ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A 10-year study of Adirondack loons shows mercury contamination can lead to population declines because birds with elevated mercury levels produce fewer chicks than those with low levels, researchers said Thursday.

The report summarizes field research conducted from 1998 to 2007 by the Biodiversity Research Institute and the Wildlife Conservation Society. The work, sponsored by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, gathered baseline data to monitor mercury and support environmental regulation.