Organochlorine residues in two Norwegian puffin (Fratercula arctica) colonies

Abstract

Residue levels of the chlorinated hydrocarbons hexachlorobenzene (HCB), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), alpha-, beta-, and gamma-hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH), oxychlordane, trans-nonachlor, aldrin, and dieldrin in adult puffins (Fratercula arctica) from two colonies in Norway (Røst 67 degrees 30'N and Hornøy 70 degrees 20'N) showing differences in breeding performance were compared in 1982. Furthermore, residue levels in puffin chicks from Røst in 1982, when breeding failed totally, were compared with the corresponding levels in 1983, when breeding was successful. Residue levels of chlorinated hydrocarbons were also measured in eggs from Røst 1982. An autoradiographic study of the distribution of [14C]HCB in adult puffins and chicks from Røst 1982 was included. In general, organochlorine contamination was low, and the results are interpreted to eliminate the organochlorines as a serious factor for impaired reproduction in the Røst colony. Significant differences between the two colonies are discussed in relation to geographical and nutritional aspects. The finding of significantly higher levels of organochlorines in organ tissue from puffin chicks from Røst in 1982 compared to the corresponding levels in 1983 may reflect the dramatic difference in nutritional status between the two years.