Toxicity Abstracts

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​​Toxicology 101
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Sarah Reich, DVM
Willowbrook Wildlife Center, IL
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Full Abstract

Wildlife species not only are subject to direct impacts from human conflict but also are exposed to a variety of accidental/ unintended by-products of human civilization. Lead, rodenticide, oil, and pentobarbital are some of the many compounds species are exposed to on a regular basis. While there are geographic barriers to some toxicological compounds and some species-specific sensitivities, most rehabilitators or facilities encounter toxicological diseases at some point. Topics covered include clinical presentations and treatment options for commonly encountered toxicologic conditions.

Cases of Suspected & Confirmed Carbofuran Toxicosis in Eagles

Erica Miller, DVM
University of Pennsylvania, DE
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Full Abstract

Carbofuran is a neurotoxic carbamate pesticide that inhibits the enzyme cholinesterase, resulting in overstimulation
of the parasympathetic nervous system and the central nervous system. Birds are not able to metabolize carbamates well, making them susceptible to both primary and secondary intoxication, so convulsions and death are not uncommon sequelae. Nearly every year since 2002, Tri-State Bird Rescue & Research has received bald eagles with clinical signs of carbamate toxicity. Rapid recognition and treatment can lead to full recovery of affected birds, and rapid removal of carcasses may prevent other animals from becoming poisoned.

Lead Toxicity:
​It’s Not Just For The Birds
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Leslie Reed, DVM
The Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota, MN
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Full Abstract

Lead toxicity is a common reason wild avians—specifically waterbirds such as ducks, swans, geese, and loons and raptors such as eagles and vultures—are presented to wildlife rehabilitation centers. However, the ingestion of lead fragments and subsequent toxic effects are not just affecting avian species. Several species of wild mammals including squirrels and opossums admitted at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota have had detectable lead levels and observable clinical symptoms of lead toxicity. This lecture highlights the prevalence of these cases and discusses diagnosis, treatment options, prognosis, and euthanasia guidelines.

Heavy Metal Toxicity in a Turkey Vulture


McKenzie Joslin-Snyder
​Portland Audubon Wildlife Care Center, OR

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Video coming soon

Full Abstract

In May 2019, the Portland Audubon Wildlife Care Center admitted a Turkey Vulture with very high lead levels and symptoms of heavy metal toxicity including, anemia, hind limb paresis, and crop stasis. Over the course of more than 120 days in treatment, the bird improved and was ultimately released in September 2019. This presentation discusses the course of treatment, including chelation, a “crop-bra”, and placement of a stomach tube.