This is a subgroup of the National Wildlife Poisoning Prevention Working Group.
Lead poisoning among humans and scavenging wildlife, both avian (vultures and ground-hornbills), and mammals (leopards and hyaena) is a growing concern, with the primary source of lead being spent ammunition left in carcasses after hunting, harvesting, culling, or predator control activities, which can have a detrimental effect on whoever is ingesting meat from a carcass shot using lead ammunition.
Substantial evidence in international scientific literature illustrates the consequences of lead exposure in scavengers, particularly vultures and condors. Additionally, there is ample information on lead’s impact on vulture and ground-hornbill populations in southern Africa, however, most people are unaware of the effects of lead on themselves, their children and our wildlife.
The LTT therefore aims to explore potential strategies for addressing the unregulated use of lead, create awareness around the use and effects of lead, as well as develop frameworks and regulations to reduce the presence of lead in the environment and meat that humans consume.
In summary, the LTT is committed to working constructively with all role players to ensure that wildlife is not harmed by exposure to lead.