Seabirds in a flap: The ingestion of meso/macro marine debris, microplastics and oil/tar by marine and coastal birds in the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

This study provides the first published data on the ingestion of solid marine debris, microplastics (MPs), and oil/tar by marine and coastal birds in the Middle East, focusing on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman coasts of the Sharjah Emirate, UAE. The gastrointestinal tracts of 478 stranded seabirds from 17 species were examined. With the majority of specimens collected being Black-headed Gulls (Chroicocephalus ridibundus; N = 406; 77 juveniles, 326 adults, and 3 unknown) the analysis of their ingested marine debris was done in greatest detail, followed by Socotra Cormorants (Phalacrocorax nigrogularis; N = 23; 7 juveniles, 13 adults and 3 unknown) and large white-headed gulls (Larus sp.; N = 29; 6 juveniles and 23 adults). Across all species marine debris was detected in 12.8 % of specimens, with solid debris found in 11.1 % and oil globules in 1.67 %. Plastics were the most common material ingested by Black headed Gulls, followed by glass. Juvenile Large white-headed gulls ingested significantly more debris than adults. Polyethylene (PE) was the predominant type of plastic ingested. MPs were examined in 20 specimens consisting of 14 Black-headed Gulls and 6 Socotra Cormorants. Most MPs (77.8 %) were microfibers, suggesting wastewater discharge from laundry as a likely source. Interactions with oil globules and fishing hooks posed the greatest acute risk to seabirds. This study highlights the significant impact of marine pollution on seabirds in a previously unexamined region, underscoring the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to protect vulnerable species in the Middle East.