Organochlorine pesticides in feathers of three raptor species in southern Brazil.

In this study, we determined the presence of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in back feathers from three raptor species, Phalcoboenus chimango, Milvago chimachima and Caracara plancus. Samples were obtained from live animals and ten OCPs were detected: α-HCH, β-HCH and γ-HCH (lindane), heptachlor, heptachlor epoxide, aldrin, endosulfan I, endosulfan II, endosulfan sulfate and p,p'-DDE. The concentrations found were higher than those reported in other raptor species, and C. plancus showed greater values than P. chimango and M. chimachima for all the substances. These differences may be justified by the species feeding habits and the characteristics of the sampling area, since C. plancus were sampled in an area with a higher concentration of agricultural crops and urbanized environments. In relation to the possible negative effects, four individuals of C. plancus presented DDE values related to sublethal effects for other species. This is the first study reporting OCPs in back feathers of these species in Brazil, and further studies evaluating OCP exposure and related effects are important for a better understanding of the consequences of different OCP concentrations on the health of these species.