, 187, 193, 193, 

195, 196, 198, 201, 202, 203, 204, 206, 211, 

212, 215, 216, 216 

biomagnification (121) 18, 19, 20, 20, 23, 

26, 29, 30, 30, 32, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 41, 41, 

41, 42, 44, 48, 52, 53, 54, 56, 59, 61, 62, 63, 

71, 72, 73, 76, 76, 79, 79, 80, 80, 82, 83, 85, 

87, 88, 91, 93, 97, 100, 101, 102, 103, 108, 

110, 111, 112, 113, 113, 114, 116, 116, 117, 

117, 119, 119, 120, 121, 122, 125, 125, 127, 

131, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 141, 144, 

145, 145, 146, 147, 150, 151, 152, 153, 157, 

159, 162, 163, 169, 176, 176, 177, 177, 178, 

178, 179, 180, 183, 187, 189, 195, 195, 196, 

198, 199, 199, 201, 202, 203, 205, 206, 210, 

214, 216, 218, 220, 227, 229, 229 

biomarkers (7) 67, 69, 76, 84, 95, 214, 215 

black-bellied plover (1) 125 

black-bellied storm-petrel (1) 141 

black-billed magpie (3) 64, 65, 223 

black-browed albatross (3) 32, 128, 141 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

247 

black cormorant see cormorant 

black-crowned night-heron (14) 27, 48, 73, 

88, 104, 105, 118, 123, 166, 169, 173, 190, 

210, 218 

black-eared kite (1) 122 

black-footed albatross (9) 28, 32, 112, 123, 

128, 128, 129, 206, 206 

black guillemot (41) 19, 20, 20, 29, 32, 34, 

34, 36, 36, 38, 39, 42, 62, 72, 72, 73, 79, 82, 

91, 113, 130, 135, 145, 147, 149, 150, 153, 

156, 163, 166, 168, 169, 171, 184, 185, 186, 

200, 205, 211, 221, 229 

black-headed gull (24) 19, 22, 23, 23, 25, 

56, 57, 72, 79, 83, 87, 103, 118, 122, 134, 

137, 139, 140, 140, 147, 151, 151, 195, 200 

black-legged kittiwake (68) 19, 20, 22, 22, 

28, 29, 30, 32, 34, 34, 35, 36, 36, 37, 39, 42, 

64, 65, 71, 72, 72, 73, 81, 81, 81, 82, 90, 90, 

101, 103, 109, 111, 112, 113, 140, 145, 150, 

151, 153, 154, 155, 156, 162, 177, 178, 184, 

185, 185, 186, 186, 188, 195, 195, 200, 200, 

201, 203, 203, 205, 209, 216, 216, 220, 221, 

221, 222, 223, 229 

black-necked grebe (5) 56, 57, 83, 122, 139 

black-noddy see white-capped noddy 

black oystercatcher (5) 64, 65, 154, 221, 

223 

black petrel (2) 32, 125 

black scoter (10) 19, 32, 38, 55, 64, 65, 81, 

106, 223, 226 

black skimmer (2) 44, 49 

black-tailed gull (3) 56, 57, 122 

black tern (3) 88, 118, 214 

black-throated diver see Arctic loon 

black turnstone (1) 223 

black-winged petrel (1) 141 

black-winged stilt (2) 83, 139 

blood (33) 50, 50, 51, 51, 53, 53, 58, 84, 88, 

89, 92, 94, 95, 99, 105, 107, 108, 111, 121, 

123, 138, 138, 142, 149, 151, 155, 158, 160, 

161, 164, 211, 213, 225 

blue-eyed shag (1) 32 

blue grouse (1) 38 

blue penguin (2) 32, 141 

blue petrel (1) 141 

blue shag (1) 141 

blue-winged teal (3) 38, 210, 226 

bobwhite quail (2) 169, 175 

body burden (5) 37, 58, 128, 151, 212 

Bonaparte's gull (7) 36, 36, 37, 39, 41, 154, 

223 

Bonasa umbellus (1) 38 

bone (12) 32, 38, 49, 76, 77, 113, 115, 128, 

141, 186, 198, 212 

Botaurus lentiginosus (1) 48 

Bounty Island shag (1) 141 

Br (2) 52, 226 

Brachyramphus brevirostris (1) 223 

Brachyramphus marmoratus (6) 38, 64, 65, 

125, 221, 223 

brain (32) 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 91, 97, 99, 

105, 108, 109, 109, 113, 115, 117, 128, 131, 

134, 140, 160, 164, 177, 177, 186, 186, 187, 

210, 212, 216, 226, 227 

Brandt's cormorant (8) 32, 113, 116, 117, 

123, 177, 198, 227 

brant (1) 226 

Branta bernicla (1) 226 

Branta canadensis (13) 38, 48, 64, 65, 87, 

133, 136, 162, 169, 210, 218, 223, 226 

British Columbia (16) 28, 32, 38, 74, 75, 

76, 77, 77, 100, 127, 133, 159, 184, 206, 

220, 226 

Brittany (2) 66, 215 

broad-billed prion (2) 32, 212 

brown booby (5) 32, 125, 128, 129, 141 

brown pelican (6) 32, 123, 125, 169, 177, 

212 

brown skua (2) 141, 157 

Brünnich's guillemot see thick-billed murre 

Bubo bubo (3) 110, 112, 163 

Bubo virginianus (1) 125 

Bubulcus ibis (2) 152, 152 

Bucephala albeola (6) 38, 64, 65, 218, 223, 

226 

Bucephala clangula (10) 32, 38, 64, 65, 80, 

80, 81, 163, 220, 226 

Bucephala islandica (4) 64, 65, 223, 226 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

248 

bufflehead (6) 38, 64, 65, 218, 223, 226 

Buller's albatross (1) 141 

burrowing owl (2) 125, 169 

Buteo buteo (1) 113 

Buteo jamaicensis (1) 125 

Buteo regalis (1) 125 

Buteo swainsoni (1) 125 

buzzard (1) 113 

C10H6N2Br4Cl2 (2) 206, 206 

CA (13) 52, 63, 116, 117, 165, 177, 177, 

185, 186, 190, 198, 226, 227 

Ca (7) 32, 52, 76, 77, 99, 198, 198 

Calidris alpina (2) 125, 223 

Calidris maritima (4) 32, 34, 59, 229 

Calidris mauri (1) 223 

Calidris minutilla (3) 65, 125, 223 

Calidris ptilocnemis (2) 178, 223 

Calidris tenuirostris (3) 56, 57, 122 

California gull (6) 113, 125, 169, 175, 210, 

227 

California quail (1) 169 

Callipepla californica (1) 169 

Calonectris (1) 212 

Calonectris diomedea (4) 32, 83, 139, 151 

Canada (89) 19, 20, 26, 28, 32, 34, 35, 36, 

36, 36, 37, 37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 42, 54, 55, 56, 

58, 74, 74, 75, 75, 76, 76, 77, 77, 82, 84, 85, 

85, 86, 88, 92, 93, 95, 95, 100, 102, 125, 

126, 127, 127, 133, 133, 135, 136, 136, 145, 

146, 146, 149, 150, 153, 155, 159, 168, 170, 

171, 180, 181, 181, 184, 185, 186, 193, 205, 

206, 206, 210, 210, 213, 213, 214, 214, 215, 

218, 219, 220, 226, 226, 227, 228, 228, 228, 

229, 229 

Canada goose (13) 38, 48, 64, 65, 87, 133, 

136, 162, 169, 210, 218, 223, 226 

canvasback duck (3) 38, 169, 226 

cape gannet (1) 32 

cape pigeon (2) 32, 141 

Capella gallinago see Gallinago gallinago

carcass (39) 24, 32, 36, 37, 37, 38, 39, 41, 

54, 55, 61, 61, 62, 71, 81, 96, 97, 97, 99, 

111, 115, 119, 125, 125, 127, 134, 151, 152, 

153, 158, 160, 165, 165, 177, 177, 178, 187, 

191, 194 

carotene (2) 97, 99 

Casmerodius alba see Ardea alba 

Caspian tern (13) 27, 95, 104, 143, 143, 

146, 169, 173, 190, 204, 214, 218, 227 

Cassin's auklet (6) 38, 77, 77, 112, 125, 177 

Catharacta (1) 212 

Catharacta hamiltoni (1) 204 

Catharacta lonnbergi (2) 141, 157 

Catharacta skua (11) 32, 34, 90, 114, 151, 

195, 200, 202, 203, 203, 204 

Cathartes aura (2) 32, 52 

Catoptrophorus semipalmatus (1) 125 

cattle egret (2) 152, 152 

CBC (2) 97, 99 

Cd (72) 19, 24, 32, 32, 38, 43, 44, 44, 44, 

45, 45, 48, 49, 67, 67, 68, 69, 73, 74, 76, 85, 

87, 91, 94, 94, 103, 105, 106, 110, 111, 112, 

113, 114, 118, 124, 128, 129, 130, 133, 133, 

135, 136, 140, 141, 152, 153, 156, 157, 164, 

164, 176, 176, 178, 184, 185, 186, 196, 197, 

198, 198, 201, 212, 213, 213, 214, 215, 215, 

216, 216, 225, 226, 229 

Cepphus columba (12) 38, 53, 64, 65, 116, 

117, 154, 162, 194, 198, 221, 223 

Cepphus grylle (41) 19, 20, 20, 29, 32, 34, 

34, 36, 36, 38, 39, 42, 62, 72, 72, 73, 79, 82, 

91, 113, 130, 135, 145, 147, 149, 150, 153, 

156, 163, 166, 168, 169, 171, 184, 185, 186, 

200, 205, 211, 221, 229 

Cerorhinca monocerata (16) 28, 38, 65, 74, 

75, 77, 77, 112, 116, 117, 125, 177, 198, 

206, 206, 223 

Ceryle alcyon (3) 64, 65, 223 

Charadrius hiaticula (2) 23, 72 

Charadrius semipalmatus (1) 125 

Charadrius vociferus (1) 125 

Chatham Island petrel (1) 141 

Chen caerulescens (2) 38, 226 

Chen rossii (1) 226 

chicken (2) 78, 169 

Chile (1) 83 

China (1) 112 

China Sea (1) 112 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

249 

chinstrap penguin (1) 32 

Chlidonias niger (3) 88, 118, 214 

chlordanes (96) 19, 22, 24, 27, 29, 30, 30, 

34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 42, 50, 51, 51, 54, 55, 56, 

