Consequences of Plastic Trash on Behavior and Ecology of Birds

Abstract

AbstractAnthropogenic activities, particularly urbanization, have fragmented natural habitats. Generation of waste is perhaps one biggest consequence of human activities. Production, use, and disposal of plastic-based products have led to the generation of humongous quantities of waste which has its repercussions not only for the man himself but also for the other living organisms. Because of the incessant urban sprawl, various organisms are forced to adapt themselves to the man-made urban habitats, known as urban species. Birds are one such group of highly urbanized species, which by the virtue of their ability to fly, can quickly move from one place to another in search of food and nesting sites. Indiscriminate use of plastic and resulting production of plastic waste have replaced naturally available food and nesting material. This alteration in the natural environment has led to a significant impact on the ecology, and thus foraging and nesting behavior of birds. There have been several stances whereby birds have ingested plastic pieces mistaking it for food. Gut analyses of marine and terrestrial birds have revealed the prevalence of meso- as well as microplastics from direct and indirect ingestion. Likewise, in the absence of natural vegetation-based material, and because of the abundance of anthropogenic material, birds have been found to incorporate items like polyethylene bags, plastic sheets, plastic wires, yarn, etc. in their nests as a structural, defensive, or insulation component. Ingestion of plastic in birds has been linked with stomach obstruction and perforations. Likewise, plastic incorporation in nests has been associated with entanglement and even death of the nestlings by strangulation. These consequences of plastic trash on behavior and ecology of birds clearly highlights mankind’s lacking diligence toward environment and the repercussions of his actions on the components of the ecosystem.KeywordsPlastic trashImpactBehaviorEcologyAnimals