As few as how many lead pellets can be lethal to waterfowl when ingested?

• A. Dozens must be ingested
• B. Pellets are harmless
• C. Only in waterfowl older than 5 years
• D. As few as one or two lead pellets can be lethal to a duck, goose, loon or swan when ingested

Answer: (D)

Lead is highly toxic to waterfowl, so even a tiny amount can be deadly. When a duck, goose, loon, or swan swallows a lead pellet, lead dissolves and enters the bloodstream, building up in tissues and disrupting critical processes like blood formation and nervous system function. This means a single pellet can push the bird’s lead burden into a lethal range, especially in smaller species or stressed individuals. Clinically, affected birds may appear weak, reluctant to move, or unsteady, and without prompt chelation therapy and supportive care, they may deteriorate quickly. This is why non-toxic ammunition is important for hunting and why rehabilitation work treats even small lead exposures as serious. The other choices overstate the safety or require multiple pellets, which isn’t supported by how responsive—or deadly—lead poisoning can be in waterfowl.