56, 58, 59, 61, 61, 62, 74, 74, 75, 77, 82, 85, 

86, 89, 91, 93, 93, 95, 100, 107, 108, 109, 

113, 116, 116, 118, 125, 125, 130, 131, 133, 

133, 134, 135, 136, 144, 146, 151, 152, 153, 

158, 158, 162, 164, 168, 170, 172, 172, 173, 

178, 179, 180, 181, 183, 183, 186, 190, 192, 

193, 197, 199, 207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 211, 

211, 214, 217, 217, 218, 219, 225, 226, 227, 

229 

chough (1) 191 

chukar (2) 38, 169 

Circus cyaneus (1) 125 

Clangula hyemalis (23) 29, 32, 34, 38, 59, 

64, 65, 72, 81, 87, 87, 106, 123, 128, 129, 

130, 156, 163, 185, 186, 220, 223, 226 

CO (1) 226 

Co (6) 32, 85, 128, 152, 185, 198 

Colinus virginianus (2) 169, 175 

Columba livia (4) 38, 110, 169, 195 

common cormorant see cormorant 

common eider (62) 20, 22, 32, 34, 36, 38, 

39, 41, 41, 54, 59, 63, 72, 72, 72, 73, 78, 80, 

81, 83, 87, 87, 88, 89, 94, 103, 110, 111, 

111, 113, 119, 122, 124, 135, 136, 140, 147, 

153, 156, 157, 157, 157, 171, 174, 178, 180, 

184, 185, 186, 186, 188, 196, 197, 199, 201, 

212, 213, 213, 214, 215, 226, 230 

common goldeneye (10) 32, 38, 64, 65, 80, 

80, 81, 163, 220, 226 

common grackle (1) 169 

common gull (25) 27, 56, 57, 64, 65, 71, 72, 

73, 79, 80, 103, 121, 122, 134, 137, 140, 

147, 154, 162, 165, 195, 200, 214, 221, 223 

common loon (8) 32, 64, 65, 123, 136, 145, 

162, 223 

common merganser (13) 32, 38, 55, 64, 65, 

79, 87, 136, 154, 163, 220, 223, 226 

common moorhen (1) 38 

common murre (99) 19, 19, 20, 21, 22, 22, 

25, 26, 28, 28, 31, 31, 32, 32, 32, 32, 34, 38, 

55, 58, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 

71, 79, 80, 80, 81, 81, 81, 90, 91, 103, 104, 

112, 115, 116, 116, 117, 117, 118, 119, 120, 

121, 123, 125, 127, 127, 133, 140, 145, 151, 

151, 156, 161, 162, 163, 163, 165, 167, 169, 

171, 174, 175, 177, 178, 184, 185, 186, 187, 

188, 188, 189, 189, 195, 196, 198, 200, 201, 

203, 203, 204, 208, 208, 209, 215, 216, 220, 

220, 221, 222, 223 

common pigeon (4) 38, 110, 169, 195 

common puffin see Atlantic puffin 

common quail see Japanese quail 

common raven (6) 32, 34, 59, 64, 65, 223 

common scoter see black scoter 

common snipe (2) 38, 125 

common teal see green-winged teal 

common tern (39) 20, 22, 23, 23, 23, 27, 32, 

36, 39, 44, 49, 56, 57, 72, 83, 88, 90, 104, 

122, 125, 137, 139, 146, 147, 151, 151, 166, 

169, 171, 173, 178, 187, 190, 195, 200, 202, 

210, 210, 218 

Cook's petrel (1) 141 

Cooper’s hawk (1) 125 

coot (5) 32, 80, 83, 139, 210 

cormorant (21) 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 59, 70, 

72, 83, 122, 123, 139, 140, 141, 151, 156, 

163, 178, 191, 200, 225 

cormorants (1) 212 

Corvus caurinus (3) 64, 65, 223 

Corvus corax (6) 32, 34, 59, 64, 65, 223 

Corvus cornix (1) 147 

Cory's shearwater (4) 32, 83, 139, 151 

Coturnix coturnix (4) 68, 169, 175, 190 

Cr (24) 19, 32, 38, 44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 47, 

48, 52, 76, 85, 94, 111, 135, 152, 178, 185, 

186, 197, 198, 198, 226 

crane (1) 87 

Craveri's murrelet (1) 125 

crested auklet (1) 112 

Crocethia alba (3) 56, 57, 122 

crow (1) 147 

Cs (2) 38, 128 

CT (2) 131, 226 

Cu (43) 19, 32, 32, 32, 38, 67, 67, 68, 68, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

250 

69, 76, 77, 85, 101, 105, 106, 110, 111, 112, 

118, 124, 128, 129, 130, 135, 135, 141, 157, 

178, 184, 185, 185, 186, 196, 197, 198, 198, 

212, 213, 215, 216, 216, 226 

Cyanocitta stelleri (3) 64, 65, 223 

Cyclorrhynchus psittacula see Aethia 

psittacula 

Cygnus cygnus (1) 87 

Cygnus olor (3) 87, 140, 169 

CYP1A (7) 76, 91, 107, 153, 179, 192, 192 

cytochrome P450 (9) 91, 107, 137, 153, 168, 

184, 190, 200, 204 

Danube Delta (1) 83 

Daption capense (2) 32, 141 

Daurian redstart (1) 195 

DDTs (185) 18, 19, 22, 22, 23, 24, 25, 25, 

26, 26, 27, 28, 29, 29, 30, 30, 31, 32, 34, 34, 

35, 36, 37, 38, 41, 42, 50, 51, 51, 54, 55, 56, 

58, 58, 59, 59, 60, 60, 61, 61, 62, 74, 74, 75, 

77, 79, 79, 80, 81, 81, 83, 83, 83, 84, 85, 85, 

86, 88, 88, 89, 91, 91, 93, 93, 95, 95, 97, 97, 

99, 100, 102, 103, 104, 105, 107, 108, 109, 

112, 113, 113, 114, 116, 116, 117, 118, 119, 

124, 125, 125, 125, 130, 131, 133, 133, 133, 

134, 134, 135, 136, 138, 139, 140, 146, 147, 

149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 153, 155, 156, 157, 

158, 158, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 164, 

165, 165, 166, 168, 169, 170, 170, 171, 171, 

172, 172, 173, 175, 175, 177, 177, 178, 178, 

179, 180, 181, 183, 183, 185, 185, 186, 186, 

187, 187, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 197, 198, 

199, 199, 200, 201, 207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 

210, 211, 211, 214, 217, 217, 218, 219, 225, 

226, 227, 227, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229, 230 

Dendragapus canadensis (1) 38 

Dendragapus obscurus (1) 38 

Denmark (4) 19, 32, 83, 124 

dieldrin (85) 18, 19, 24, 26, 32, 34, 35, 36, 

37, 38, 42, 54, 55, 58, 58, 60, 60, 61, 62, 74, 

74, 75, 77, 83, 85, 85, 86, 88, 89, 91, 93, 93, 

95, 97, 103, 125, 131, 133, 133, 135, 136, 

140, 144, 146, 151, 152, 153, 156, 158, 158, 

162, 164, 164, 165, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 

172, 173, 175, 177, 178, 178, 181, 190, 191, 

193, 197, 198, 199, 207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 

212, 217, 217, 218, 219, 225, 226, 228 

Diomedea bulleri (1) 141 

Diomedea cauta (3) 128, 129, 141 

Diomedea cauta salvini (1) 141 

Diomedea chlororhynchos (3) 128, 129, 

204 

Diomedea chrysostoma (2) 128, 141 

Diomedea epomophora (4) 128, 128, 129, 

141 

Diomedea exulans (3) 32, 141, 204 

Diomedea immutabilis (5) 32, 112, 123, 

128, 200 

Diomedea melanophris (3) 32, 128, 141 

Diomedea nigripes (9) 28, 32, 112, 123, 

128, 128, 129, 206, 206 

disease (3) 93, 100, 106 

diver see red-throated loon 

diving petrel (2) 32, 141 

domestic fowl (1) 137 

dosing study (32) 43, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 49, 

52, 52, 58, 68, 78, 97, 99, 137, 138, 138, 

148, 148, 149, 149, 149, 166, 166, 167, 167, 

167, 168, 168, 175, 204, 207 

double-crested cormorant (76) 19, 27, 32, 

36, 39, 48, 52, 53, 61, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 

74, 75, 76, 76, 84, 86, 92, 96, 97, 97, 97, 99, 

100, 104, 105, 105, 109, 110, 115, 119, 123, 

123, 125, 133, 134, 136, 143, 143, 146, 147, 

152, 152, 159, 162, 166, 170, 171, 172, 173, 

180, 181, 184, 190, 193, 194, 194, 204, 205, 

210, 210, 218, 220, 223, 224, 227, 227, 228, 

228, 228, 229, 229 

dovekie see little auk 

dunlin (2) 125, 223 

eagle owl (3) 110, 112, 163 

eared grebe (2) 48, 210 

EDCs (2) 104, 190 

effects (173) 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 32, 32, 

32, 40, 42, 43, 45, 45, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 50, 

50, 52, 52, 53, 55, 55, 60, 61, 61, 64, 65, 66, 

67, 67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 76, 78, 81, 83, 84, 84, 

85, 86, 88, 89, 89, 91, 91, 91, 93, 93, 93, 94, 

97, 99, 100, 102, 104, 105, 105, 106, 107, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

251 

107, 108, 109, 111, 112, 113, 115, 125, 126, 

127, 127, 131, 132, 133, 133, 135, 135, 136, 

137, 138, 138, 138, 140, 140, 142, 143, 143, 

145, 147, 148, 148, 149, 149, 149, 151, 151, 

153, 153, 154, 159, 161, 161, 165, 165, 166, 

166, 166, 167, 167, 167, 168, 168, 168, 169, 

170, 174, 175, 175, 177, 179, 181, 181, 182, 

183, 184, 186, 187, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 

192, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 196, 197, 198, 

199, 200, 200, 203, 204, 205, 207, 210, 210, 

211, 212, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 219, 220, 

221, 221, 222, 223, 224, 224, 225, 227, 227 

egg (190) 18, 22, 22, 23, 23, 23, 24, 25, 25, 

26, 26, 27, 27, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37, 37, 38, 41, 

42, 44, 44, 45, 48, 49, 53, 53, 55, 58, 58, 60, 

60, 61, 61, 62, 72, 74, 75, 75, 76, 77, 79, 81, 

81, 81, 83, 83, 85, 88, 88, 91, 92, 93, 93, 93, 

94, 94, 95, 96, 97, 97, 98, 98, 98, 100, 101, 

102, 102, 103, 105, 105, 114, 116, 116, 117, 

117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 123, 123, 124, 125, 

127, 127, 130, 131, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 

136, 136, 137, 138, 139, 139, 140, 142, 143, 

143, 144, 146, 146, 147, 147, 150, 151, 151, 

153, 153, 155, 155, 156, 158, 158, 159, 159, 

160, 160, 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 169, 

170, 170, 171, 171, 172, 172, 173, 175, 178, 

180, 181, 181, 182, 184, 186, 188, 189, 189, 

191, 191, 193, 193, 194, 194, 195, 197, 198, 

198, 199, 200, 201, 204, 205, 206, 206, 207, 

207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 210, 211, 214, 217, 

217, 218, 219, 220, 220, 224, 225, 227, 227, 

228, 228, 228, 229, 229 

eggshell (1) 45 

eggshell thickness (26) 19, 25, 27, 53, 60, 

61, 61, 83, 104, 105, 125, 147, 153, 166, 

169, 171, 177, 181, 181, 190, 193, 194, 199, 

210, 217, 225 

Egretta alba (1) 151 

Egretta garzetta (3) 83, 122, 139 

Egretta thula (2) 105, 123 

Egretta tricolor (1) 196 

elegant tern (1) 125 

elimination (18) 23, 36, 37, 39, 41, 45, 109, 

112, 122, 129, 140, 141, 158, 160, 178, 196, 

212, 226 

embryo (1) 62 

endrin (7) 18, 19, 38, 152, 193, 217, 225 

Endomychura craveri see Synthliboramphus 

craveri

energetics (3) 36, 220, 221 

enzymes (10) 55, 137, 167, 167, 168, 169, 

179, 195, 200, 212 

erect-crested penguin (1) 141 

Eremophila alpestris (1) 125 

EROD (30) 55, 61, 61, 62, 63, 76, 78, 91, 

95, 100, 107, 107, 108, 127, 135, 136, 137, 

143, 153, 167, 167, 168, 179, 184, 190, 191, 

192, 192, 200, 204 

Erolia alpina see Calidris alpina 

Erolia minutilla see Calidris minutilla

esophagus (1) 128 

ethylenes (1) 98 

Eudyptes chrysocome (2) 32, 141 

Eudyptes chrysolophus (1) 157 

Eudyptes pachyrhynchus (1) 141 

Eudyptes sclateri (1) 141 

Eudyptula albosignata (1) 32 

Eudyptula minor (2) 32, 141 

Eurasian wigeon (1) 226 

Europe (184) 18, 19, 19, 20, 20, 22, 22, 22, 

23, 23, 23, 24, 24, 25, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 

30, 30, 31, 32, 32, 32, 32, 34, 41, 41, 42, 43, 

50, 50, 51, 51, 55, 55, 60, 60, 62, 63, 66, 66, 

67, 67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 71, 71, 72, 78, 79, 79, 

