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Although we do not yet know what is responsible for the beak deformities observed in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, there are several possible causes to consider. In general, beak deformities may be influenced by contaminants, nutritional deficiencies, disease, parasites, blunt trauma, or genetic abnormalities. We tested for contaminants, disease, and parasites. We also examined genetic components to determine if deformities are heritable or result from genetic abnormalities. We have some evidence for environmental contaminants as a possible causative factor, but more research is needed. Possible nutritional deficiencies also deserve further study.
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| Black-capped Chickadee, photo by Robert Gill |
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