Choy

Fieldwork Overview

  • Fieldwork involves various data collection methods and procedures to study wildlife, particularly birds.

Blood Sampling and Analysis

  • Blood sampling is conducted on Day 12 of the project.

  • Samples are sent for analysis specifically for Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

  • Other potential analyses are still under consideration.

Fledgling Monitoring

  • To minimize risks associated with premature fledging of chicks:

    • Nest boxes are not checked until Day 25 to ensure chicks have left successfully.

  • Highlighted the importance of meticulous record-keeping during fieldwork.

    • Emphasis on data organization to avoid mislabeling or lost samples, which can lead to complications at the end of the sampling period.

Invertebrate Collection

  • Multiple methods are employed to collect diet-relevant invertebrates:

    • Sweep nets

    • Malaise traps

    • Pitfall traps

  • Invertebrate collection is concentrated around nesting boxes, within approximately 100 meters.

  • Volunteers are encouraged to assist with this physically demanding work and to gain field experience in the process.

Data Collection Goals

  • Invertebrates collected will undergo PFAS analysis.

    • Initial PFAS analysis on insect samples scheduled for November.

  • A significant number of bugs are collected, including those vital to the chicks' diets.

  • The fieldwork is labor-intensive but beneficial for physical conditioning, akin to gym workouts.

Collected Samples Description

  • Samples collected during the field season include:

    • Insects (collected using sweep nets, malaise traps, pitfall traps)

    • Soil for PFAS analysis

    • Egg samples (approximately one egg per successful nesting box)

    • Blood samples from chicks

    • Fecal samples for studying diet via environmental DNA (eDNA)

    • Feather samples to explore stable isotopes and potential analyses in the future.

Fecal Sampling and Its Importance

  • Fecal sampling is a new method exciting for dietary studies.

  • Environmental DNA extracted from fecal samples can provide insight into the birds' diets.

Transition to Laboratory Work

  • After collecting samples, the transition to lab work follows:

    • Major tasks during the fall term involve sorting collected invertebrates by order while observing their dietary relevance.

    • Each insect placed in petri dishes and sorted under a microscope.

    • Sorting aims to identify if there are specific differences in PFAS levels among insect orders that might be consumed by chicks.

Invertebrate Sorting Process

  • Soft-bodied invertebrates are classified:

    • Flies grouped with flies,

    • Ants, wasps, and bees sorted together,

    • Caterpillars categorized under the order Lepidoptera.

  • Caterpillars found to be prevalent based on the observed data.

  • Evidence shows inconsistency in diet items compared to existing literature, with a lack of crane fly larvae.

  • Samples are all preserved and sent for detailed analysis due to their importance in understanding contaminants.

Guidelines to Prevent Contamination

  • Awareness of contamination is critical in PFAS sampling, leading to the following guidelines:

    • Avoid applying makeup such as mascara and certain moisturizers.

    • Use minimal protective skincare or bug spray products to avoid false results.

    • Use separate sorting stations and clean environments, including wearing gloves.

Learning Curve in Fieldwork

  • Emphasis on continuous learning in science and fieldwork, as noted during sample identification exercises.

  • Examples of confusion in distinguishing between different insect groups:

    • Caterpillars vs. sawfly larvae identified using leg counts (five or less legs indicate caterpillars, more indicate sawfly larvae).

    • Recognition of true bugs and their classification based on distinct physical characteristics.

Next Steps in Research

  • Future plans include:

    • Preparing and shipping samples for analysis utilizing Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS or UPLCMS).

    • Conducting a bioaccumulation study focused on earthworms in various soils to understand PFAS uptake and elimination rates.

    • Investigating whether PFAS reductions are effective based on ongoing temporal trends:

    • Examples of trends in PFOA and PFOS concentrations described, indicating variability over the years.

    • Mention of high PFAS levels found in eggs of tree swallows near a landfill site.

    • Aim to explore feeding locations of birds and their correlation with PFAS levels, emphasizing environmental impact.

Community Engagement and Awareness

  • Fieldwork often occurs in public areas, promoting interaction with the community.

  • Importance of discussing research and its implications helps raise awareness about ecological sciences.

Research Historical Context

  • Bird boxes monitored since 2009, with locations chosen for their relevance to understanding PFAS effects.

  • Research locations include areas with differing environmental conditions (urban landfill vs. rural).