Detection of elements and radioactivity in pellets from long-eared owls (Asio otus) inhabiting the city of Belgrade (Serbia)

Abstract

In this study, we analysed pellets from long-eared owls (Asio otus) collected from four localities in Belgrade (Serbia). The pellets contained the remains of prey, namely voles (Arvicola terrestris) and field mice (Apodemus agrarius). The concentrations of 14 elements (Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Zn, Sr, Ba, Mn, Ti, Cu, Si, B) were evaluated in whole pellets and in samples containing only bone tissue, which were dissected from the whole pellet. The increased levels of certain elements, including Mn, Zn, Ba, Cu and radioactive K-40, indicate contamination of the soil by various sources, such as industrial plants and agricultural practices. From the results presented in this article, we suggest that the analysis of owl pellets may indicate the quality of the local environment.