You don’t have to shoot an eagle to severely injure it.

But there are other options you can choose to protect our nation’s bird.

Robyn Graboski, Executive Director of Centre Wildlife Care, said within a few months she’s taken in three eagles that were infected.

“If those bald eagles did not come to us when they did, they would be dead,” Graboski said.

The common symptoms are extreme weakness, difficulty breathing, and even death.

Unfortunately, one of the three at Centre Wildlife Care didn’t make it.

“The bottom line is this is preventable,” Graboski said.

With a blood lead machine, Graboski is able to determine what’s causing their distress.

“We can test a sample immediately and know whether or not they’re suffering from lead toxicity,” Graboski said.

But the infection wasn’t intentionally given to them.

Rather, the contamination likely spread from another animal shot by a lead bullet.

Mike Steingraber, a Conservation Officer for the PA Game Commission, said there are alternative ammunition options for hunters.

Steingraber said the PA Game Commission has worked hard to restore the bald eagle population in the state.

And simply choosing copper bullets could save an innocent life.

“It’s our country’s symbol, our country’s bird. You know, it can have a profound effect on a lot of people,” Steingraber said.

“Hunters are our first conservationists. I’m sure when they see this, this will help make a difference,” Graboski said.

According to an organization called  “Hunting with No Lead,” hunters can be smart shoppers and find non-lead bullets at the same price as lead options.