Which statement describes the potential impact of improper pesticide application on wildlife?

• A. Immediate and direct harm
• B. Wildlife is always protected
• C. No risk
• D. Pest management eliminates wildlife risk

Answer: (A)

Improper pesticide application creates opportunities for wildlife to be exposed to toxic substances, leading to immediate and direct harm. Pesticides can drift beyond the target area, contaminate water sources, or leave residues on plants that wildlife feed on, so animals may encounter lethal doses right away or suffer acute effects such as impaired movement, coordination, or feeding. Weather, improper mixing, incorrect application rates, and inappropriate timing all increase the likelihood of exposure for non-target species, including birds, small mammals, fish, and beneficial insects. Because exposure can occur directly from the application process or from contaminated resources, harm to wildlife is a real and immediate risk. Statements that claim no risk, that wildlife is always protected, or that pest management eliminates wildlife risk don’t reflect how misapplication can create unintended consequences for non-target organisms.