
Several species of birds and mammals can be affected.
Eagles and waterfowl are the animals most commonly affected by lead ingestion.
Lead poisoning has also been noted in small mammals, likely from the ingestion of lead contaminated prey.
Symptoms of lead poisoning may include weakness, drooping wings, inability to fly, and green, watery diarrhea.
At very high levels, lead poisoning can be fatal.
Symptoms can vary, as almost every organ in the body can be affected. High levels can cause slowed neural and mental development in young children.
Use non-lead alternatives for hunting ammunition and fishing tackle.
No. Lead is toxic to pets.
Lead is a metal that has no beneficial properties in the body or body functions. The use of lead in ammunition for upland hunting, shooting sports, and in fishing tackle is widespread.
The most significant hazard to wildlife is through direct ingestion of spent ammunition or lost fishing tackle, or through consumption of prey containing lead shot, bullets, or fragments.