Dietary Effects on Lead Uptake and Trace Element Distribution in Mallard Ducks Dosed with Lead Shot

摘要

Thirty-two mallard ducks were placed on either of two experimental diets and fed 0, 1, 3, and 6 No. 4 lead pellets. Trace element concentrations in the liver, kidney, muscle and bone were determined. The turkey-mash diet was high in calcium, phosphorus, and protein while the henscratch diet was low in these and other constitutents. Ducks on the henscratch diet and administered 1, 3, and 6 lead pellets lost significant amounts of weight, accumulated lead in the liver, kidney, and bone, and died. The distribution of trace elements such as calcium and iron were altered in the organs of ducks on the henscratch diet. Ducks on the turkey-mash diet and administered the same lead doses were protected against toxic effects of lead and did not lose significant amounts of weight. On the basis of these data and others in the literature, recommendations are made to supplement grains usually fed to wintering waterfowl with 1 to 2% calcium, which is the same as in the turkey-mash diet. Basic reasons for the sensitivity of wintering waterfowl to lead toxicity from spent lead shot are discussed. (ERA citation 04:034987)