Levels of organochlorine pesticides in raptors from the North-West Province, South Africa

Abstract

Smith, I. & Bouwman, H. 2000. Levels of organochlorine pesticides in raptors from the North-West Province, South Africa. Ostrich 71 (1 & 2): 36–39.

The levels of organochlorine pesticides in raptors from southern Africa remain poorly known. We found generally low levels of DDE, dieldrin and endosulfan in the blood of 20 raptors from the North-West Province, South Africa. Despite the low levels, these pesticides were present in all the birds, raising the issue of combined effects. The continuing use of organochlorines, despite their ban in many developed countries, remains. Trends in contamination and use elsewhere should therefore be monitored on a more regular basis, while the sampling of blood, rather than eggs seems to provide adequate information. The effects of other pesticides should also be investigated.