Ace the Wisconsin Hunter's Safety Test 2026 – Lock and Load Your Skills!

Lead ammunition poses a significant risk to wildlife, particularly scavenger species that consume the remains of game animals shot with lead bullets. When a lead projectile enters an animal, fragments of lead can remain in the carcass. Scavengers, such as eagles, ravens, and other birds, may ingest these fragments while feeding on the remains.

Lead poisoning in these birds can occur when the lead particles leach into their system, causing serious health issues or even death. This has been a major conservation concern, as many species of scavenging birds have been adversely affected by ingesting lead from carcasses. The ingestion of lead affects their neurological and organ function, leading to impaired movement and coordination, which ultimately affects their survival.

Understanding this impact is crucial for ethical hunting practices and wildlife conservation, prompting discussions about alternative ammunition options that are less harmful to the environment and wildlife health.