They are the living proof that actions to control toxic substances can help restore endangered species. They are the living proof that strong environmental laws benefit nature. The falcons are making a comeback because DDT was banned and because Canadians gave the falcons a fair chance to survive. Across Canada, up to 6 million birds eat spent lead shot gun pellets each year. Ducks, geese and swans mistake lead pellets for food.
Poisoning occurs after swallowing just a few pellets.
The scientists in my department have concluded that at least a quarter of a million waterfowl are killed annually from eating lead. In turn, bald eagles and other predators die from eating crippled or dead waterfowl. New Environment Canada information on 9,000 ducks from across the country shows that there are high lead levels in waterfowl in all regions of Canada. The time has come to move to alternatives to lead shot. The time has come to set the date for ending the use of lead shot for hunting waterfowl throughout the country.