Raptor Welfare and Poison Risks | Animal Welfare Hub

Raptors face serious welfare threats from secondary poisoning through their prey, particularly from rodenticides and lead ammunition.

Key Facts

Secondary rodenticide poisoning kills thousands of raptors annually in many countries
Lead poisoning from ingesting carcasses shot with lead ammunition affects eagles, kites, and vultures
Both conditions cause prolonged suffering before death and have been well documented by wildlife vets
Non-lead ammunition and reduced rodenticide use are effective mitigation measures

Welfare Considerations

Secondary poisoning of raptors represents both a welfare crisis and a conservation concern. Red kites that consume rat carcasses killed by second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides suffer internal bleeding over days to weeks before dying. Eagles and vultures that ingest lead fragments from carcasses of shot game animals develop neurological symptoms, weakness, and eventual death from lead toxicosis. Both conditions cause significant suffering that is entirely preventable through the adoption of alternatives. Restrictions on second-generation rodenticides and lead ammunition are among the most effective raptor welfare measures available.

What You Can Do

Use non-lead ammunition if you hunt, or advocate for its adoption among hunting communities
Avoid second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides; use alternative pest control methods
Report sick or dead raptors to wildlife crime police or wildlife rescue organizations
Support legislative bans on lead ammunition in areas with significant raptor populations