Mercury in different feather types from Great Cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo L.) inhabiting the Vistula Lagoon ecosystem in Poland

Abstract

Total mercury levels in different feather types (down, contour, tail and flight) in Great Cormorants (Phala-crocorax carbo L.) were determined using CV-AAS. Feathers from Great Cormorants inhabiting the Vistula Lagoon ecosystem have an average Hg level of 7.14 ± 3.99 (μg/g w.w.). Age-dependent concentrations of Hg were statistically significant (ANOVA Kruskal-Wallis, p<0.0001). There were also significant differences in Hg levels in different parts of feathers from adults and immature birds (ANOVA Kruskal-Wallis, p <0.0001). Cormorant chick feathers appear to be a potential biomonitor of Hg pollution in the Vistula Lagoon ecosystem, but this subject requires further research. © The Author(s) 2012.