Trace Element Concentrations in Feathers of Migratory Birds from the Southern Caspian Sea Region, 2013

This dataset presents concentrations of eight trace elements—arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn)—measured in secondary flight feathers of waterbird species wintering along the southern Caspian Sea coast of Iran. Samples were collected in February 2013 from multiple species representing diverse feeding guilds and avian families. The data support ecological assessments of contaminant exposure in migratory birds and provide insight into trophic-level accumulation patterns. Elemental analysis was performed using standardized laboratory protocols, and values are reported in micrograms per gram dry weight (µg/g dw). This dataset contributes to regional biomonitoring efforts and can be used for comparative studies in avian ecotoxicology and environmental risk assessment.