Lead Harms Loons

It’s time to make the switch to lead-free tackle.

 

Each year, lead poisoning causes the deaths of loons, eagles, herons and other species.

Lead from lead fishing tackle poses a significant risk to birds that prey on fish, and lead ammunition to birds that scavenge deceased animals.

The number one way that loons ingest lead jigs and sinkers is when they eat a fish that has broken a line and has lead tackle in its mouth or stomach.

Sometimes loons swallow lead sinkers when they purposely swallow pebbles and small stones to help aid in digestion. A lost or discarded sinker can easily be mistaken for another pebble.

 

Even a few deaths each year from lead poisoning harms the Adirondack loon population.

Loons are long-lived birds that typically do not breed until they are at least 6 years old. Successful pairs only have one or two chicks, and many young loons don’t survive their first year. The death of one adult breeding loon, therefore, has a trickle down effect on the overall population that may not be truly felt for several years.

 

Lead tackle of a half-ounce or less is illegal to sell in New York State.

We believe this is not enough.

A single half-ounce lead sinker can kill an adult loon in two to four weeks.

Because of the size of fish that loons can swallow, they are capable to ingesting lead tackle up to 2.5 inches in size. Painted jigs are still dangerous to loons - the paint is easily broken down in the gizzard, exposing the lead weight.

 
 

There are lead-free alternatives.

Most companies produce lead-free tackle options. Some companies have committed to producing only lead-free tackle. Telling tackle shop owners and employees that you want to purchase lead-free tackle is a way to encourage them to supply more lead-free options from companies committed to producing safer tackle for people and wildlife.

 

Get Involved - Make a Difference

  • Buy and use lead-free tackle.

  • Turn in old lead tackle to the Adirondack Loon Center in Saranac Lake, NY. Live far away in the Adirondack Park? Email us to arrange a pick-up.

  • Tell others about the threats of lead to loons and other wildlife. Encourage them to make the switch to lead-free fishing tackle.

  • Ask your local tackle shops and retailers to stock lead-free options.

  • Become a Tackle Box Ambassador and learn how to help your neighbors and community members make the switch to lead-free tackle.

  • Are you a teacher or summer camp counselor? Email us to schedule a kids’ program where attendees ages 5-13 receive a free lead-free tackle box starter kit!