What is a major consequence of poisoning due to ingestion of lead shot?

Lead shot ingestion can have severe and often fatal consequences for raptors. When these birds consume prey that has been shot with lead ammunition, they can ingest fragments of lead that are harmful to their health. This type of poisoning affects the birds' neurological, renal, and hematological systems, leading to a wide range of symptoms including weakness, anemia, and potentially death.

Raptors, being at the top of the food chain, are particularly vulnerable as they often feed on animals that have been killed or injured by lead shot. The consumption of lead significantly diminishes their chances of survival due to its toxic effects, which is why it's critical to address the use of lead in ammunition to protect these birds. This consequence is applicable across various species of raptors, not limited to certain types or those without a crop, making the threat of lead shot ingestion a significant concern in wildlife conservation and management efforts.