Lead bullets were banned in Estonian wetlands in 2023. However, they are still used in hunting. Lead is dangerous. It harms animals and humans.
Lead bullets are dangerous for birds. Birds can get poisoned. About 150 eagles die annually in Estonia due to lead.
A veterinarian says that lead-free bullets would help save eagles. Lead is also harmful to humans. It causes cognitive difficulties.
Hunters know there is a problem with lead. There are few alternative bullets. Only 10% of bullets made in Europe are lead-free.
The European Commission is discussing a ban on lead bullets. They want the change within 18 months.