Use of Wildlife for On-Site Evaluation of Bioavailability and Ecotoxicity of Toxic Substances Found in Hazardous Waste Sites

Abstract

Many scientists believe that human beings represent the ultimate sentinel species of a toxic exposure to hazardous waste site contaminants. However, few research methods have been developed that support a causal relationship between exposure to hazardous waste site chemicals in situ and latent or delayed adverse health effects in humans (Grisham, 1986). Wildlife toxicology, being the investigation of the effects of environmental contaminants on the reproduction, health and well being of animals living in a wild, undomesticated state, represents an area of research which holds great promise in evaluating hazardous waste site issues (Kendall, 1982, 1988). The study of wildlife inhabiting or using hazardous waste sites could reduce the uncertainty inherent in risk assessments of contaminated areas. Monitoring wildlife in situ could provide an early warning system to potential human health effects, as well as reflect problems in the natural environment.