Effect of pollution on the reproductive energetics of the Arctic Terns at Svalbard

In this project I will look at pollutants (both organic compounds and heavy metals), in the blood and feathers of Arctic Terns nesting in Kongsfjorden the summer of 2020. I will also look at different physiological parameters, primarily thyroid hormon blood levels. The purpose is to see if there is any correlation between these parameters, which can help us to determine if the chemicals have some impact on the reproductive energetics of the Arctic Tern, and therefore the overall health of the animals. If this is the case, one may expect also see effects on higher levels of biological organisation (population, community etc.), and considering the Arctic Tern occupies a low trophic level its possible all birds in the arctic food chain are at risk.