What is a potential consequence of a raptor ingesting lead shot through its prey?

The ingestion of lead shot poses a significant risk to raptors and can potentially be fatal. When raptors eat prey that has ingested lead shot, they can absorb the toxic lead into their bodies. Lead poisoning can cause severe health issues, including neurological problems, organ damage, and ultimately death.

Although lead shot does not improve any aspect of a raptor's physiology or improve hunting instincts, and while some might think it could have no noticeable effect, the reality is that even small amounts of lead can accumulate to lethal levels over time. Therefore, the most direct and impactful consequence of ingesting lead shot through prey is the risk of death for the raptor, making the possibility of it killing the bird very real and concerning.

Options suggesting improvements to instincts or claiming that there is no effect completely overlook the serious health ramifications associated with lead ingestion, while the notion of feather deformities, although it can be a consequence of other toxins or nutritional deficiencies, is not the most direct or fatal outcome of lead shot ingestion itself.