Branta Issues > Issue №3 (2000)

Small shot as a factor of lead-poisoning of wetlands and waterfowl of the Danube Biosphere Reserve.

Zmud M.E.

Stomach contents of 122 individuals of 9 species were analyzed. 8.2% of them contained lead small shot, amounting from 1 to 11 pieces. Among other species, Mallards seemed to be the most poisoned, as 20% their stomachs (n=35) contained shots. They were also found in the stomachs of Teal, Garganey and Pochard. Pieces of lead are swallowed by the ducks from the bottom as gastroliths. Annually, as small shots, 8 tons of lead get into the wetlands of the Danube Biosphere Reserve.