80, 80, 80, 81, 81, 81, 81, 83, 83, 87, 87, 88, 

90, 90, 91, 91, 91, 100, 101, 103, 104, 107, 

107, 108, 108, 109, 109, 110, 111, 111, 112, 

113, 113, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 119, 120, 

121, 121, 121, 122, 123, 124, 124, 127, 130, 

133, 135, 138, 139, 139, 140, 140, 140, 142, 

145, 147, 150, 151, 151, 153, 155, 156, 157, 

157, 157, 161, 163, 163, 164, 164, 164, 165, 

165, 174, 175, 175, 177, 178, 179, 180, 182, 

182, 183, 183, 184, 185, 185, 186, 186, 186, 

187, 188, 189, 189, 189, 191, 192, 192, 195, 

195, 196, 199, 200, 201, 202, 202, 203, 203, 

203, 204, 211, 212, 212, 215, 216, 216, 220, 

224, 225, 226, 229, 229, 230, 185 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

252 

European shag see shag 

European storm-petrel see storm-petrel 

European wigeon see Eurasian wigeon 

eyeball (1) 128 

fairy prion (2) 32, 141 

Falcipennis canadensis see Dendragapus

canadensis

Falco columbarius (2) 125, 169 

Falco mexicanus (1) 125 

Falco peregrinus (5) 32, 74, 169, 177, 223 

Falco rusticolus (1) 229 

Falco sparverius (3) 125, 169, 175 

Faroe Islands (2) 20, 186 

fat (42) 28, 29, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 34, 38, 

41, 41, 41, 42, 56, 57, 58, 59, 66, 79, 79, 80, 

80, 81, 82, 96, 108, 109, 125, 125, 125, 128, 

140, 150, 157, 164, 177, 186, 186, 193, 210, 

215, 229 

Fe (24) 19, 32, 38, 52, 67, 67, 69, 76, 77, 

85, 101, 105, 106, 110, 111, 112, 118, 129, 

130, 135, 197, 198, 198, 226 

feather (51) 19, 20, 20, 22, 23, 32, 36, 36, 

37, 38, 39, 44, 45, 48, 49, 49, 52, 53, 73, 90, 

90, 91, 99, 105, 110, 121, 125, 128, 128, 

129, 130, 136, 140, 141, 151, 164, 193, 195, 

198, 202, 202, 203, 203, 203, 204, 207, 212, 

215, 216, 216, 226 

feces (5) 36, 41, 99, 101, 151 

feral pigeon see common pigeon 

Ferruginous hawk (1) 125 

Finland (13) 79, 88, 100, 111, 124, 130, 

133, 138, 139, 165, 185, 186, 199 

Fiordland crested penguin (1) 141 

FL (1) 226 

flesh-footed shearwater (1) 141 

fork-tailed storm petrel (9) 28, 32, 64, 65, 

74, 77, 77, 162, 223 

Forster's tern (11) 27, 44, 49, 104, 118, 132, 

166, 169, 173, 190, 194 

France (2) 32, 69 

Franklin's Gull (3) 48, 123, 210 

Fratercula arctica (34) 22, 22, 28, 31, 31, 

32, 32, 34, 38, 43, 75, 76, 125, 138, 145, 

149, 151, 164, 164, 167, 169, 170, 171, 178, 

184, 185, 186, 200, 203, 203, 203, 206, 206, 

222 

Fratercula cirrhata (9) 28, 38, 64, 65, 112, 

162, 220, 221, 223 

Fratercula corniculata (5) 28, 65, 112, 162, 

223 

Fregata magnificens (1) 32 

Fregata minor (1) 141 

Fregetta tropica (1) 141 

Fulica americana (2) 38, 48 

Fulica atra (5) 32, 80, 83, 139, 210 

fulmar prion (1) 141 

fulmars (1) 212 

Fulmarus (1) 212 

Fulmarus glacialis (50) 20, 28, 28, 32, 34, 

35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 55, 65, 70, 71, 72, 72, 73, 

75, 82, 90, 111, 112, 125, 128, 128, 129, 

142, 145, 145, 150, 153, 155, 156, 157, 157, 

162, 164, 164, 177, 184, 185, 186, 200, 200, 

202, 203, 203, 203, 204, 222 

GA (1) 226 

gadwall (5) 38, 210, 218, 223, 226 

gallbladder (2) 41, 128 

Gallinago gallinago (2) 38, 125 

Gallinula chloropus (1) 38 

Gallinula comeri (1) 32 

Gallus domesticus (2) 78, 169 

Gallus gallus (1) 137 

gannet (14) 32, 34, 60, 81, 81, 123, 125, 

145, 153, 178, 186, 200, 203, 212 

Gavia (1) 221 

Gavia adamsii (3) 32, 65, 223 

Gavia arctica (6) 32, 73, 79, 129, 130, 199 

Gavia immer (8) 32, 64, 65, 123, 136, 145, 

162, 223 

Gavia pacifica (1) 223 

Gavia stellata (10) 32, 79, 80, 103, 123, 

123, 129, 130, 200, 223 

gender differences (37) 31, 37, 39, 42, 45, 

50, 59, 68, 69, 79, 81, 97, 99, 109, 111, 114, 

115, 124, 134, 138, 140, 153, 156, 157, 160, 

169, 185, 196, 197, 199, 211, 214, 225, 226, 

229, 229, 230 

Germany (22) 22, 23, 23, 23, 24, 71, 72, 90, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

253 

103, 121, 122, 140, 151, 164, 174, 182, 187, 

201, 202, 215, 216, 229 

gizzard (1) 131 

gland (11) 32, 38, 85, 119, 125, 128, 140, 

149, 168, 175, 226 

glaucous gull (52) 20, 22, 24, 28, 29, 32, 

34, 34, 42, 42, 50, 50, 51, 51, 59, 62, 65, 72, 

72, 73, 82, 91, 91, 101, 107, 107, 108, 108, 

109, 113, 121, 129, 130, 147, 150, 156, 157, 

157, 176, 176, 182, 183, 183, 184, 185, 186, 

186, 192, 192, 205, 211, 223 

glaucous-winged gull (18) 30, 36, 53, 64, 

65, 74, 75, 112, 153, 154, 162, 169, 190, 

194, 206, 206, 220, 223 

golden eagle (1) 125 

golden plover (1) 229 

gonad (6) 38, 128, 134, 164, 216, 226 

goosander see common merganser 

goose (1) 137 

goshawk (1) 110 

gough gallinule (1) 32 

great black-backed gull (16) 32, 34, 44, 60, 

70, 118, 123, 136, 172, 185, 186, 196, 199, 

200, 219, 229 

great blue heron (13) 52, 53, 64, 65, 76, 

123, 125, 127, 159, 184, 194, 210, 223 

Great Britain (26) 31, 32, 32, 34, 60, 60, 63, 

79, 90, 145, 151, 153, 156, 175, 175, 177, 

178, 185, 186, 189, 191, 195, 202, 203, 225, 

226 

great cormorant see cormorant 

great crested grebe (5) 32, 70, 79, 87, 123 

great egret (2) 123, 169 

great frigatebird (1) 141 

great horned owl (1) 125 

great knot (3) 56, 57, 122 

Great Lakes (91) 26, 27, 30, 37, 58, 58, 61, 

61, 62, 75, 76, 84, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 92, 

93, 93, 93, 95, 95, 97, 98, 98, 98, 101, 102, 

102, 103, 104, 109, 114, 115, 118, 119, 123, 

123, 126, 127, 131, 131, 132, 133, 136, 142, 

143, 143, 144, 146, 147, 158, 158, 159, 160, 

160, 166, 169, 170, 171, 172, 172, 173, 175, 

181, 184, 185, 186, 190, 191, 193, 194, 197, 

198, 198, 201, 204, 205, 206, 207, 207, 210, 

217, 217, 218, 219, 224, 226, 227 

great cormorant see cormorant 

great shearwater (4) 32, 34, 90, 125 

great skua (11) 32, 34, 90, 114, 151, 195, 

200, 202, 203, 203, 204 

great-tailed grackle (2) 152, 152 

great white egret (1) 151 

great white pelican (2) 83, 139 

great-winged petrel see grey-faced petrel 

greater scaup (6) 32, 38, 81, 218, 223, 226 

greater yellowlegs (1) 223 

green-winged teal (7) 38, 64, 65, 87, 136, 

223, 226 

Greenland (19) 19, 20, 34, 42, 59, 59, 72, 

72, 73, 82, 111, 133, 150, 156, 176, 176, 

186, 205, 211 

greenshank (3) 56, 57, 122 

grey-backed storm-petrel (1) 141 

grey-faced petrel (1) 141 

grey-headed albatross (2) 128, 141 

grey heron (9) 70, 87, 112, 113, 117, 122, 

137, 153, 195 

grey partridge (2) 38, 169 

grey petrel (4) 32, 128, 129, 141 

Grus canadensis (1) 223 

Grus grus (1) 87 

Guanay cormorant (2) 113, 227 

guillemot see common murre 

Gulf of Alaska (7) 58, 112, 133, 133, 208, 

208, 209 

gull (1) 181 

gull-billed tern (3) 83, 139, 200 

gulls (1) 212 

gut (2) 121, 164 

gyrfalcon (1) 229 

Haematopus bachmani (5) 64, 65, 154, 221, 

223 

Haematopus ostralegus (8) 23, 23, 32, 72, 

103, 114, 140, 151 

Haliaeetus albicilla (9) 32, 80, 112, 115, 

117, 120, 123, 130, 163 

Haliaeetus leucocephalus (12) 64, 65, 104, 

123, 125, 154, 166, 169, 190, 206, 219, 223 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

