Assessment of Toxic Metals (Al, Cd, Pb) and Trace Elements (B, Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Li, Zn, Ni, Sr, V) in the Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) from the Canary Islands (Spain)

Abstract

Abstract The monitoring of trace elements and toxic metals in apical predators of the trophic chain provides data on the degree of contamination in ecosystems. The common kestrel is one of the most interesting raptors in this respect in the Canary Islands; therefore, the study of the levels of trace elements and toxic metals in this species is of much scientific value. The content of trace elements and toxic metals (B, Ba, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Li, Zn, Ni, Sr, V, Al, Cd, Pb) was determined in the liver, muscle, and feathers of 200 specimens of common kestrel carcasses (Falco tinnunculus canariensis) from Tenerife. Cr (0.82 ± 2.62 mg/kg), Cu (11.82 ± 7.77 mg/kg), and Zn (198.47 ± 520.80 mg/kg) are the trace elements that stand out in the feather samples; this may be due to their affinity for the pigments that give them their coloring. Li was noteworthy in the liver samples (8.470 ± 5.702 mg/kg). Pb stood out in the feathers (4.353 ± 20.645 mg/kg) > muscle (0.148 ± 0.095 mg/kg) > liver (0.187 ± 0.133 mg/kg). The presence of metals in feathers correlates with recent exposure and reflects environmental contamination. When using raptor feathers as indicators of metal contamination, it is important to know what the levels of each metal signify. The analysis of the different tissues and organs of raptors, such as the common kestrel, provides valuable information on the degree of environmental contamination of the ecosystem in which it lives. Gender was not an influencing factor in this study.