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TitleVariation in immune function body condition and feather corticosterone in nestling tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) on reclaimed wetlands in the Athabasca oil sands Alberta, Canada
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2010
AuthorsHarms, J. N., Fairhurst G. D., Bortolotti G. R., & Smits J. E. G.
Volume158
Pagination7 pages
Date Published12/2013
PublisherEnvironmental Pollution
Publication Languageeng
Keywordsbirds, toxicity, UofS, wetlands
Abstract

In the Athabasca oil sands region of northern Alberta, mining companies are evaluating reclamation using constructed wetlands for integration of tailings. From May to July 2008, reproductive performance of 40 breeding pairs of tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor), plus growth and survival of nestlings, was measured on three reclaimed wetlands on two oil sands leases. A subset of nestlings was examined for i) feather corticosterone levels, ii) delayed-type hypersensitivity response, and iii) innate immune function. Nestlings on one of two wetlands created with oil sands process affected material (OSPM) were heavier and had greater wing-lengths, and mounted a stronger delayed-type hypersensitivity response compared those on the reference wetland. Corticosterone was significantly higher in male nestlings on one of two OSPM-containing wetland compared to the reference wetland. Body condition of 12-day-old female nestlings was inversely related to feather corticosterone. Under ideal weather conditions, reclaimed wetlands can support healthy populations of aerially-insectivorous birds.

URLhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/38029965
Locational Keywords

Athabasca Oil Sands Region (AOSR)

Active Link

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/568748617

Group

OSEMB

Citation Key54213

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