Exploratory Experiments on the Stability of Mineral Profiles of Feathers

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Abstract
Feather chemistry has been suggested as a possible basis for identifying members of local populations of migratory birds. Problems relating to the stability of feather mineral profiles have not been resolved. Findings from an exploratory study of the stability of feather mineral profiles are reported. Mineral profiles of feathers were significantly affected by techniques of washing and of chemical analysis. Findings indicate that metal ions obtained from the environment are adsorbed to primaries. On exposure to chemically different environments, mineral profiles of feathers become modified through ion exchange. Modification possibly occurs throughout the life of a feather. Both ionic and covalent bonding are apparently involved. Although modified, profiles tended to maintain individuality and general group affinity. Thus potential use of mineral profiles in population analysis is not rejected. Methods for preparing sample feathers for analysis are discussed.