What is a potential impact pests can have on fish and wildlife?

What is a potential impact pests can have on fish and wildlife?

• A. Direct and immediate harm
• B. Pests never affect wildlife
• C. No effect
• D. Only beneficial effects

Answer: (A)

Pesticides can cause direct and immediate harm to fish and wildlife when non-target species are exposed. Spray drift, runoff into streams and ponds, or residues on treated crops can expose birds, mammals, and aquatic life. This exposure can lead to rapid poisoning or death, and even when it isn’t lethal right away, it can cause acute stress, impaired feeding, or behavioral changes that degrade survival chances. Because wildlife can encounter these chemicals directly or through contaminated food or water, direct harm is a realistic and important potential impact.