Heavy Metals Levels in Water and Faecal Samples of Wild Animal Species at the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden

Abstract

Urban wildlife including those in zoological gardens may be at risk of heavy metal exposure eliciting from anthropogenic sources. Determining heavy metal levels especially through non-invasive techniques is important in comprehending their ecological effects. The goal of this study was to evaluate heavy metals levels in water and faecal samples collected from enclosures of wild animals [carnivores (n=16), herbivores (n=10) and omnivores (n=11)] at the University of Ibadan zoological garden as a biomarker of exposure. Samples collected were subjected to heavy metals determination using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer sequel to wet acid digestion. Statistical significant difference was only observed in the concentrations of Zinc (P=0.009) in the faecal samples across the animal groups. Results from the study confirmed exposure to heavy metals by the studied animal species. Also, the heavy metals above permissible limits can cause acute and chronic toxicities in the wild animals and may threaten their long-term health.