254 

Halobaena caerulea (1) 141 

Halocyptena microsoma see Oceanodroma 

microsoma

harlequin duck (9) 34, 59, 64, 65, 154, 220, 

221, 223, 226 

HBCD (1) 127 

HCB (95) 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 26, 29, 30, 

30, 37, 38, 42, 50, 51, 51, 56, 58, 59, 61, 61, 

74, 75, 77, 79, 79, 80, 81, 83, 86, 89, 91, 93, 

93, 95, 98, 98, 100, 103, 107, 108, 109, 113, 

116, 118, 130, 133, 135, 146, 146, 150, 152, 

157, 158, 158, 159, 162, 164, 165, 168, 169, 

170, 170, 172, 172, 173, 178, 179, 180, 181, 

183, 183, 186, 187, 192, 193, 197, 198, 199, 

200, 207, 208, 208, 209, 211, 211, 217, 217, 

218, 219, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230 

HCHs (79) 18, 19, 22, 22, 23, 24, 26, 29, 

29, 30, 30, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 42, 51, 54, 

55, 56, 58, 59, 59, 74, 74, 75, 77, 79, 80, 81, 

83, 89, 91, 100, 108, 113, 115, 116, 122, 

125, 125, 130, 133, 134, 136, 146, 147, 150, 

151, 152, 153, 158, 164, 170, 172, 172, 173, 

174, 179, 180, 186, 187, 192, 193, 199, 200, 

207, 208, 210, 211, 217, 218, 225, 226, 227, 

229, 230 

HDBPs (1) 205 

heart (7) 39, 70, 97, 119, 128, 134, 186 

herring gull (183) 22, 22, 22, 23, 23, 23, 24, 

25, 26, 27, 27, 32, 34, 36, 37, 42, 43, 44, 44, 

44, 45, 45, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 49, 49, 52, 55, 

56, 57, 58, 58, 64, 65, 72, 75, 75, 76, 76, 79, 

81, 81, 81, 83, 84, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 87, 

88, 90, 92, 93, 93, 93, 94, 95, 95, 97, 98, 98, 

98, 100, 101, 102, 102, 103, 103, 104, 114, 

114, 118, 119, 122, 123, 123, 124, 125, 126, 

127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 131, 131, 134, 136, 

137, 137, 138, 138, 139, 139, 140, 140, 140, 

142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 146, 147, 148, 148, 

149, 149, 150, 151, 151, 158, 158, 159, 160, 

160, 163, 164, 165, 166, 166, 167, 167, 167, 

168, 168, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 172, 173, 

175, 178, 179, 180, 180, 181, 182, 184, 185, 

185, 185, 186, 190, 191, 191, 193, 194, 195, 

197, 198, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 204, 206, 

206, 207, 207, 210, 210, 214, 217, 217, 218, 

219, 223, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229, 229 

Heteroscelus incanus (3) 64, 65, 223 

Hg (133) 19, 20, 20, 20, 22, 22, 22, 23, 23, 

24, 32, 32, 34, 35, 36, 36, 36, 37, 38, 39, 44, 

44, 44, 45, 45, 48, 52, 53, 56, 58, 63, 67, 69, 

70, 72, 72, 73, 73, 74, 76, 77, 80, 81, 85, 88, 

88, 90, 90, 91, 93, 93, 94, 94, 97, 103, 105, 

105, 106, 110, 110, 111, 112, 112, 114, 116, 

118, 119, 119, 121, 124, 125, 128, 128, 129, 

129, 130, 131, 133, 133, 135, 135, 136, 139, 

140, 140, 141, 151, 153, 156, 156, 157, 157, 

161, 164, 164, 165, 171, 176, 176, 178, 181, 

184, 185, 186, 195, 196, 197, 198, 198, 199, 

200, 201, 202, 202, 203, 203, 203, 204, 209, 

212, 213, 213, 214, 214, 215, 215, 216, 216, 

217, 218, 225, 226, 227 

Himantopus himantopus (2) 83, 139 

Hirundo rustica (1) 169 

histopathology (5) 67, 105, 106, 157, 213 

Histrionicus histrionicus (9) 34, 59, 64, 65, 

154, 220, 221, 223, 226 

hooded merganser (3) 38, 55, 226 

horned grebe (9) 32, 64, 65, 79, 80, 137, 

195, 210, 223 

horned lark (1) 125 

horned puffin (5) 28, 65, 112, 162, 223 

hudsonian godwit (1) 223 

Hutton's shearwater (1) 141 

Hydrobates pelagicus (5) 28, 32, 34, 43, 

200 

hydrocarbons (11) 41, 89, 102, 133, 137, 

167, 175, 184, 190, 191, 193 

IA (1) 226 

Hydroprogne caspia see Sterna caspia

Iceland (4) 133, 203, 229, 230 

Iceland gull (6) 59, 65, 72, 72, 73, 156 

ID (1) 52 

IL (1) 226 

immunology (6) 40, 95, 192, 211, 214, 215 

imperial shag see blue-eyed shag 

Indian Ocean (3) 128, 128, 129 

intestine (8) 38, 41, 109, 127, 128, 182, 

192, 192 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

255 

Ireland (6) 31, 32, 151, 151, 185, 225 

Irish Sea (4) 18, 32, 140, 165 

Italy (3) 83, 139, 140 

ivory gull (7) 42, 72, 73, 75, 82, 150, 156 

jackass penguin (1) 32 

Japan (5) 30, 32, 73, 112, 122 

Japanese cormorant (1) 112 

Japanese quail (4) 68, 169, 175, 190 

K (1) 198 

Kattegat (3) 20, 32, 91 

Kerguelen petrel (3) 32, 90, 141 

kidney (65) 20, 32, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41, 43, 

67, 67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 72, 72, 73, 76, 77, 80, 

85, 87, 87, 91, 97, 105, 105, 106, 110, 112, 

113, 114, 119, 119, 122, 127, 128, 128, 129, 

130, 133, 135, 137, 140, 141, 142, 149, 151, 

156, 157, 164, 164, 196, 197, 198, 212, 213, 

213, 214, 215, 215, 216, 216, 226, 229 

killdeer (1) 125 

king eider (16) 34, 59, 72, 72, 73, 129, 130, 

153, 156, 184, 185, 186, 197, 213, 225, 226 

king shag (1) 141 

kingfisher (1) 70 

kittiwakes (1) 212 

Kittlitz’s murrelet (1) 223 

Korea (3) 56, 57, 122 

LA (1) 226 

Labrador (1) 135 

Lagopus lagopus (3) 38, 41, 136 

Lagopus mutus (3) 34, 59, 229 

lapwing (1) 137 

Larus (1) 212 

Larus argentatus (183) 22, 22, 22, 23, 23, 

23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 27, 32, 34, 36, 37, 42, 43, 

44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 49, 49, 

52, 55, 56, 57, 58, 58, 64, 65, 72, 75, 75, 76, 

76, 79, 81, 81, 81, 83, 84, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 

86, 87, 88, 90, 92, 93, 93, 93, 94, 95, 95, 97, 

98, 98, 98, 100, 101, 102, 102, 103, 103, 

104, 114, 114, 118, 119, 122, 123, 123, 124, 

125, 126, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 131, 131, 

134, 136, 137, 137, 138, 138, 139, 139, 140, 

140, 140, 142, 143, 144, 145, 146, 146, 147, 

148, 148, 149, 149, 150, 151, 151, 158, 158, 

159, 160, 160, 163, 164, 165, 166, 166, 167, 

167, 167, 168, 168, 168, 169, 170, 171, 172, 

172, 173, 175, 178, 179, 180, 180, 181, 182, 

184, 185, 185, 185, 186, 190, 191, 191, 193, 

194, 195, 197, 198, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 

204, 206, 206, 207, 207, 210, 210, 214, 217, 

217, 218, 219, 223, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229, 

229 

Larus atricilla (2) 169, 196 

Larus audouinii (3) 20, 83, 139 

Larus brevirostris see Rissa brevirostris 

Larus cachinnans (1) 20 

Larus californicus (6) 113, 125, 169, 175, 

210, 227 

Larus canus (25) 27, 56, 57, 64, 65, 71, 72, 

73, 79, 80, 103, 121, 122, 134, 137, 140, 

147, 154, 162, 165, 195, 200, 214, 221, 223 

Larus crassirostris (3) 56, 57, 122 

Larus delawarensis (9) 27, 104, 123, 169, 

172, 173, 181, 190, 218 

Larus dominicanus (1) 141 

Larus fuscus (12) 25, 32, 34, 90, 100, 135, 

169, 178, 185, 186, 200, 204 

Larus genei (2) 83, 139 

Larus glaucescens (18) 30, 36, 53, 64, 65, 

74, 75, 112, 153, 154, 162, 169, 190, 194, 

206, 206, 220, 223 

Larus glaucoides (6) 59, 65, 72, 72, 73, 156 

Larus hyperboreus (52) 20, 22, 24, 28, 29, 

32, 34, 34, 42, 42, 50, 50, 51, 51, 59, 62, 65, 

72, 72, 73, 82, 91, 91, 101, 107, 107, 108, 

108, 109, 113, 121, 129, 130, 147, 150, 156, 

157, 157, 176, 176, 182, 183, 183, 184, 185, 

186, 186, 192, 192, 205, 211, 223 

Larus marinus (16) 32, 34, 44, 60, 70, 118, 

123, 136, 172, 185, 186, 196, 199, 200, 219, 

229 

Larus melanocephalus (1) 200 

Larus minutus (2) 32, 79 

Larus novaehollandiae (3) 141, 151, 169 

Larus occidentalis (4) 125, 169, 177, 190 

Larus philadelphia (7) 36, 36, 37, 39, 41, 

154, 223 

Larus pipixcan (3) 48, 123, 210 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

