Story perspectives

Bald Eagle Dies from Lead Poisoning; Hunters Urged to Switch Ammo

9/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A bald eagle at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in Virginia died from lead poisoning, with blood levels near 3,000 micrograms per deciliter.
The eagle was unable to fly, likely due to lead ingestion from scavenging.
About 90% of treated bald eagles at the center show some lead poisoning.
Wildlife experts recommend hunters use copper-based ammunition to minimize lead exposure.
By 2026, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge will mandate non-lead ammunition.

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Story summary

A bald eagle at Blue Ridge Wildlife Center in Virginia died from lead poisoning, with blood levels near 3,000 micrograms per deciliter.
The eagle was unable to fly, likely due to lead ingestion from scavenging.
About 90% of treated bald eagles at the center show some lead poisoning.
Wildlife experts recommend hunters use copper-based ammunition to minimize lead exposure.
By 2026, the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge will mandate non-lead ammunition.