Aim High with the Maryland Hunter Safety Test 2026 – Lock and Load Your Skills!

For waterfowl hunting, the use of lead pellets is prohibited due to environmental and wildlife conservation concerns. Lead shot poses a significant risk to waterfowl and other wildlife that may ingest the pellets or be exposed to lead contaminants in their habitat. The ingestion of lead can lead to lead poisoning, which is harmful and often fatal to birds.

In response to the recognized dangers of lead ammunition, regulations were established to protect both the environment and the animals that inhabit those ecosystems. As a result, hunters are required to use non-toxic alternatives, such as steel, tungsten, or other approved materials, when hunting waterfowl. This prohibition encourages responsible hunting practices that are safe for wildlife and help maintain healthy ecosystems.