Tulare Lake, once the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, has been dry for over 80 years. But its legacy of contamination remains. The lakebed is now a vast expanse of alkaline dust and salt flats, containing high levels of selenium, arsenic and other toxic elements. These contaminants can be harmful to wildlife, and they can also pose a health risk to humans who come into contact with them.

In addition to the contaminants, the lakebed is also home to a variety of wildlife, including egrets, herons and other water birds. These birds feed on the insects and other small animals that live in the lakebed, and they can also be exposed to the contaminants.

The future of Tulare Lake is uncertain. There are plans to restore the lake, but these plans are controversial and have not yet been implemented. In the meantime, the lakebed remains a contaminated wasteland, and it is a reminder of the environmental damage that can be caused by human activity.

Here are some of the specific contaminants that have been found in Tulare Lake:

* Selenium: Selenium is a toxic element that can cause a variety of health problems, including hair loss, skin lesions, and nervous system damage. Selenium can also be fatal if ingested in large doses.

* Arsenic: Arsenic is a known carcinogen that can cause a variety of health problems, including cancer, skin lesions, and gastrointestinal problems.

* Chromium: Chromium is a toxic metal that can cause a variety of health problems, including lung damage, skin irritation, and allergic reactions.

* Lead: Lead is a toxic metal that can cause a variety of health problems, including brain damage, learning disabilities, and kidney damage.

* Mercury: Mercury is a toxic metal that can cause a variety of health problems, including neurological damage, kidney damage, and reproductive problems.

These are just some of the contaminants that have been found in Tulare Lake. The presence of these contaminants poses a serious health risk to wildlife and humans who come into contact with them.