Invertebrates

Invertebrate Welfare in Pest Control

Pest control methods targeting invertebrates raise questions about welfare that require evidence-based approaches to minimize suffering.

Key Facts

Neonicotinoid pesticides cause disorientation and death in non-target invertebrates
Rodenticide anticoagulants cause slow death over days and secondarily poison raptors
Glue traps cause prolonged suffering in trapped insects and vertebrates
Integrated pest management reduces pesticide use and minimizes non-target effects

Welfare Considerations

Pest control methods vary enormously in the suffering they cause. Anticoagulant rodenticides cause days of internal hemorrhage before death, and secondary poisoning kills owls and other predators. Glue traps trap insects and small animals in prolonged distress. Insecticides often kill non-target insects without welfare consideration. More discriminate methods significantly reduce suffering.

What You Can Do

Avoid glue traps in home pest control
Choose humane rodent control methods including snap traps
Adopt integrated pest management to reduce chemical use
Never use neonicotinoid pesticides in gardens