Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine whether a high heavy metal contamination (Cd, Pb) as well as a high contamination with organochlorine compounds (PCB) in selected individuals induces changes in specified health status parameters (immune status, exposure to different viruses) in freeliving deer. Therefore, extremely polluted regions (Bitterfeld (B) and Harz (H) ) were compared with regions of very low pollution levels (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (MVP) and Schleswig-Holstein (SH)). Free-living species with small home ranges such as roe deer are particularly suitable bio-indicators. Their residue concentration reflect the local contamination of their food and water supply, as well as the range of accumulation of persistent contaminants within the food chain. Overall a positive association between polluted regions and an above average cadmium level could be detected in all age groups. Regarding lead contamination significant differences were only found between roe deer in the Harz compared to roe deer in SH, MVP, and B. Only low concentrations of organochlorine compounds were detected. Regional differences were present regarding unspecific irnmunological parameters. Nevertheless, these differences were independent of Cd contamination. Furthermore, this study show that the specific immune response against different viral agents is probably not influenced by an increased contamination with Cd. This is consistent with previous studies describe in the literature. In conclusion, Cd contaminated roe deer have not been found to have a reduced health condition considering the afore mentioned parameters. A possible explanation could be that the life span of roe deer is usually too short for heavy metal contamination to induce a distinct chronic effect on these health status parameters. © 2001, Blackwell Wissenschafts-Verlag.