Dermal insecticide residues from birds inhabiting an orchard
Links
- More information: Publisher Index Page (via DOI)
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
The US Environmental Protection Agency conducts risk assessments of insecticide applications to wild birds using a model that is limited to the dietary route of exposure. However, free-flying birds are also exposed to insecticides via the inhalation and dermal routes. We measured azinphos-methyl residues on the skin plus feathers and the feet of brown-headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater) in order to quantify dermal exposure to songbirds that entered and inhabited an apple (Malus x domestica) orchard following an insecticide application. Exposure to azinphos-methyl was measured by sampling birds from an aviary that was built around an apple tree. Birds sampled at 36 h and 7-day post-application were placed in the aviary within 1 h after the application whereas birds exposed for 3 days were released into the aviary 4-day post-application. Residues on vegetation and soil were also measured. Azinphos-methyl residues were detected from the skin plus feathers and the feet from all exposure periods. Our results underscore the importance of incorporating dermal exposure into avian pesticide risk assessments.
| Publication type | Article |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
| Title | Dermal insecticide residues from birds inhabiting an orchard |
| Series title | Environmental Monitoring and Assessment |
| DOI | 10.1007/s10661-006-9573-2 |
| Volume | 133 |
| Issue | 1-3 |
| Publication Date | December 14, 2006 |
| Year Published | 2007 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | Springer |
| Contributing office(s) | Patuxent Wildlife Research Center |
| Description | 6 p. |
| First page | 209 |
| Last page | 214 |