Scientists have found neonicotinoid residues in the livers of wild turkeys, providing evidence that this common agrochemical is being ingested by free-ranging animals.

Researchers from the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada, say the study is one of the first to show the broader effects of neonics on wildlife.

Published at the end of last month in Environmental Science and Pollution Research, the study showed that nearly 10 of the 40 wild turkey carcases tested had detectable levels of neonicotinoids in their livers. Two types of the insecticide were found in some birds.