Toxin Levels in Livers of Bald Eagles Analyzed to Gauge Species' Health [News]

Bangor Daily News
February 6, 2006

OLD TOWN - Four bald eagles lay on a conference room table, eyes closed, their talons stuck in a lifeless grip. Plastic bags wrapped like a blanket around the sides of the enormous birds.

Yet even in death, the eagles remain majestic and imposing creatures.

"With all the wildlife out there, there are some species that just grab you," said wildlife biologist Steve Mierzykowski, looking down at the birds. For him, eagles are at the top of that list.

That said, the biologist had a job to do this Sunday morning, and not exactly a pretty one. But it is one that should provide valuable clues to the health of Maine's eagles.

Using a scalpel and medical scissors, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist carefully parted a bird's feathers and sliced through its skin and flesh as he slowly made his way toward the liver. A few well-placed snips and Mierzykowski removed the liver, placing it in a specimen jar. (Photo courtesy of John Clarke Russ)

>>> FULL ARTICLE