RESCUED BALD EAGLE DIES OF LEAD POISONING

A bald eagle died of a heart attack while undergoing treatment for lead poisoning, the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance said.

The eagle, which was rescued last month in Elizabeth, ingested lead hunting ammunition while scavenging.

"Lead is a brutal toxin, and even when we pull these birds back from the edge, the damage can simply be too great," the wildlife alliance said. On arrival at the clinic, the majestic bird was suffering from respiratory distress, severe dehydration, tremors and neurological issues. "Lead poisoning remains one of the most preventable causes of death we see in scavenging wildlife," the alliance said. "Effective lead-free ammunition options are available, and many hunters are already making the switch." [Photo: Rocky Mountain Wildlife Alliance]