DEC expands non-lead study for eagle conservation

By Jennifer Patterson

A statewide multi-year cooperative study of how increased use of non-lead ammunition for deer hunting can improve the survival of bald and golden eagles has been expanded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Hunters throughout New York are now eligible for a rebate up to $60 for the purchase of non-lead ammunition for use during the 2024-2025 deer hunting seasons.

While the bald eagle population is doing well in New York, research has shown that lead-related mortality has slowed population growth. Eagles can ingest lead bullet fragments when scavenging the remains left behind after a hunter field dresses a deer.

“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,” said DEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. “By using non-lead ammo, hunters can help ensure scavenging animals like eagles are not unintentionally exposed to toxic lead fragments from bullets.”

The DEC is partnering with the New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at Cornell University, the U.S. Geological Survey, and Conservation Science Global to determine the reduction in bald and golden eagle deaths that can be achieved from increased use of non-lead ammunition for deer hunting.

To help recruit hunters to participate in the study, the DEC’s research partners will be offering rebates of up to $60 for the purchase of one box of factory loaded non-lead ammunition bullets, and participation in pre- and post-hunt surveys.

Initially available for hunting in specific Wildlife Management Units (WMUs), the study is expanding statewide to include all WMUs where a firearm can be used to hunt deer. Participation in the rebate program is voluntary and will be available to all firearm deer hunters in New York.

“DEC appreciates deer hunters who have volunteered to be part of this study,” Mahar said, “and encourages others to participate during the upcoming hunting season.”

The rebate program is expected to continue for the 2025 and 2026 hunting seasons.

For information, go to https://huntersforeagleconservation.org/new-york/.