A comparison of metal contaminants in avian populations by NAA analysis using lethal and non-lethal sampling

Traditional determinations of elemental contaminants in avian populations have involved the sacrifice of individual members of a population to provide tissue samples. Such an approach is increasingly prohibited by environmental legislation and social norms. The present work has used neutron activation to examine correlations between matrices obtained by nonlethal methods, such as talons and feathers, with tissue samples for the same individuals. This work has focused on Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), a species resident in the Great Lakes region of North America during the summer months. The protected status of such Osprey and the difficulties in following the environment exposure of this migratory species make them a notable subject of study. (author)