256 

Larus ridibundus (24) 19, 22, 23, 23, 25, 

56, 57, 72, 79, 83, 87, 103, 118, 122, 134, 

137, 139, 140, 140, 147, 151, 151, 195, 200 

Larus sabini (2) 129, 130 

laughing gull (2) 169, 196 

Laysan albatross (5) 32, 112, 123, 128, 200 

Leach's storm-petrel (23) 28, 32, 43, 52, 52, 

74, 75, 76, 77, 77, 125, 162, 167, 168, 168, 

169, 170, 171, 175, 200, 206, 206, 207 

least auklet (1) 112 

least petrel (2) 32, 125 

least sandpiper (3) 65, 125, 223 

lesser black-backed gull (12) 25, 32, 34, 90, 

100, 135, 169, 178, 185, 186, 200, 204 

lesser noddy see white-capped noddy 

lesser scaup (5) 38, 146, 210, 218, 226 

lesser yellowlegs (2) 125, 223 

Leucocarbo atriceps (1) 141 

Leucocarbo ranfurlyi (1) 141 

Li (2) 128, 226 

light-mantled sooty albatross (3) 128, 129, 

141 

Limnodromus griseus (1) 125 

Limosa fedoa (1) 125 

Limosa haemastica (1) 223 

Limosa lapponica (3) 56, 57, 122 

little auk (19) 20, 32, 34, 42, 72, 72, 73, 79, 

82, 125, 150, 156, 157, 157, 184, 185, 186, 

205, 222 

little egret (3) 83, 122, 139 

little grebe (1) 70 

little gull (2) 32, 79 

little pied cormorant see litte shag 

little shag (1) 141 

little shearwater (1) 141 

little tern (7) 32, 56, 57, 83, 139, 151, 200 

liver (174) 19, 20, 24, 28, 29, 30, 32, 32, 32, 

34, 36, 37, 37, 37, 38, 39, 41, 41, 42, 42, 43, 

49, 53, 53, 59, 61, 62, 63, 63, 66, 67, 67, 68, 

68, 69, 70, 72, 72, 73, 76, 76, 77, 78, 79, 79, 

80, 80, 80, 82, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 87, 87, 

89, 91, 91, 92, 95, 97, 97, 100, 103, 105, 

105, 106, 107, 107, 108, 108, 109, 109, 110, 

111, 112, 113, 113, 113, 114, 115, 118, 119, 

119, 122, 122, 123, 126, 127, 128, 128, 129, 

129, 130, 131, 133, 135, 135, 136, 137, 138, 

139, 140, 140, 140, 141, 142, 145, 145, 147, 

149, 151, 152, 155, 156, 157, 157, 157, 160, 

164, 164, 165, 167, 167, 168, 169, 174, 175, 

176, 176, 177, 178, 178, 179, 180, 182, 183, 

183, 184, 185, 185, 186, 186, 192, 192, 195, 

196, 197, 198, 199, 200, 201, 204, 205, 206, 

210, 211, 212, 212, 213, 213, 214, 214, 215, 

215, 216, 216, 220, 226, 227, 229, 230 

Lobipes lobatus see Phalaropus lobatus

Lonchura domestica (1) 169 

long-billed curlew (1) 125 

long-eared owl (1) 125 

long-tailed duck (23) 29, 32, 34, 38, 59, 64, 

65, 72, 81, 87, 87, 106, 123, 128, 129, 130, 

156, 163, 185, 186, 220, 223, 226 

long-tailed jaeger (4) 129, 130, 141, 223 

Loomelania melania see Oceanodroma 

melania

loons (1) 221 

Lophodytes cucullatus (3) 38, 55, 226 

Lophortyx californica see Callipepla 

californica

Louisiana heron (1) 196 

Lugensa brevirostris see Pterodroma 

brevirostris

lung (4) 119, 128, 215, 216 

MA (3) 32, 186, 226 

macaroni penguin (1) 157 

Macronectes giganteus (2) 32, 141 

Macronectes halli (3) 128, 129, 141 

magellanic penguin (1) 32 

magnificent frigatebird (1) 32 

malathion (1) 169 

mallard (21) 38, 52, 64, 65, 87, 125, 137, 

139, 146, 149, 149, 151, 168, 169, 175, 195, 

196, 210, 218, 223, 229 

Manitoba (5) 19, 38, 41, 136, 226 

Manx shearwater (8) 32, 34, 43, 90, 164, 

164, 200, 203 

marbled godwit (1) 125 

marbled murrelet (6) 38, 64, 65, 125, 221, 

223 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

257 

marsh hawk (1) 125 

marsh sandpiper (1) 137 

masked booby (1) 32 

ME (5) 134, 149, 185, 199, 226 

Mediterranean gull (1) 200 

Mediterranean Sea (4) 20, 83, 139, 151 

Megadyptes antipodes (1) 141 

Melanitta (1) 221 

Melanitta fusca (10) 32, 38, 64, 65, 80, 81, 

106, 133, 223, 226 

Melanitta nigra (10) 19, 32, 38, 55, 64, 65, 

81, 106, 223, 226 

Melanitta perspicillata (8) 38, 64, 65, 106, 

133, 220, 223, 226 

Meleagris gallopavo (1) 169 

Mergus merganser (13) 32, 38, 55, 64, 65, 

79, 87, 136, 154, 163, 220, 223, 226 

Mergus serrator (14) 32, 38, 63, 64, 65, 72, 

79, 87, 136, 140, 156, 163, 223, 226 

merlin see pigeon hawk 

metabolism (18) 30, 32, 41, 41, 52, 72, 97, 

109, 114, 115, 122, 125, 137, 142, 148, 174, 

195, 212 

metallothionein (8) 32, 32, 68, 69, 76, 77, 

114, 153 

metals (159) 19, 19, 20, 20, 20, 22, 22, 22, 

23, 23, 24, 32, 32, 32, 34, 35, 36, 36, 36, 37, 

38, 39, 43, 43, 44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 46, 46, 47, 

47, 48, 48, 49, 49, 52, 53, 55, 56, 58, 63, 67, 

67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 72, 72, 73, 73, 74, 76, 77, 

80, 81, 85, 87, 87, 88, 88, 89, 90, 90, 91, 93, 

93, 94, 94, 97, 99, 101, 103, 105, 105, 106, 

110, 110, 111, 112, 112, 113, 114, 116, 118, 

119, 119, 121, 124, 125, 128, 128, 129, 129, 

130, 131, 133, 133, 135, 135, 136, 139, 140, 

140, 141, 151, 152, 153, 156, 156, 157, 157, 

157, 161, 164, 164, 165, 171, 176, 176, 178, 

181, 184, 185, 185, 186, 186, 195, 196, 197, 

198, 198, 199, 200, 201, 202, 202, 203, 203, 

203, 204, 209, 212, 213, 213, 214, 214, 215, 

215, 216, 216, 217, 218, 225, 226, 227, 229 

methylparathion (1) 169 

Mexico (3) 125, 152, 152 

MFOs (6) 137, 166, 167, 167, 168, 169 

Mg (8) 76, 77, 106, 110, 111, 197, 198, 226 

MI (2) 123, 226 

Milvus lineatus (1) 122 

mirex (56) 26, 29, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 42, 55, 

58, 58, 61, 61, 74, 74, 77, 85, 85, 86, 91, 93, 

93, 95, 102, 107, 108, 109, 133, 136, 144, 

158, 158, 162, 170, 172, 173, 175, 179, 180, 

181, 183, 183, 191, 193, 198, 199, 207, 208, 

208, 209, 217, 217, 218, 219, 226, 228 

MN (4) 19, 48, 61, 226 

Mn (24) 44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 47, 48, 76, 77, 

85, 94, 101, 105, 106, 110, 111, 112, 128, 

129, 130, 185, 185, 197, 198 

MO (1) 226 

Mo (4) 85, 111, 197, 198 

moorhen see gough gallinule 

Morus serrator (2) 32, 141 

mottled petrel (2) 32, 141 

mourning dove (3) 38, 152, 152 

MT (1) 226 

muscle (81) 19, 20, 28, 32, 34, 36, 37, 38, 

39, 41, 41, 42, 53, 67, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 72, 

73, 74, 76, 79, 79, 80, 80, 80, 91, 97, 105, 

110, 112, 113, 115, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 

119, 122, 128, 128, 130, 134, 135, 136, 138, 

139, 140, 140, 140, 146, 151, 156, 160, 163, 

164, 164, 168, 177, 178, 180, 183, 184, 185, 

185, 186, 186, 187, 196, 199, 200, 204, 212, 

215, 216, 220, 226, 230 

mute swan (3) 87, 140, 169 

Mycteria americana (1) 123 

Na (3) 76, 99, 198 

NC (2) 32, 226 

ND (1) 19 

neotropic cormorant see olivaceous 

cormorant 

Nesocichla eremita (1) 32 

Netherlands (5) 32, 55, 66, 113, 212 

New Brunswick (14) 32, 36, 36, 37, 38, 39, 

75, 76, 76, 84, 146, 171, 226, 229 

New Zealand (2) 32, 141 

Newfoundland (13) 38, 58, 74, 75, 76, 127, 

133, 149, 168, 170, 171, 206, 226 

NH (1) 226 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

258 

Ni (11) 32, 38, 52, 85, 101, 135, 178, 185, 

186, 198, 226 

NJ (10) 32, 43, 44, 44, 46, 47, 48, 49, 94, 

226 

NM (2) 53, 133 

North America (230) 19, 19, 20, 20, 21, 26, 

27, 28, 30, 32, 34, 34, 35, 36, 36, 36, 37, 37, 

37, 38, 39, 41, 42, 42, 43, 44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 

46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 49, 49, 52, 53, 53, 54, 

55, 56, 58, 58, 58, 59, 59, 61, 61, 62, 63, 64, 

65, 72, 72, 73, 74, 74, 75, 75, 76, 76, 77, 77, 

82, 84, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 88, 89, 92, 93, 

93, 93, 94, 94, 95, 95, 96, 97, 97, 98, 98, 98, 

99, 100, 101, 102, 102, 103, 104, 105, 105, 

106, 109, 110, 111, 112, 114, 115, 116, 117, 

118, 119, 123, 123, 125, 126, 127, 127, 131, 

131, 131, 132, 133, 133, 133, 134, 135, 136, 

136, 142, 143, 143, 144, 145, 146, 146, 147, 

149, 150, 152, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 158, 

158, 159, 159, 160, 160, 162, 165, 166, 168, 

169, 170, 170, 171, 171, 172, 172, 173, 174, 

175, 176, 176, 177, 177, 178, 180, 181, 181, 

184, 185, 186, 187, 190, 191, 193, 193, 194, 

194, 197, 197, 197, 198, 198, 198, 199, 201, 

204, 205, 205, 206, 206, 207, 207, 208, 208, 

209, 210, 210, 211, 212, 213, 213, 214, 214, 

215, 217, 217, 218, 219, 220, 220, 221, 221, 

222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 226, 227, 227, 227, 

228, 228, 228, 229, 229 

North Sea (29) 19, 20, 23, 23, 24, 32, 32, 

55, 69, 71, 71, 90, 103, 115, 118, 119, 133, 

151, 151, 174, 182, 185, 186, 189, 200, 202, 

216, 224, 229 

northern bobwhite see bobwhite quail 

northern fulmar (50) 20, 28, 28, 32, 34, 35, 

36, 37, 42, 43, 55, 65, 70, 71, 72, 72, 73, 75, 

82, 90, 111, 112, 125, 128, 128, 129, 142, 

145, 145, 150, 153, 155, 156, 157, 157, 162, 

164, 164, 177, 184, 185, 186, 200, 200, 202, 

203, 203, 203, 204, 222 

northern gannet see gannet 

northern giant petrel (3) 128, 129, 141 

northern goshawk see goshawk 

northern harrier see marsh hawk 

northern phalarope see red-necked phalarope 

northern pintail see pintail 

northern shoveler see shoveler 

Northwater Polynya (4) 42, 82, 150, 205 

Northwest Territories (10) 20, 38, 54, 56, 

133, 145, 155, 213, 214, 226 

northwestern crow (3) 64, 65, 223 

Norway (57) 22, 22, 24, 25, 27, 28, 30, 32, 

34, 42, 50, 50, 51, 51, 55, 62, 81, 81, 81, 91, 

91, 101, 107, 107, 108, 108, 109, 109, 110, 

111, 112, 113, 121, 133, 135, 142, 147, 150, 

155, 157, 157, 179, 180, 182, 183, 183, 184, 

185, 186, 186, 186, 192, 192, 195, 203, 211, 

216 

Nova Scotia (7) 38, 76, 146, 171, 206, 226, 

228 

Numenius americanus (1) 125 

Numenius phaeopus (1) 223 

Nunavut (8) 34, 35, 36, 37, 145, 213, 214, 

215 

NV (1) 105 

NY (12) 44, 44, 45, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 49, 

94, 133, 226 

Nycticorax nycticorax (14) 27, 48, 73, 88, 

104, 105, 118, 123, 166, 169, 173, 190, 210, 

218 

Oceanites nereis (1) 141 

Oceanites oceanicus (2) 32, 125 

Oceanodroma furcata (9) 28, 32, 64, 65, 

74, 77, 77, 162, 223 

Oceanodroma homochroa (2) 32, 125 

Oceanodroma leucorhoa (23) 28, 32, 43, 

52, 52, 74, 75, 76, 77, 77, 125, 162, 167, 

168, 168, 169, 170, 171, 175, 200, 206, 206, 

207 

Oceanodroma melania (2) 32, 125 

Oceanodroma microsoma (2) 32, 125 

Oceanodroma monorhis (1) 112 

OCS (14) 25, 38, 42, 55, 58, 86, 146, 150, 

172, 173, 187, 200, 207, 218 

OH (1) 226 

oil (44) 21, 32, 40, 52, 52, 64, 65, 66, 69, 

104, 127, 137, 138, 138, 142, 148, 148, 149, 

149, 154, 161, 165, 166, 166, 167, 167, 167, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

