The variability and significance of selenium concentrations in Shorebird feathers

The selenium distribution in the flight feathers of a marine wader, the Oystercatcher (Heamatopus ostralegus), is investigated. In the wing the highest concentrations are found in the outer primaries, notably primary 8. The inner tail feather exceeds the primary 8 concentration. Whithin the vane of a single feather, the highest concentrations are found in the tip, the lowest at the basis of the feather. The results are discussed in relation to the use of the feather as an indicator of selenium exposure.In comparing marine wader species shortly after completion of the feather growth, a negative relation is found between the fresh primary 8 vane concentration and body weight of the species. A functional role of selenium in respect to the metabolic rate is suggested.