Many species of wildlife are affected by lead toxicity, however it’s commonest in raptors, scavengers, and waterbirds. In raptors or predatory birds, bioaccumulation via ingestion of prey species is problematic. Scavenger species, just like the California condor, face the identical situation with bioaccumulation whereas consuming carrion. Species just like the Bald eagle and vulture species have extremely acidic stomachs, making them significantly vulnerable to steer toxicity because of lead being damaged down extra readily of their abdomen. A single lead sinker or jig is poisonous sufficient to kill a loon when ingested.
The Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Affiliation helps the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to take away lead hazards on refuges via its Station-Particular Searching and Sport Fishing Laws proposed rule. The Nationwide Wildlife Refuge Affiliation acknowledges the necessity for an adjustment interval so mandatory administrative and sensible modifications might be made and carried out on these refuges; consequently, we urge that the four-year interval proposed for phasing out the usage of lead be shortened to eighteen months, which might enable for one full looking season to teach hunters earlier than the ultimate change is made. The proposed rule, though solely utilized to acres of recent lands opened to looking, is a crucial first step in decreasing the harm brought on by lead ammunition and sort out on nationwide wildlife refuges throughout the nation.