Which characteristic of pesticides may lead to increased risks to wildlife?

Long persistence in the environment is a characteristic of pesticides that can lead to increased risks to wildlife. When pesticides remain active in the environment for extended periods, they can accumulate in the soil, water, and organisms, posing a sustained threat to non-target species. Wildlife may be exposed to these residues through various pathways, such as ingestion of contaminated food or water, or through direct contact with treated surfaces. Over time, the bioaccumulation of such pesticides can negatively impact wildlife populations, leading to various ecological consequences.

In contrast, rapid degradation and short half-life characteristics typically result in lower environmental residues, reducing the risk to wildlife. Low toxicity levels suggest that a substance is less harmful, which would also correlate to a reduced risk. Thus, the long persistence of certain pesticides poses a significant concern due to their potential to linger in the ecosystem and continue to affect wildlife populations adversely.