Qualitative Effects Associated with Red Phosphorus Smoke Inhalation Exposures in Two Wildlife Species: Prairie Dogs and Rock Doves

Abstract

Effects of red phosphorus/butyl rubber (RPIBR) smoke on two wildlife species, prairie dogs and rock doves (pigeons), were evaluated in laboratory range-finding experiments. Prairie dogs exposed to either 2.0, 4.0, or 6.0 mg/L concentrations of smoke showed no mortality within 30 days after one to four 1-h exposure sessions. Rock doves exposed to either 3.0 or 6.0 mg/L concentrations over 1–4 sessions, however, showed 26% mortality within 8 days postexposure. Male rock doves were much more vulnerable to RP/BR smoke effects, with 42% mortali% in contrast to 6% in the females. Assessments indicated affected or lost vocalization capability in both species, abnormal body postures in rock doves, and increased respiratory congestion in prairie dogs postexposure. Neither species showed definite, consistent effects in gross necropsy and histopathology assessments. Only a few of the rock doves in 6.0 mg/L groups showed signs of excess mucus or exudate in their nasal passages and larynges.