Feminizing The World

The Times Of India reports on a new study into the increasing problem of the feminization of species caused by "gender-bending" chemicals in the environment:

Those identified as gender-benders as they interfere with hormones in males include phthalates, used widely in food wrapping, cosmetics and baby powders among other applications; flame retardants in household furniture and electrical goods; and many pesticides. "This research shows that the basic male tool kit is under threat," the study's lead author Gwynne Lyons was quoted by 'The Independent' as saying. Researchers have based their study on an analysis of over 250 scientific researches worldwide. The study concentrates mainly on wildlife, identifying effects in species ranging from the polar bears of the Arctic to the island of the South African plains, and from whales in the depths of the oceans to high-flying falcons and eagles.

It concludes: "Males of species from each of the main classes of vertebrate animals (including bony fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals) have been affected by chemicals in the environment. "Feminisation of the males of numerous vertebrate species is now a widespread occurrence. All vertebrates have similar sex hormone receptors, which have been conserved in evolution. Therefore, observations in one species may serve to highlight pollution issues of concern for other vertebrates, including humans."

Although it's not mentioned in this story, birth control medications in the water supply is often cited as a large contributor to the problem. It's become a common talking point for anti-abortion activists.