Lead found in vultures matters to hunting sector (AGRIMONITOR)
Essential part of ecosystem
Studies have confirmed the presence of lead fragments in vultures in Namibia raising concerns within conservation circles.
If vultures are found with lead in their systems, and hunting is identified as a likely source, it casts doubt on Namibia's hunting sector's broader claim of being responsible conservationists.This is according to the Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA), which said that studies confirming the presence of lead fragments in vultures in Namibia have raised concerns within conservation circles.
NAPHA said that while the levels detected are not yet deemed fatal in most cases, the very presence of lead traces has already triggered critical questions from conservation partners and the public.
“As the hunting community, we cannot ignore this issue, nor should we,” said NAPHA.
The hunting association pointed out that vultures are not just scavengers, but that they are an essential part of the ecosystem.
“They clean up carcasses, reduce the spread of diseases and serve as key indicators of environmental health.”
According to NAPHA, when vultures ingest lead, often from unrecovered gut piles or wounded game left in the veld, it reflects broader environmental practices, some of which point directly to hunting.
“Even beyond the veld, the risks of lead exposure extend into our own camps and homes.”
NAPHA said that off-cuts of meat, particularly around wound channels where lead fragments may remain, are often fed to dogs.
“ If we do not take care in removing affected areas, our dogs, animals we rely on and care for may also be exposed to harmful levels of lead over time.”
NAPHA said that whether or not they personally contributed to a specific case, the use of lead ammunition places the entire community under scrutiny.
It said that as a community that prides itself on conservation through sustainable use, they must show that they take scientific findings seriously, even when they raise uncomfortable truths.
“We must be proactive, not defensive. By addressing concerns such as these head-on, we reaffirm our commitment to ethical hunting and our respect for the wildlife that surrounds our activities, including those species we do not hunt.”
Furthermore, NAPHA said that by engaging with researchers, conservation NGOs, and policy makers on this matter, they help ensure that any measures taken are practical, evidence-based, and inclusive of the realities of the field.
“How we respond now will influence not only future regulations, but also public trust. Let us ensure that our actions reflect the professionalism, responsibility, and stewardship we stand for, not only for the wildlife we manage, but also for our own animals and future generations.”
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