Researchers from the University of Glasgow report new evidence that microplastics are widely present in freshwater ecosystems and being ingested by wildlife. In a study published in the journal *Environmental Research*, scientists analysed non-invasively collected fecal samples from nestlings of the freshwater bird species the white-throated dipper (Cinclus cinclus) in both Scotland and the Basque Country in Spain.
They detected microplastics—predominantly fibres—in about 62.5% of sampled broods, particularly in birds nesting near urban or agricultural landscapes, demonstrating pervasive exposure across different European environments. Although the study did not find clear short-term adverse effects on the birds’ early body condition, it highlights widespread ingestion of microplastics by small freshwater birds and underscores the need for further research into long-term health outcomes for freshwater wildlife.
The findings contribute to mounting international concern about microplastic contamination beyond marine environments and emphasize that even species recolonising previously polluted rivers are ingesting synthetic particles. Continued monitoring of microplastic contamination in freshwater ecosystems is needed to better understand ecological and health implications for wildlife and possibly humans.
