Use of marine anthropogenic litter as a potential risk of pollution to the burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) on the beaches of the Brazilian Amazon coast

Marine anthropogenic litter (MAL) pollution is a growing concern in coastal environments. These ecosystems are home to rich biodiversity but face significant challenges due to the accumulation of plastics and other solid waste, compromising the region's natural aesthetics and environmental health. This study investigates how marine pollution and the accumulation of MAL impact these ecosystems. We use the burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) as an example to illustrate the potential risks associated with this pollution, especially for those species that nest near coastal regions along the Brazilian Amazon coast. At Atalaia Beach, the data collected revealed a significant diversity of MAL, totaling approximately 532 items. Among them, styrofoam and foam were the most representative, with 33.08% and 21.05%, respectively, totaling 54.14% of the recorded MAL. The distribution of these materials indicates a correlation with human activities, especially the use of plastics for fishing and recreation. Notably, styrofoam and foam were frequently found in burrowing owl burrows, highlighting the use of MAL around nests and the potential risks this plastic material poses to the species' nesting and rearing of their chicks. [Display omitted] •Marine anthropogenic litter may affect terrestrial environments and their biodiversity•Styrofoam and foam fragments predominate up to 1 m inside the burrow•Plastic materials in the burrow highlight the vulnerability of the burrowing owl's•Integrated approaches between land and sea can mitigate marine pollution in terrestrial systems