Photos provided by Tamarack Wildlife Center An eagle that was admitted to Tamarack Wildlife Center that was suffering from lead toxicity.

With rifle season underway, wildlife conservators are asking hunters and anglers to consider reducing their contribution of utilizing lead that negatively affects wildlife.

Although exposure to lead occurs throughout the year, birds are more likely to experience severe exposure between November and February.

According to Carol Holmgren, Executive Director and licensed wildlife rehabilitator at Tamarack Wildlife Center, “One-third of the bald eagles admitted at Tamarack test positive for lead toxicity.”

“It is difficult for a bird to make a recovery from lead toxicity; we have the equipment and medication to treat lead toxicity but lead leaches into their bloodstream, turning it into a neurotoxin and affecting their immune system,” said Holmgren.

Even if lead toxicity does not lead to death directly, the weakened immune system makes birds more susceptible to infections from other pathogens, such as bacteria and fungi.

Lead toxicity isn’t new and has been recognized in humans and domestic animals for over decades. Hunters and anglers can help protect the environment by preventing lead from affecting non-target species.

Holmgren said, “A practical option is to use non-lead ammunition and fishing tackle.”

The performance of non-lead ammunition is comparable to lead alternatives, and the costs of non-lead options are becoming more affordable.

Additionally, hunters can retrieve carcasses and gut piles from the environment.

Carcasses or gut piles too large to remove can be buried or covered with debris to prevent scavengers from accessing them and consuming the lead fragments.

“Taking a few extra steps can help keep eagles and other fowl safe from lead toxicity,” said Holmgren.

Tamarack Wildlife Center’s Holmgren gives a presentation, “Hope for Eagles: Preventing Lead Poisoning in PA Eagles,” to sports clubs and environmental organizations to help spread the word. TWC can be reached by calling (814) 763-2574.