(Johnston, IA) — Since January, Iowa Bird Rehabilitation has been grappling with a surge in trumpeter swan deaths due to lead poisoning.
Typically, IBR takes in only one or two trumpeter swans annually, but recently, they’ve received 11 cases. Lead poisoning, likely from fishing tackle or remnants of lead shot, has been identified as the cause. The situation has been exacerbated by receding water levels, making it easier for swans to ingest lead fragments.
IBR urges the public to use lead-free tackle and ammunition and report any distressed birds.
