Briefing: Birds of prey act as sentinels to warn of forever chemicals

The study identifies raptors, such as hawks and eagles, as effective sentinel species for assessing the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment. These birds are crucial for understanding ecological health.

High concentrations of PFAS have been detected in local bird populations, suggesting widespread contamination. This raises concerns about the implications for both wildlife and human health.

The findings underscore the importance of integrating biological indicators into environmental monitoring strategies, particularly in areas suspected of PFAS pollution.