HEALTH STATUS INCLUDING LEAD LEVELS OF NESTLING BALD EAGLES (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHALUS) ON PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA IN 2012 AND 2013

Published research on the health status of wild bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) in Eastern Canada is limited. This study examined the health status of 53 nestling bald eagles on Prince Edward Island in the summers of 2012 and 2013, including biochemistry reference intervals, a summary of hematological parameters, and background lead accumulation. Baseline lead levels of greater than 0.02 ppm were noted in nine nestlings, and the odds of lead accumulation decreased with increased weight and body condition score. Biochemical reference intervals were developed using a method outlined by the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology. These intervals can vary between populations based on age and geographic area. These findings will therefore be useful in further research and clinical cases within this population, as well as further research into subclinical lead accumulation in growing raptors.

Automated summary

This study examines the health status of wild bald eagles in Eastern Canada, focusing on biochemistry reference intervals, hematological parameters, and background lead accumulation. The findings reveal the presence of lead accumulation in some nestling eagles, with a decrease in the odds of lead accumulation as weight and body condition score increase. These results provide valuable insights for further research and clinical cases, as well as the study of subclinical lead accumulation in growing raptors.