Source: Wisconsin Public Radio
Researchers have found that high levels of PFAS, known as “forever chemicals,” in Wisconsin bald eagle nestlings may weaken their immune systems and reduce their ability to fight disease. The Great Lakes Bald Eagle Health Project, which has monitored contaminants in eagles since 1990, began analyzing PFAS in eaglet blood samples in 2023. Scientists collected samples from about 50 eaglets in several regions, including Lake Superior, the Wisconsin River, Green Bay, and Lake Michigan.
Some eaglets showed PFAS levels as high as 600 parts per billion, far exceeding thresholds used in human fish consumption guidelines. Laboratory tests revealed that eaglets with higher PFAS levels had lower natural antibody responses and altered white blood cell counts, suggesting reduced immune function. While the birds are not dying outright, researchers warn the contamination could make them more vulnerable to infections such as avian flu. Scientists note that eaglets serve as important indicators of environmental and potential human health risks.