Death of loon at Lake Winnipesaukee linked to lead poisoning
MOULTONBOROUGH (AP) — N.H. authorities say a loon found dead at Lake Winnipesaukee has been linked to lead poisoning.
The loon was found on the beach at Loon Cove of Alton Bay. The University of New Hampshire Veterinary Laboratory found a lead jig in the bird and blood tests revealed toxic blood lead levels.
The state Fish and Game Department and the Loon Preservation Committee urge anglers to stop using lead tackle to protect loons, which are threatened in the state and protected federally. They emphasize alternatives made of steel, tungsten, tin, bismuth and other materials.
A new law that goes into effect in New Hampshire on June 1, 2016, will ban the sale and freshwater use of lead fishing sinkers and hooks weighing one ounce or less.
