A group of conservationists sued the federal government Thursday to force regulation of lead ammunition -- the top killer of endangered California Condors.
The group contends lead poisoning from ammunition frequently kills not only condors but eagles, swans, loons and other birds that feed on dead animals in the wild.
"We’ve put a lot of effort as a society into removing toxic lead from gasoline, paint, any products that exposes humans to lead poisoning," said Jeff Miller, a spokesman for the Center for Biological Diversity. "Unfortunately we still allow lead ammunition that frequently poisons and kills wildlife."
The EPA declined to comment, citing pending litigation. But agency officials said in April the government does not have the authority under the Toxic Substances Control Act to control lead ammunition. Miller said the agency is mistaken, and the groups now want a judge to decide.
