NSAIDs and Avian Scavengers

March 28, 2025

The availability of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac and flunixin poses risk to avian scavengers in South America. A recent study found a widespread registration of these drugs across ten Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries. Researchers revealed that these substances are approved for use in various livestock and domestic animals, raising concerns about their impact on local bird populations.

Widespread Availability of NSAIDs

Diclofenac and flunixin are prevalent in South America. All ten countries evaluated have approved at least one NSAID product for livestock. Brazil leads with 23 diclofenac products, followed closely by Argentina with 20. Colombia has the highest number of flunixin products, with 58 registered. The majority of these products target bovines, porcines, and equines.

Impact on Avian Scavengers

South America is home to at least 21 scavenging raptor species, including six New World vulture species. While the turkey vulture has shown some tolerance to diclofenac, little is known about the effects on other species like the Andean condor, which is classified as Vulnerable. Current population declines are attributed to human-wildlife conflicts, including pesticide poisoning.

Risks of Diclofenac and Flunixin

The toxicity of diclofenac in New World vultures remains largely unassessed. There is no data on its effects on species such as the king vulture or the greater yellow-headed vulture, which are also experiencing population declines. Flunixin’s effects on these birds are similarly undocumented.

Conservation Implications

The findings call for immediate action to address the potential threats from veterinary pharmaceuticals. Conservation strategies must incorporate the impact of these drugs on scavenger species. Effective management will require collaboration between wildlife conservationists and agricultural sectors to ensure the safety of avian scavengers.

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