Michael Booth

Mercury Poisoning- a disease caused by exposure to mercury or its compounds

Where is it foundIt can be found naturally in the environment Can exist in many forms

ElementalInorganic mercury compounds Organic compounds

It becomes a problem when more then what naturally occurs is added to the environment

This can be done in many ways Burning of coal and hazardous waste are just

two of the major contributors

The affects on Wildlife may vary depending on what it is

Birds: Reproductive

Fewer and smaller eggs, lower hatch rates, and altered chick behavior

Behavioral Less likely to hunt or seek out shade

PhysiologicalTremors, difficulty flying ,and spinal cord

degeneration

Mammals:Neurological

Impaired sensory and motor skillsPhysiological

Weight loss

Overall affect on wildlife will be Death if they continue to live in the presence of extremely high levels of mercury

Definitive way to test is to look at Stomach contentsKidneysLiver

Encourage clean energy technologyReduce mercury air emissionPhase out products that contain mercuryPromote safe disposal of mercury