A bird with lead poisoning often acts strangely. Its wingtips droop, and often it cannot fly or walk. Its digestive system breaks down, and it loses weight. As the bird becomes weaker, it can be easily captured by enemies. Even when the signs of lead poisoning are not obvious, the bird may still have trouble feeding, mating, nesting, and caring for its young.
Water birds can die by eating just one lead sinker or jig.
In eastern North America, up to half of all Common Loons found dead have died from eating a lead sinker or jig. The U.S. is currently planning a similar ban. Canada has issued its own new fishing regulations to help control this problem. Since the spring of 1997, it has been illegal to use lead fishing sinkers or jigs in Canada's national parks. You are not allowed to have lead fishing sinkers or jigs in your possession while you are fishing in these areas.