The Effects of Low Levels of Oil on Aquatic Birds. A Non-technical Summary of Research Activities, FY76 Through FY78

摘要

The reproductive period, including the time of growth and development of the young, is a highly sensitive time for any animal when physiological systems are acting at critical rates. Any slight interference, such as the addition of a stressful or toxic agent is likely to be disastrous. It has been demonstrated that exposure of adult waterbirds or their developing young to slight amounts of petroleum can seriously interfere with the reproductive process. Effects can range from interference with the physiology of reproduction to killing of embryos, production of developmental defects, stunting of growth and impairment of survival ability when birds are stressed. Oil can be taken up by adults in their food or picked up on their feathers, and from them can be transferred to eggs or nestlings.