Comparative analysis of heavy metal accumulation in urban pigeon feathers: A case study in the Zinc Industrial Town of Zanjan

This study assesses heavy metal pollution in Zanjan's Zinc Industrial Town by analyzing cadmium, zinc, and lead in feathers from 200 pigeons (80 males and 80 females, both living and deceased) and 40 control samples using flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The results revealed significantly higher concentrations of these metals in pigeons from the industrial area compared to controls. Specifically, cadmium levels reached 1.927 μ g g − 1 in deceased female pigeons, compared to 0.729 μ g g − 1 in the control group. Lead concentrations were 17.455 μ g g − 1 in the feathers of deceased pigeons, compared to 2.895 μ g g − 1 in controls. Zinc levels in deceased female pigeons were as high as 378.75 μ g g − 1 , compared to 61.995 μ g g − 1 in controls. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant correlation between metal accumulation and the gender of the pigeons, underscoring the impact of industrial pollution on local wildlife. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of using pigeon feathers as bioindicators for monitoring environmental pollution. • Columba livia feathers for a bioindicator for non-invasive pollution assessment. • Heavy metal concentrations were higher in the feathers of dead pigeons. • Heavy metal ions affect the body mass and wing length of pigeons. • Female pigeons are more exposed to accumulation due to their biological conditions.