Most of the issues surrounding lead weights and shot has to do with the ingestion of the lead. Ducks, geese, swans, and other birds regularly take up small stones and pebbles when eating. These congregate in their digestive tract along with lead shot, and that is how these birds die from lead poisoning.

Allthough it would be quite interesting to see a cormorant ingest a 20 oz lead ball, USFWS's primary concern is with the use of splitshot type weights of 1 oz or less, but that won't stop some of the greenies there from trying to ban all lead.

I have used some of those no-lead weights, and they did work just fine, but I am uncertain how a 4 oz pyramid weight would be detrimental to the wildlife in the area, as lead is a relatively stable metal, unlike steel or copper. That said, if anyone has more info, I would be happy to learn.


Andy