Search
Close this search box.

Juvenile bald eagle being treated in Freeport, suspected lead poisoning

A juvenile bald eagle is receiving emergency care from wildlife staff at the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Florida after likely lead poisoning, the animal rescue said Tuesday. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission alerted Alaqua’s wildlife team on Monday about the downed eagle, estimated to be less than six months old. The bird […]

Alaqua Animal Refuge

A juvenile bald eagle is receiving emergency care from wildlife staff at the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport, Florida after likely lead poisoning, the animal rescue said Tuesday.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission alerted Alaqua’s wildlife team on Monday about the downed eagle, estimated to be less than six months old. The bird exhibited swelling in one ankle and neurological symptoms, according to Alaqua.

Veterinarians ran blood tests and took radiographs to check for rodenticide or lead poisoning, which Alaqua said affects around 70% of admitted bald eagles. Results showed suspected lead toxicity, although further radiograph results are still pending.

Alaqua Animal Refuge
  • The eagle is currently perching in an outdoor enclosure while undergoing treatment, the center said.

The Refuge stressed the need for donations to fund medical technology that could allow “more speed and accuracy” in diagnosing and treating wildlife. The center is also requesting bait fish donations to feed the influx of migratory birds arriving with injuries, she said.

“With migration season in full swing, we are seeing a lot more Avian injuries lately,” wrote Alaqua on social media. “If you or anyone you know have any to donate, our feathered friends would greatly appreciate it.”

Alaqua Animal Refuge
Alaqua Animal Refuge

One Response

Join the conversation...

Continue reading 👇

Community Comments

“We are going to be out of town that weekend, wish we were going to be here to attend.”
Respond
“In June 1954, my family sailed on the SS United States from New York to LaHavre, France. In Sept, we returned from England to New York. It was a fantastic...”
Respond
“Does anyone know if another bar / restaurant is going in the space?”
Respond
“The SS United States is one of the last floating vintage ships. It holds the blue ribband still to this day. It’s got more power than any battleship. It is...”
Respond
“Leave that magnificent ship alone we need to try to save her and refurbish her into a floating museum”
Respond
“This was literally the only place affordable that I could stay and come visit. The island is ruined now.”
Respond
“Yeah these top name performers aren’t going to show up for less than top dollar when they are filling stadiums. Better keep it to the had beens to make it...”
Respond
“Lot of dumb responses on here. He is a medical doctor, licensed by the state medical board. Osteopathic physicians and allopathic physicians are essentially interchangeable, their residency training is exactly...”
Respond
“You won't get ANY help from the city !!!! Remember who NOT to vote for at re-election time !!!! I've been to the city many times and NEVER get any...”
Respond
“Are bridges closed in okaloosa”
Respond