259 

168, 168, 169, 174, 175, 185, 188, 189, 196, 

197, 207, 220, 221, 221, 222, 223, 224 

OK (1) 226 

oldsquaw see long-tailed duck 

olivaceous cormorant (1) 152 

Ontario (8) 32, 38, 76, 88, 133, 181, 210, 

226 

OR (4) 28, 63, 187, 226 

organic Hg (20) 38, 67, 68, 69, 72, 81, 90, 

105, 118, 119, 128, 129, 133, 141, 151, 169, 

203, 204, 213, 213 

organochlorines (274) 18, 19, 22, 22, 23, 

24, 25, 25, 26, 26, 27, 27, 28, 29, 29, 30, 30, 

30, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 37, 

38, 41, 41, 42, 42, 50, 50, 51, 51, 54, 55, 55, 

56, 56, 57, 58, 58, 59, 59, 60, 60, 61, 61, 62, 

62, 63, 66, 66, 67, 71, 71, 72, 74, 74, 75, 76, 

77, 78, 79, 79, 80, 80, 81, 81, 81, 82, 83, 83, 

83, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 88, 88, 89, 91, 91, 

93, 93, 93, 95, 95, 96, 97, 97, 97, 98, 98, 98, 

99, 100, 101, 102, 102, 103, 103, 104, 104, 

105, 107, 107, 108, 108, 109, 109, 109, 112, 

113, 113, 114, 115, 116, 116, 117, 117, 118, 

118, 119, 119, 120, 121, 121, 122, 123, 124, 

125, 125, 125, 126, 127, 127, 130, 131, 131, 

132, 133, 133, 133, 134, 134, 135, 136, 136, 

137, 138, 139, 140, 142, 143, 143, 144, 145, 

146, 146, 147, 147, 147, 149, 150, 150, 151, 

152, 153, 153, 155, 155, 156, 157, 158, 158, 

159, 159, 160, 161, 162, 163, 163, 164, 164, 

165, 165, 166, 168, 169, 170, 170, 171, 171, 

172, 172, 173, 174, 175, 175, 175, 177, 177, 

178, 178, 179, 180, 180, 181, 181, 183, 183, 

184, 185, 185, 186, 186, 186, 187, 187, 190, 

191, 192, 193, 193, 194, 194, 197, 197, 198, 

199, 199, 200, 200, 201, 204, 205, 206, 206, 

207, 207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 210, 211, 211, 

212, 214, 217, 217, 218, 219, 220, 220, 224, 

225, 226, 227, 227, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229, 

229, 230 

organohalogens (1) 205 

organolead (1) 38 

organometallics (23) 24, 38, 67, 68, 69, 72, 

81, 90, 105, 118, 119, 123, 128, 129, 133, 

141, 151, 169, 182, 203, 204, 213, 213 

organophosphates (1) 169 

organotins (3) 24, 123, 182 

osmoregulation (1) 149 

osprey (6) 32, 52, 112, 123, 166, 169 

ovary (2) 140, 210 

oxychlordane (1) 191 

Oxyura jamaicensis (4) 38, 65, 223, 226 

oystercatcher (8) 23, 23, 32, 72, 103, 114, 

140, 151 

P (5) 76, 77, 99, 198, 226 

PA (1) 226 

Pachyptila crassirostris (1) 141 

Pachyptila desolata (1) 141 

Pachyptila turtur (2) 32, 141 

Pachyptila vittata (2) 32, 212 

Pacific loon (1) 223 

Pacific Ocean (21) 28, 32, 92, 112, 123, 

125, 125, 125, 128, 128, 129, 133, 162, 177, 

178, 185, 186, 200, 206, 206, 208 

Pagodroma (1) 212 

Pagodroma nivea (1) 32 

Pagophila eburnea (7) 42, 72, 73, 75, 82, 

150, 156 

PAHs (10) 41, 89, 102, 133, 137, 167, 184, 

190, 191, 193 

pancreas (3) 128, 164, 226 

Pandion haliaetus (6) 32, 52, 112, 123, 166, 

169 

parakeet auklet (2) 112, 223 

parasites (4) 53, 182, 183, 213 

parasitic jaeger (9) 32, 34, 129, 130, 141, 

195, 200, 203, 223 

Passer montanus (1) 195 

Pb (52) 19, 24, 32, 38, 43, 44, 44, 44, 45, 

45, 46, 46, 47, 48, 48, 49, 49, 52, 73, 74, 76, 

77, 85, 87, 88, 89, 91, 94, 94, 101, 103, 110, 

111, 113, 114, 116, 124, 128, 133, 133, 136, 

140, 141, 153, 157, 176, 186, 198, 201, 212, 

225, 226 

PBBs (1) 115 

PBDEs (10) 102, 104, 109, 115, 127, 160, 

188, 189, 189, 211 

PCBs (226) 18, 19, 22, 22, 23, 24, 25, 25, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

260 

26, 26, 27, 27, 28, 29, 30, 30, 30, 31, 31, 32, 

32, 34, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 37, 38, 42, 42, 50, 

50, 51, 51, 54, 55, 56, 56, 57, 59, 59, 60, 61, 

61, 62, 62, 66, 67, 71, 71, 72, 74, 74, 75, 77, 

79, 79, 80, 81, 81, 81, 83, 83, 83, 84, 84, 85, 

85, 86, 86, 88, 89, 91, 91, 93, 93, 95, 95, 96, 

97, 97, 98, 98, 100, 100, 102, 102, 103, 103, 

105, 107, 107, 108, 108, 109, 109, 109, 112, 

113, 113, 114, 116, 116, 117, 118, 118, 119, 

119, 120, 121, 123, 124, 125, 125, 126, 127, 

127, 130, 131, 132, 133, 133, 133, 134, 135, 

136, 136, 138, 139, 140, 142, 143, 143, 144, 

145, 146, 147, 147, 150, 152, 153, 155, 155, 

156, 157, 158, 158, 159, 161, 162, 163, 163, 

164, 164, 165, 165, 168, 169, 170, 170, 171, 

171, 172, 172, 173, 175, 175, 177, 178, 179, 

180, 180, 181, 182, 183, 183, 184, 185, 185, 

186, 186, 186, 187, 187, 190, 191, 192, 192, 

193, 194, 194, 197, 197, 198, 199, 199, 200, 

200, 204, 205, 207, 208, 208, 209, 210, 210, 

211, 211, 214, 217, 217, 218, 219, 220, 224, 

225, 226, 227, 227, 227, 228, 228, 229, 229, 

230 

PCDDs (64) 26, 27, 32, 37, 37, 38, 41, 55, 

56, 57, 61, 63, 66, 75, 76, 80, 84, 85, 86, 89, 

91, 93, 95, 100, 101, 102, 104, 109, 117, 

118, 119, 121, 123, 127, 130, 132, 135, 136, 

142, 143, 143, 144, 146, 159, 159, 161, 169, 

170, 172, 173, 180, 184, 190, 191, 193, 194, 

204, 205, 217, 218, 220, 224, 227, 227 

PCDEs (1) 130 

PCDFs (43) 26, 27, 32, 37, 37, 38, 41, 55, 

56, 57, 66, 76, 80, 85, 86, 89, 100, 101, 104, 

109, 117, 118, 123, 130, 135, 137, 142, 144, 

146, 159, 161, 172, 173, 180, 184, 191, 193, 

194, 204, 218, 220, 227, 227 

PCNs (3) 78, 120, 121 

Pedioecetes phasianellus see Tympanuchus 

phasianellus

pekin duck see mallard 

pelagic cormorant (12) 32, 64, 65, 73, 74, 

100, 154, 162, 177, 178, 194, 223 

Pelecanoides georgicus (1) 141 

Pelecanoides urinatrix (2) 32, 141 

Pelecanus erythrorhynchos (7) 19, 32, 96, 

97, 123, 125, 210 

Pelecanus occidentalis (6) 32, 123, 125, 

169, 177, 212 

Pelecanus onocrotalus (2) 83, 139 

penguins (1) 212 

Perdix perdix (2) 38, 169 

peregrine falcon (5) 32, 74, 169, 177, 223 

perfluorinated acids (2) 122, 145 

petrels (1) 212 

PFOS (4) 92, 122, 123, 145 

Phaethon lepturus (2) 32, 141 

Phaethon rubricauda (1) 141 

Phalacrocorax (1) 212 

Phalacrocorax aristotelis (25) 18, 20, 22, 

22, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 60, 60, 145, 151, 153, 

155, 175, 178, 191, 200, 203, 203, 212, 221, 

222, 225 

Phalacrocorax atriceps (1) 32 

Phalacrocorax auritus (76) 19, 27, 32, 36, 

39, 48, 52, 53, 61, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 74, 

75, 76, 76, 84, 86, 92, 96, 97, 97, 97, 99, 

100, 104, 105, 105, 109, 110, 115, 119, 123, 

123, 125, 133, 134, 136, 143, 143, 146, 147, 

152, 152, 159, 162, 166, 170, 171, 172, 173, 

180, 181, 184, 190, 193, 194, 194, 204, 205, 

210, 210, 218, 220, 223, 224, 227, 227, 228, 

228, 228, 229, 229 

Phalacrocorax bougainvillii (2) 113, 227 

Phalacrocorax capillatus (1) 112 

Phalacrocorax carbo (21) 31, 31, 32, 32, 

34, 59, 70, 72, 83, 122, 123, 139, 140, 141, 

151, 156, 163, 178, 191, 200, 225 

Phalacrocorax colensoi (1) 32 

Phalacrocorax filamentosus (1) 73 

Phalacrocorax melanoleucos (1) 141 

Phalacrocorax nigrogularis (1) 32 

Phalacrocorax olivaceus (1) 152 

Phalacrocorax pelagicus (12) 32, 64, 65, 

73, 74, 100, 154, 162, 177, 178, 194, 223 

Phalacrocorax penicillatus (8) 32, 113, 

116, 117, 123, 177, 198, 227 

Phalacrocorax pygmeus (2) 83, 139 

Phalacrocorax urile (5) 64, 65, 162, 178, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

