The EPA has denied a petition by five environmental groups to ban lead ammunition, saying it was not within the agencies jurisdiction. The petition was aimed at protecting wildlife from ingesting the toxic substance. Birds such as bald eagles and the endangered Californian Condor are especially at risk as they scavenge on carcasses shot and contaminated with lead fragments. Other animals may eat the pellets, mistaking them for food or grit.

The American Bird Conservancy has estimated that 10-20 million animals die from lead poisoning each year. “The EPA had ample evidence that lead bullets and shot have a devastating effect on America’s wildlife, yet has refused to do anything about it. It’s disappointing to see this country’s top environmental agency simply walk away from the preventable poisoning of birds and other wildlife,” said Darin Schroeder, Vice President for Conservation Advocacy at American Bird Conservancy.

The EPA is still reviewing another part of the petition to ban lead fishing sinkers.

By Robin Lawless


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