Trace elements in feathers of Cape Petrel (Daption capense) from Antarctica

Abstract

The Cape petrel (Daption capense) has circumpolar distribution and potential to be used as sentinels of trace elements levels in the Antarctic environment. This study measured trace elements in carcass feathers (n = 30) of this yet under-studied Procellariiform species, in King George Island, Antarctica. This non-invasive sampling method was useful for quantifying mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), selenium (Se), and to perform the sex identification of birds. There were no significant differences between males and females for Hg (mean ± SD, 973 ± 930 ng g−1; 977 ± 570 ng g−1) and Se (3919 ± 637 ng g−1; 3782 ± 799 ng g−1), levels but males had significantly lower Cd levels than females (101 ± 76 ng g−1; 293 ± 251 ng g−1), respectively. Hg concentration in D. capense is lower than other Procellariiformes which indicate interspecific variations that may be related to their proximity to pollution sources. The reason for males having significantly lower Cd levels than females is unknown. This opportunistic and non-invasive sampling strategy can be useful in the environmental monitoring of the trace elements in polar environments.