Reducing heavy metal pollution can help improve bird populations, report Finnish researchers. Tapio Eeva and Esa Lehikoinen of the University of Turku, Finland, studied pied flycatchers ( Ficedula hypoleuca ) and great tits ( Parus major ) around the copper smelter at Harjavalta, southwest Finland. A decade ago the plant started reducing emissions. The researchers noted that by 1997, the nests around Harjavalta contained on an average one chick more than they had 10 years ago. But, unlike flycatchers, tits are yet to show a recovery possibly because they feed on soil-dwelling invertebrates and it may take years before the clean up ( New Scientist , Vol 165, No 2227).
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.