261 

223 

Phalaropus fulicarius (3) 32, 125, 177 

Phalaropus lobatus (6) 36, 39, 64, 65, 125, 

223 

pharmacokinetics (1) 58 

Phasianus colchicus (2) 38, 169 

pheasant (2) 38, 169 

phenols (2) 38, 137 

Philomachus pugnax (1) 29 

Phoebetria fusca (2) 32, 204 

Phoebetria palpebrata (3) 128, 129, 141 

Phoenicurus auroreus (1) 195 

Phoenicurus phoenicurus (1) 169 

phosmethylan (1) 169 

phthalates (1) 228 

Pica pica (3) 64, 65, 223 

pigeon guillemot (12) 38, 53, 64, 65, 116, 

117, 154, 162, 194, 198, 221, 223 

pigeon hawk (2) 125, 169 

pink-footed shearwater (1) 125 

pintail (9) 38, 129, 130, 136, 137, 195, 210, 

223, 226 

plastic (2) 28, 32 

Platalea leucorodia (1) 32 

Plautus alle see Alle alle

Plegadis chihi (1) 123 

Pluvialis apricaria (1) 229 

Pluvialis squatarola (1) 125 

pochard (2) 137, 195 

Podiceps auritus (9) 32, 64, 65, 79, 80, 137, 

195, 210, 223 

Podiceps caspicus (2) 48, 210 

Podiceps cristatus (5) 32, 70, 79, 87, 123 

Podiceps grisegena (7) 64, 65, 70, 79, 80, 

154, 223 

Podiceps nigricollis (5) 56, 57, 83, 122, 139 

Poland (6) 32, 79, 80, 80, 123, 186 

polyisobutylene (1) 55 

Polysticta stelleri (3) 29, 106, 197 

pomarine jaeger (7) 64, 65, 72, 72, 156, 

200, 223 

porphyrin (15) 55, 84, 85, 86, 86, 91, 95, 

107, 126, 127, 135, 166, 169, 190, 191 

prairie falcon (1) 125 

Procellaria aequinoctialis (4) 128, 128, 

129, 141 

Procellaria cinerea (4) 32, 128, 129, 141 

Procellaria westlandica (1) 141 

Pterodroma (1) 212 

Pterodroma axillaris (1) 141 

Pterodroma brevirostris (3) 32, 90, 141 

Pterodroma cahow (2) 32, 125 

Pterodroma cookii (1) 141 

Pterodroma incerta (3) 32, 90, 204 

Pterodroma inexpectata (2) 32, 141 

Pterodroma lessonii (1) 141 

Pterodroma longirostris (1) 28 

Pterodroma macroptera (1) 141 

Pterodroma mollis (2) 90, 204 

Pterodroma nigripennis (1) 141 

Pterodroma pycrofti (1) 141 

Ptychoramphus aleuticus (6) 38, 77, 77, 

112, 125, 177 

Puffinus (1) 212 

Puffinus assimilis (1) 141 

Puffinus carneipes (1) 141 

Puffinus creatopus (1) 125 

Puffinus gravis (4) 32, 34, 90, 125 

Puffinus griseus (8) 28, 32, 65, 112, 125, 

177, 200, 220 

Puffinus huttoni (1) 141 

Puffinus lherminieri (1) 32 

Puffinus pacificus (3) 169, 175, 190 

Puffinus puffinus (8) 32, 34, 43, 90, 164, 

164, 200, 203 

Puffinus tenuirostris (6) 32, 112, 125, 141, 

177, 200 

pulp mill (4) 55, 76, 159, 191 

purple sandpiper (4) 32, 34, 59, 229 

Pycroft's petrel (1) 141 

pygmy cormorant (2) 83, 139 

Pygoscelis adeliae (1) 32 

Pygoscelis antarctica (1) 32 

Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax (1) 191 

Quebec (12) 26, 38, 55, 56, 76, 76, 133, 

136, 145, 171, 180, 226 

Quelea quelea (1) 169 

Quiscalus mexicanus (2) 152, 152 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

