In what is the first such evidence, researchers have found synthetic fibres in the droppings of Indian cormorants and Oriental darters, both common fish-eating birds of Kerala’s wetlands. The study was conducted at Vembanad Lake, a Ramsar site and the country’s largest brackish water ecosystem that supports thousands of resident wetland birds. Led by zoologist Sarlin Pathissery John and Sandie Morris, the study detected five major types of plastic polymers—including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene—in the bird droppings. Using advanced spectroscopic analysis, the team found microplastics in every single sample. These polymers are commonly used in carry bags, fishing gear, and packaging materials.