DEC to expand statewide study on non-lead ammo for deer hunting and correlation to Eagle survival

The New York State DEC is expanding statewide the multi-year cooperative study of how increased use of non-lead ammunition for deer hunting can improve the survival of bald and golden eagles.

Hunters statewide are now eligible for a rebate up to $60 for the purchase of non-lead ammunition for use during the 2024-25 deer hunting seasons.

“Hunters are critical partners in promoting sustainable wildlife management practices across North America, including ongoing efforts to improve golden and bald eagle populations in New York State,” Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said.

“By using non-lead ammo, hunters can help ensure scavenging animals like eagles are not unintentionally exposed to toxic lead fragments from bullets. DEC appreciates deer hunters who have volunteered to be part of this study and encourages others to participate during the upcoming hunting season.”

According to DEC officials, Eagles can incidentally ingest lead bullet fragments when scavenging the remains left behind after a hunter field dresses a deer.

The golden eagle population is relatively stable in the eastern United States, although a multitude of human-caused threats still exist, the DEC says.

While the bald eagle population continues to recover in New York, research has shown that lead-related mortality slows population growth.

The newly expanded study aims to determine whether this source of mortality can be reduced by increasing the proportion of hunters using non-lead ammunition.

NYS DEC image.