The loon was out of the water but not out of the woods. X-rays at REGI revealed it had swallowed a large sinker, lodged high in the digestive tract. It was basically touch-and-go whether the bird would eventually pass the lead from its system.
I wish all anglers could see this x-ray and understand how important it is to use non-lead or lead-alternative fishing tackle, Gibson said. But within days, the loon had responded favorably.
Now it was time for the next leg of the trip to begin. Gibson was treating two immature loons for lead poisoning and other health concerns. One had been found in the Wausau area while the other was rescued by Harold Igl of rural Antigo, who discovered the bird floundering in one of his farm fields.

On Dec. 3, all three loons were well enough to hitch a ride south, aboard a private plane, bound for a wildlife refuge on the Texas-Louisiana coast.
Nothing is for certain as far as their success in the wild goes, Gibson said. But we have given them all a second change, thanks to the work of concerned citizens and organizations such as the Pickerel Fire Department. REGI did it all with volunteer help and funded through donations. It receives no state or federal assistance.
While common in the northwards, with perhaps 1,000 to 2,000 scattered across the region, Gibson said the birds are not seen as often on their winter nesting grounds on the Gulf Coast.
They see them, but it is always exciting when they do, she said, suggesting that the loon's very appearance, and its ethereal call have made it a favorite with nature-lovers. Probably, next to the eagle, they are the most loved birds in the world.