262 

Quiscalus quiscalus (1) 169 

radionuclides (3) 111, 133, 161 

razorbill (26) 22, 22, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 38, 

43, 79, 80, 80, 81, 81, 123, 140, 145, 151, 

171, 178, 184, 185, 186, 200, 203, 203 

Rb (2) 52, 128 

Recurvirostra americana (2) 125, 210 

Recurvirostra avosetta (3) 72, 83, 139 

red-billed gull (3) 141, 151, 169 

red-billed quelea (1) 169 

red-breasted merganser (14) 32, 38, 63, 64, 

65, 72, 79, 87, 136, 140, 156, 163, 223, 226 

red-faced cormorant (5) 64, 65, 162, 178, 

223 

red-legged kittiwake (1) 200 

red-necked grebe (7) 64, 65, 70, 79, 80, 

154, 223 

red-necked phalarope (6) 36, 39, 64, 65, 

125, 223 

red phalarope (3) 32, 125, 177 

red-tailed hawk (1) 125 

red-tailed tropicbird (1) 141 

red-throated loon (10) 32, 79, 80, 103, 123, 

123, 129, 130, 200, 223 

red-winged blackbird (4) 146, 152, 152, 169 

redhead duck (2) 38, 226 

redshank (2) 72, 140 

redstart (1) 169 

reproductive success (55) 19, 23, 32, 42, 50, 

50, 52, 53, 55, 61, 76, 84, 93, 93, 94, 100, 

104, 105, 109, 131, 132, 134, 136, 143, 147, 

148, 151, 154, 159, 166, 168, 169, 170, 171, 

175, 175, 177, 190, 191, 193, 196, 199, 200, 

201, 204, 205, 207, 210, 210, 217, 219, 220, 

221, 221, 222 

retinol (14) 55, 84, 107, 107, 135, 155, 161, 

169, 190, 191, 192, 192, 193, 215 

review (31) 32, 32, 38, 40, 56, 76, 89, 91, 

91, 93, 93, 104, 133, 143, 151, 153, 161, 

166, 168, 169, 175, 185, 186, 189, 190, 200, 

212, 220, 221, 222, 226 

rhinoceros auklet (16) 28, 38, 65, 74, 75, 

77, 77, 112, 116, 117, 125, 177, 198, 206, 

206, 223 

ring-billed gull (9) 27, 104, 123, 169, 172, 

173, 181, 190, 218 

ring dove (2) 169, 175 

ring-necked duck (4) 38, 65, 223, 226 

ringed plover (2) 23, 72 

Rissa (1) 212 

Rissa brevirostris (1) 200 

Rissa tridactyla (68) 19, 20, 22, 22, 28, 29, 

30, 32, 34, 34, 35, 36, 36, 37, 39, 42, 64, 65, 

71, 72, 72, 73, 81, 81, 81, 82, 90, 90, 101, 

103, 109, 111, 112, 113, 140, 145, 150, 151, 

153, 154, 155, 156, 162, 177, 178, 184, 185, 

185, 186, 186, 188, 195, 195, 200, 200, 201, 

203, 203, 205, 209, 216, 216, 220, 221, 221, 

222, 223, 229 

rock dove see common pigeon 

rock ptarmigan (3) 34, 59, 229 

rock sandpiper (2) 178, 223 

rockhopper penguin (2) 32, 141 

roseate tern (5) 45, 49, 151, 178, 200 

Ross' goose (1) 226 

royal albatross (4) 128, 128, 129, 141 

ruddy duck (4) 38, 65, 223, 226 

ruff (1) 29 

ruffed grouse (1) 38 

Russia (12) 22, 29, 128, 129, 130, 134, 137, 

147, 185, 186, 195, 197 

Rynchops niger (2) 44, 49 

S (2) 52, 226 

Sabine's gull (2) 129, 130 

Salvin's albatross (1) 141 

sanderling (3) 56, 57, 122 

sandhill crane (1) 223 

sandwich tern (7) 23, 32, 72, 151, 178, 196, 

200 

Saskatchewan (6) 19, 38, 133, 133, 193, 

226 

Sb (1) 105 

SC (3) 52, 212, 226 

Scolopax minor (2) 38, 125 

scoters (1) 221 

Scotland (18) 28, 32, 32, 34, 43, 79, 90, 

119, 140, 164, 164, 186, 196, 203, 203, 203, 

204, 212 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

263 

SD (5) 61, 96, 97, 99, 110 

Se (51) 34, 35, 38, 44, 44, 44, 45, 45, 48, 

52, 72, 73, 74, 76, 77, 85, 88, 94, 94, 105, 

106, 111, 114, 116, 128, 129, 133, 135, 136, 

140, 152, 153, 156, 157, 176, 178, 184, 185, 

186, 197, 198, 213, 213, 214, 214, 215, 215, 

216, 216, 225, 226 

Sea of Japan (1) 112 

seasonal variations (20) 32, 36, 51, 67, 70, 

79, 109, 119, 134, 139, 152, 152, 169, 196, 

201, 210, 212, 214, 225, 230 

semipalmated plover (1) 125 

shag (25) 18, 20, 22, 22, 31, 31, 32, 32, 34, 

60, 60, 145, 151, 153, 155, 175, 178, 191, 

200, 203, 203, 212, 221, 222, 225 

sharp-shinned hawk (3) 65, 125, 223 

sharp-tailed grouse (2) 38, 169 

shearwaters (1) 212 

shelduck (5) 23, 32, 72, 103, 151 

Shetland (4) 32, 90, 195, 202 

short-billed dowitcher (1) 125 

short-eared owl (1) 125 

short-tailed shearwater (6) 32, 112, 125, 

141, 177, 200 

shoveler (5) 38, 137, 195, 223, 226 

shy albatross see white-capped albatross 

silver gull see red-billed gull 

skin (4) 115, 128, 164, 226 

skua see long-tailed jaeger or pomarine 

jaeger 

skuas (1) 212 

Slavonian grebe see horned grebe 

slender-billed gull (2) 83, 139 

slender-billed shearwater see short-tailed 

shearwater 

Sn (2) 32, 85 

snow goose (2) 38, 226 

snow petrel (1) 32 

snowy egret (2) 105, 123 

socotra cormorant (1) 32 

soft-plumaged petrel (2) 90, 204 

Somateria fischeri (6) 29, 89, 94, 106, 197, 

225 

Somateria mollissima (62) 20, 22, 32, 34, 

36, 38, 39, 41, 41, 54, 59, 63, 72, 72, 72, 73, 

78, 80, 81, 83, 87, 87, 88, 89, 94, 103, 110, 

111, 111, 113, 119, 122, 124, 135, 136, 140, 

147, 153, 156, 157, 157, 157, 171, 174, 178, 

180, 184, 185, 186, 186, 188, 196, 197, 199, 

201, 212, 213, 213, 214, 215, 226, 230 

Somateria spectabilis (16) 34, 59, 72, 72, 

73, 129, 130, 153, 156, 184, 185, 186, 197, 

213, 225, 226 

sooty albatross (2) 32, 204 

sooty shearwater (8) 28, 32, 65, 112, 125, 

177, 200, 220 

sooty tern (2) 32, 141 

South America (1) 83 

South Georgian diving petrel (1) 141 

southern black-backed gull (1) 141 

southern giant petrel (2) 32, 141 

sparrowhawk (1) 169 

spatial variations (117) 20, 22, 22, 23, 26, 

27, 27, 32, 34, 34, 43, 44, 49, 52, 53, 54, 58, 

59, 61, 63, 66, 69, 71, 74, 76, 77, 77, 79, 80, 

81, 81, 81, 83, 83, 84, 85, 86, 86, 90, 92, 93, 

94, 98, 101, 102, 103, 105, 111, 112, 114, 

115, 117, 118, 119, 121, 122, 123, 133, 135, 

136, 140, 145, 145, 146, 147, 151, 152, 153, 

156, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 162, 164, 165, 

169, 170, 170, 171, 171, 172, 172, 173, 176, 

176, 178, 181, 184, 185, 186, 186, 189, 193, 

194, 194, 198, 199, 202, 203, 204, 206, 206, 

208, 209, 210, 210, 211, 211, 212, 214, 215, 

217, 218, 225, 226 

spectacled eider (6) 29, 89, 94, 106, 197, 

225 

Speotyto cunicularia see Athene cunicularia

Spheniscus demersus (1) 32 

Spheniscus magellanicus (1) 32 

spleen (2) 128, 186 

spoonbill (1) 32 

spot-billed duck (1) 122 

spotted sandpiper (4) 64, 65, 125, 223 

spotted shag (2) 32, 141 

spruce grouse (1) 38 

Squatarola squatarola see Pluvialis 

squatarola
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

264 

Sr (6) 38, 52, 128, 197, 198, 226 

stable isotopes (18) 20, 30, 34, 35, 41, 42, 

82, 102, 107, 113, 116, 117, 178, 180, 183, 

202, 205, 214 

starling (2) 125, 169 

Stejneger's petrel (1) 28 

Steller's eider (3) 29, 106, 197 

Steller's jay (3) 64, 65, 223 

Stercorarius longicaudus (4) 129, 130, 141, 

223 

Stercorarius parasiticus (9) 32, 34, 129, 

130, 141, 195, 200, 203, 223 

Stercorarius pomarinus (7) 64, 65, 72, 72, 

156, 200, 223 

Sterna (1) 212 

Sterna albifrons (7) 32, 56, 57, 83, 139, 

151, 200 

Sterna aleutica (1) 162 

Sterna caspia (13) 27, 95, 104, 143, 143, 

146, 169, 173, 190, 204, 214, 218, 227 

Sterna dougallii (5) 45, 49, 151, 178, 200 

Sterna elegans (1) 125 

Sterna forsteri (11) 27, 44, 49, 104, 118, 

132, 166, 169, 173, 190, 194 

Sterna fuscata (2) 32, 141 

Sterna hirundo (39) 20, 22, 23, 23, 23, 27, 

32, 36, 39, 44, 49, 56, 57, 72, 83, 88, 90, 

104, 122, 125, 137, 139, 146, 147, 151, 151, 

166, 169, 171, 173, 178, 187, 190, 195, 200, 

202, 210, 210, 218 

Sterna nilotica (3) 83, 139, 200 

Sterna paradisaea (22) 20, 34, 36, 39, 41, 

64, 65, 128, 129, 130, 136, 138, 139, 141, 

162, 184, 185, 187, 195, 200, 221, 223 

Sterna sandvicensis (7) 23, 32, 72, 151, 

178, 196, 200 

Sterna striata (1) 141 

Sterna vittata (1) 32 

Stictocarbo punctatus punctatus (1) 141 

Stictocarbo punctatus steadi (2) 32, 141 

stomach (1) 128 

stomach contents (2) 30, 105 

stomach oil (2) 28, 34 

storm-petrel (5) 28, 32, 34, 43, 200 

storm petrels (1) 212 

Streptopelia risoria (2) 169, 175 

Sturnus vulgaris (2) 125, 169 

Sula bassana (14) 32, 34, 60, 81, 81, 123, 

125, 145, 153, 178, 186, 200, 203, 212 

Sula capensis (1) 32 

Sula dactylatra (1) 32 

Sula leucogaster (5) 32, 125, 128, 129, 141 

Sula serrator see Morus serrator

surf scoter (8) 38, 64, 65, 106, 133, 220, 

223, 226 

surfbird (1) 223 

Svalbard (21) 22, 24, 30, 42, 50, 50, 55, 62, 

91, 107, 108, 108, 109, 111, 121, 133, 147, 

157, 157, 182, 192 

Swainson’s hawk (1) 125 

Sweden (20) 25, 26, 32, 41, 78, 87, 87, 111, 

116, 117, 120, 121, 127, 133, 161, 163, 186, 

189, 189, 220 

Swinhoe's storm petrel (1) 112 

Switzerland (1) 79 

Synthliboramphus antiquus (10) 38, 65, 74, 

77, 77, 112, 125, 162, 177, 223 

Synthliboramphus craveri (1) 125 

Synthliboramphus hypoleucus (1) 28 

Tachybaptus ruficollis (1) 70 

Tachycineta bicolor (1) 146 

Tadorna tadorna (5) 23, 32, 72, 103, 151 

Taeniopygia guttata (1) 169 

TCDDs (1) 133 

Temminck's cormorant (1) 73 

temporal trends (90) 20, 22, 25, 25, 26, 26, 

27, 35, 36, 37, 42, 44, 46, 51, 60, 61, 73, 74, 

75, 75, 77, 79, 80, 83, 84, 84, 85, 85, 90, 91, 

91, 97, 98, 100, 101, 102, 102, 103, 104, 

118, 121, 127, 131, 134, 144, 145, 150, 151, 

153, 155, 156, 159, 160, 161, 163, 164, 165, 

166, 170, 170, 171, 171, 172, 172, 173, 176, 

181, 182, 186, 186, 188, 189, 189, 194, 197, 

198, 199, 202, 203, 207, 208, 209, 212, 214, 

217, 218, 220, 226, 228, 228 

TEQs (35) 37, 42, 56, 57, 61, 66, 80, 85, 95, 

95, 97, 100, 100, 108, 109, 119, 123, 130, 

134, 135, 136, 142, 143, 143, 145, 155, 159, 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

265 

161, 180, 184, 193, 204, 205, 224, 227 

terns (1) 212 

Th (1) 198 

Thalasseus elegans see Sterna elegans

Thalassoica antarctica (1) 141 

Thayer’s gull see Iceland gull 

thick-billed murre (52) 20, 20, 22, 29, 30, 

32, 34, 34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 42, 58, 59, 72, 

72, 73, 74, 75, 82, 91, 91, 111, 112, 113, 

115, 125, 125, 133, 133, 147, 150, 153, 155, 

156, 157, 157, 162, 174, 184, 185, 186, 203, 

208, 208, 209, 216, 221, 221, 222 

thyroid hormones (4) 55, 166, 169, 211 

Ti (4) 19, 52, 198, 226 

Tl (1) 85 

Tokyo Bay (1) 30 

Totanus flavipes see Tringa flavipes

toxaphene (18) 19, 38, 56, 61, 79, 89, 109, 

116, 121, 133, 153, 162, 197, 199, 211, 220, 

226, 229 

toxicology (111) 23, 32, 37, 42, 52, 53, 55, 

55, 56, 57, 61, 61, 62, 63, 66, 67, 68, 68, 69, 

76, 78, 80, 84, 84, 85, 85, 86, 86, 88, 91, 91, 

93, 94, 95, 95, 97, 97, 99, 100, 100, 102, 

105, 107, 107, 108, 109, 111, 114, 123, 124, 

124, 126, 127, 127, 130, 132, 133, 134, 135, 

136, 137, 138, 138, 141, 142, 143, 143, 145, 

148, 148, 149, 151, 153, 155, 157, 161, 166, 

166, 166, 167, 167, 167, 168, 168, 168, 169, 

170, 175, 177, 179, 184, 187, 190, 191, 192, 

192, 193, 195, 196, 196, 200, 204, 205, 207, 

212, 213, 215, 216, 224, 225, 227 

trachea (1) 128 

tree sparrow (1) 195 

tree swallow (1) 146 

Tringa flavipes (2) 125, 223 

Tringa melanoleuca (1) 223 

Tringa nebularia (3) 56, 57, 122 

Tringa stagnatilis (1) 137 

Tringa totanus (2) 72, 140 

Tristan skua (1) 204 

Tristan thrush (1) 32 

tubenoses (1) 212 

tufted duck (4) 81, 137, 195, 229 

tufted puffin (9) 28, 38, 64, 65, 112, 162, 

220, 221, 223 

turkey (1) 169 

turkey vulture (2) 32, 52 

TX (1) 226 

Tympanuchus phasianellus (2) 38, 169 

ultraviolet radiation (2) 19, 133 

upland sandpiper see Bartram's sandpiper 

Uria aalge (99) 19, 19, 20, 21, 22, 22, 25, 

26, 28, 28, 31, 31, 32, 32, 32, 32, 34, 38, 55, 

58, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 67, 68, 68, 69, 70, 71, 

79, 80, 80, 81, 81, 81, 90, 91, 103, 104, 112, 

115, 116, 116, 117, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 

123, 125, 127, 127, 133, 140, 145, 151, 151, 

156, 161, 162, 163, 163, 165, 167, 169, 171, 

174, 175, 177, 178, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 

188, 189, 189, 195, 196, 198, 200, 201, 203, 

203, 204, 208, 208, 209, 215, 216, 220, 220, 

221, 222, 223 

Uria grylle see Cepphus grylle

Uria lomvia (52) 20, 20, 22, 29, 30, 32, 34, 

34, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 42, 58, 59, 72, 72, 73, 

74, 75, 82, 91, 91, 111, 112, 113, 115, 125, 

125, 133, 133, 147, 150, 153, 155, 156, 157, 

157, 162, 174, 184, 185, 186, 203, 208, 208, 

209, 216, 221, 221, 222 

USA (82) 19, 21, 28, 32, 43, 44, 44, 44, 45, 

45, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 49, 49, 52, 53, 53, 

58, 61, 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 89, 94, 94, 96, 97, 

99, 105, 105, 106, 110, 116, 117, 123, 123, 

125, 131, 132, 133, 133, 134, 136, 145, 147, 

149, 154, 162, 165, 174, 177, 177, 178, 185, 

186, 187, 190, 194, 194, 197, 197, 198, 199, 

208, 208, 209, 212, 220, 221, 221, 222, 223, 

224, 225, 226, 227 

UT (1) 226 

V (5) 38, 85, 128, 198, 226 

VA (3) 44, 185, 199 

Vanellus vanellus (1) 137 

velvet scoter see white-winged scoter 

viscera (1) 41 

vitamin A (13) 55, 85, 91, 95, 97, 99, 155, 

161, 169, 192, 192, 193, 215 

VT (1) 226 
Keyword Index (Cont.). Numbers in parentheses are the sums of references containing the 

keyword. 

266 

WA (5) 28, 53, 105, 190, 194 

Wadden Sea (7) 22, 23, 72, 121, 140, 164, 

187 

wandering albatross (3) 32, 141, 204 

wandering tattler (3) 64, 65, 223 

wedge-tailed shearwater (3) 169, 175, 190 

western grebe (5) 32, 52, 125, 210, 220 

western gull (4) 125, 169, 177, 190 

western sandpiper (1) 223 

westland petrel (1) 141 

whimbrel (1) 223 

white-billed diver see yellow-billed loon 

white-capped albatross (3) 128, 129, 141 

white-capped noddy (1) 141 

white-chinned petrel (4) 128, 128, 129, 141 

white-faced ibis (1) 123 

white-flippered penguin (1) 32 

white-fronted goose (2) 169, 226 

white-fronted tern (1) 141 

white-headed petrel (1) 141 

white Pekin ducks (1) 149 

white pelican (7) 19, 32, 96, 97, 123, 125, 

210 

white-tailed sea eagle (9) 32, 80, 112, 115, 

117, 120, 123, 130, 163 

white-tailed tropicbird (2) 32, 141 

white-throated sparrow (1) 169 

white-winged dove (1) 152 

white-winged scoter (10) 32, 38, 64, 65, 80, 

81, 106, 133, 223, 226 

whooper swan (1) 87 

WI (11) 19, 61, 61, 62, 132, 133, 136, 147, 

194, 224, 226 

willet (1) 125 

willow ptarmigan (3) 38, 41, 136 

Wilson's petrel (2) 32, 125 

wood duck (2) 38, 226 

woodstork (1) 123 

Xantus' murrelet (1) 28 

yellow-billed loon (3) 32, 65, 223 

yellow-eyed penguin (1) 141 

yellow-legged gull (1) 20 

yellow-nosed albatross (3) 128, 129, 204 

yolk (1) 193 

Yukon (4) 56, 133, 145, 226 

zebra finch (1) 169 

Zenaida asiatica (1) 152 

Zenaida macroura (3) 38, 152, 152 

Zn (47) 19, 32, 32, 32, 38, 52, 67, 67, 68, 

68, 69, 76, 77, 85, 101, 105, 106, 110, 111, 

112, 114, 118, 128, 129, 130, 135, 135, 141, 

152, 156, 157, 164, 178, 184, 185, 185, 186, 

196, 197, 198, 198, 212, 213, 215, 216, 216, 

226 

Zonotrichia albicollis (1) 169 

Zr (1) 198