Study type: Medical/biological study (observational study)

MF magnitude does not affect body condition, pro-oxidants and anti-oxidants in Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) nestlings med./bio.

Published in: Environ Res 2007; 104 (3): 361-366

Aim of study (acc. to author)

To investigate the effects of 50 Hz magnetic fields from power lines on body condition, serum carotenoids and oxidative stress parameters in Eurasian kestrel nestlings.

Background/further details

Eurasian kestrels use readily nest boxes directly mounted under electric power lines. Consequently, nestlings are exposed since their embryonal development in the egg until fledging and hence represent a useful model to study the potential effects from power lines on wild animals.
The nestlings (5-31 day old) were collected from different nest boxes in the area of Rome. For each nest, the magnetic flux density was measured inside the box. Additionally, nestlings from non-exposed boxes (e.g. mounted on buildings) were collected.
In 2002, data from 100 nestlings out of 27 nests were recorded. In 2003, body condition and serum carotenoids were recorded from 164 nestlings out of 40 nests and oxidative stress parameters from 163 nestlings out of 39 nests.

Endpoint

Exposure

Exposure Parameters
Exposure 1: 50 Hz
Exposure duration: breeding season of 2002 or 2003

Exposure 1

Main characteristics
Frequency 50 Hz
Type
Exposure duration breeding season of 2002 or 2003
Exposure setup
Exposure source
Setup nests in nesting boxes, fixed on power line pylons or mounted on non-electric pylons and buildings at a height between 7 m and 20 m from the ground
Parameters
Measurand Value Type Method Mass Remarks
magnetic flux density 0.6 µT minimum measured - in 2002
magnetic flux density 5.27 µT mean measured - ± 1.01 µT; in 2002
magnetic flux density 20.44 µT maximum measured - in 2002
magnetic flux density 0 µT minimum measured - in 2003
magnetic flux density 4.72 µT mean measured - ± 0.67 µT; in 2003
magnetic flux density 15.46 µT maximum measured - in 2003

Exposed system:

Methods Endpoint/measurement parameters/methodology

Investigated system:
Time of investigation:
  • during exposure
  • after exposure

Main outcome of study (acc. to author)

No significant relationship was found between the determined magnetic flux density and the examined variables.
The data indicate that 50 Hz magnetic fields from power lines have no effect on the body condition, serum carotenoids and oxidative stress parameters in Eurasian kestrel nestlings.

Study character:

Study funded by

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