Agrochemicals are routinely used to protect crops from a wide variety of pests. Over time, adaptation by the target organisms to the various pesticides results in a decreased susceptibility to the chemical compounds. These compounds are then modified or completely new compounds are developed in order to provide crop protection. This constant battle has produced a continuous stream of new and more potent agrochemicals.

The application of these pesticides however often results in the exposure of non-target organisms (birds, fish, humans) to these same compounds. Migratory birds are particularly susceptible to these exposures as they may travel over long distances stopping to eat and drink at sites where these chemicals are applied.

While these compounds are tested for their acute toxicities to non-target organisms, very little is generally known about the impact of low-dose non-acutely toxic exposures. These exposures could impact the organism on a population level through effects on migration or reproductive activities.

It is important therefore to develop a model which can be used for testing the impact of these compounds on migratory bird species to ensure their protection in the wild. This is particularly important from the standpoint that these birds are protected by an international treaty known as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and that Nevada serves as a flyway for many migratory birds.