State Bans Lead in Condor Range

The area where lead shot can’t be used includes much of central and southern California, but lead exposure continues to threaten wildlife and humans elsewhere.

California condor habitat just got better protection as Governor Schwarzenegger signed a bill that bans use of lead shot by big game hunters anywhere in the endangered bird's range in California.

That’s a good thing, but not good enough.

A nationwide ban on all lead hunting and fishing gear is needed to protect wildlife and humans. Few people realize that humans risk exposure from eating wildfowl, venison, boar and other big game shot with lead. Wasted lead shot adds to soil and groundwater contamination as well.

A ban on lead shot for hunting waterfowl has been in effect nationwide since 1991. But until recently hunters fought against an equivalent ban for big game hunting, concerned about cost and lack of availability of alternative bullets. And lead fishing tackle and sinkers continue to be used, ending up in waterways throughout the US.

The Center for Biological Diversity has launched a campaign to Get the Lead Out. While the campaign is focused on the danger to California condors and other wildlife, it reminds people that they are at risk as well. When so much is being done to promote awareness of lead’s effects on children, it is criminal to allow more lead to be spread into the environment.

Support the Get the Lead Out campaign. It is important for all species, even humans.