I was scrolling through reels on Instagram the other day. There was a story featuring how the Sheriffs department in Stafford County rescued 4 Bald Eagles in 1 week. 2 of the 4 eagles weren’t able to be saved, one due to multiple severe fractures and the other eagle due to lead poisoning. 90% of the eagles that are taken to Blue Ridge Rescue have lead poisoning. The lead poisoning is from hunter’s using ammunition containing lead and field dressing deer. Eagles are birds of prey so they will kill what they eat. They will also scavenge and eat animal carcasses. When the eagles eat animal carcasses containing lead shot they ingest the lead. Even a small exposure to lead can cause devastating illness in eagles. Common symptoms include brain swelling, respiratory distress, muscle weakness, dehydration, starvation, kidney and liver damage, and seizures. Associated neurological damage can result in loss of vision, coordination, and nerve function; the bird may appear “drunk” or be unable to stand. The feces often turn a vibrant, sickening green. While the hunters didn’t have the intentions of killing Bald Eagles. Their choice of ammunition and field dressing deer have caused lead poisoning in eagles. This is a great local example indirect human impact on nature. So where you are out hiking, fishing, hunting, going to the beach, etc. It’s important to practice the principles of leave no trace. When you are out in nature please make sure you’re following the 7 principles of leave no trace. A scout is obedient.