Acid deposition :: Blue Tit

Latin name: 
Parus caeruleus

Impact Type: Deposition of pollutant

Key Concerns:

It has been demonstrated that anthropogenic acid deposition can significantly reduce levels of available calcium in soil and the abundance of calcareous items such as snail shells. Recent research in areas adversely affected by acid deposition in continental Europe has suggested that reduced calcium availability has resulted in an increased incidence of eggshell defects in small birds (Pyatt et al. 1998, Weimer & Schmidt 1998).

However, research by Ramsay & Houston (1999) in the UK failed to find evidence reduced calcium availability was causing egg shell defects in blue tits. Effects will be worse when there is no source of Ca2+ to replenish soil losses.

Additional Comments:

There are other possible cause of eggshell thinning such as POPs and heavy metals. 

Critical Load/level: 
Critical Load/ Level

No estimate available

References: 
Pyatt, F.B.; Lacy, D.; Pyatt, A.J. 1998 Some effects of acid rain on the mobilisation of elements from bird eggs. Fresenius Environmental Bulletin 7 334-337
Weimer, V.; Schmidt, K.J. 1998 Studies on the egg quality of the Great Tit (Parus major) in relation to soil-condition. Journal Fur Ornithologie 139 3-9
Species group: 
Pollutant: