Researchers report harmful levels of toxic lead were found in the bones of 46% of bald eagles sampled in 38 states.
Similar rates of lead exposure were found in golden eagles, which scientists say means the raptors likely consumed carrion or prey contaminated by lead from ammunition or fishing tackle.
“This is the first time for any wildlife species that we’ve been able to evaluate lead exposure and population level consequences at a continental scale,” said study co-author Todd Katzner, a wildlife biologist at U.S. Geological Survey in Boise, Idaho. “It’s sort of stunning that nearly 50% of them are getting repeatedly exposed to lead.”
The study estimated that lead exposure reduced the annual population growth of bald eagles by 4% and golden eagles by 1%.But scientists say that high lead levels are still a concern. Besides suppressing eagle population growth, lead exposure reduces their resilience in facing future challenges, such as climate change or infectious diseases.
The researchers also found elevated levels of lead exposure in fall and winter, coinciding with hunting season in many states.
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