anglers

Wildlife rescuers in Carteret County, North Carolina, are reporting a sharp rise in injuries to coastal animals caused by discarded fishing line. Rescuers say entangled birds and other wildlife are arriving in growing numbers, prompting warnings to anglers to dispose of line properly and calls for greater awareness along the coast.

Health officials in southwest Louisiana are warning anglers to limit how much fish they eat from Lake Arthur and the Mermentau River after mercury was detected in the waterways. The advisory affects local fishermen and their families, who are being urged to reduce consumption of caught fish while testing continues. The warning raises concerns about long-term exposure and the health of the river system.

Wildlife rescuers are warning that discarded fishing line and hooks can seriously injure birds, which can become tangled or swallow the debris, causing deep wounds, restricted movement, or death. Rescuers urge anglers to dispose of fishing gear properly and to report any birds that appear injured or entangled so they can be treated.