Blue nests: The use of plastics in the nests of the crested oropendola ( Psarocolius decumanus) ) on the Brazilian Amazon coast

Author(s)

Lopes, Adrielle Caroline ; Kuznetsova, Maria ; Ferreira, Anderson Targino S. ; Wetter, Niklaus Ursus ; Giarrizzo, Tommaso ; Martinelli Filho, Jose Eduardo

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Marine Pollution Bulletin; v. 205, p. 7-pg., 2024-07-11.

Abstract

Birds have been impacted by plastic pollution via entanglement, accidental ingestion, and exposure to chemical contaminants. However, plastics were also observed as a nesting material for several species. For the first time, we describe the occurrence and composition of plastics in 36 nests of the crested oropendola ( Psarocolius decumanus) ) in three different sites on the Amazon coast. Plastics were present in 67 % of abandoned, fallen nests. At the mangrove site, all nests contained plastics, while at the grassy clearing and the fishermen's village, plastics were present at 35.3 and 90 % of the nests, respectively. Blue fibers and ropes were the main plastics observed, probably derived from discarded fishing gear. Of 79 analyzed fibers, 97.5 % were composed of Polyethylene, and 83.5 % contained Cobalt Phthalocyanine as an additive. Our results showed a widespread use of plastics by P. decumanus, , which may increase the exposure of both juveniles and adults to potential contaminants. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/12050-6 - Microplastic's geochronology in coastal sediment: analysis based on optically stimulated luminescence (LOE), stable isotopes (13C), thermal analysis, and GNSS positioning
• Grantee: ANDERSON TARGINO DA SILVA FERREIRA
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants