[Carbofuran poisoning in mallard ducks]

Area of Science:

• Environmental Toxicology
• Wildlife Pathology
• Pesticide Toxicology

Background:

• Carbamate pesticides, like carbofuran, are used to control soil nematodes.
• Carbofuran functions by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to neurotransmitter imbalance.

Observation:

• A mass mortality event involving 19 mallard ducks occurred near Lugano, Switzerland.
• The ducks died the morning after carbofuran application on a nearby meadow.

Findings:

• Carbamate poisoning causes excessive parasympathetic activation and skeletal muscle paralysis.
• Diagnosis was confirmed by detecting carbofuran in the ducks' stomach, blood, muscle, and kidney tissues.
• Asphyxia due to neurotoxic effects is the likely cause of death.

Implications:

• Highlights the acute toxicity of carbofuran to non-target avian wildlife.
• Underscores the risks of pesticide use in sensitive ecological areas.
• Emphasizes the need for careful pesticide management to prevent wildlife poisoning incidents.