Rodenticides and Non-Target Wildlife Welfare

Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) cause prolonged death in target rodents and poison birds of prey and other non-target species through the food chain.

Key Facts

SGARs are found in over 90% of barn owls tested in the UK
They prevent blood clotting, causing slow death from internal bleeding over days
Red kites, buzzards, polecats, and foxes are also commonly found to have SGAR residues
UK government implemented a stewardship scheme in 2016 to reduce non-target impact
Rodenticides kill target rodents slowly and painfully - acute toxicants act faster

Welfare Considerations

Second-generation rodenticides cause suffering to target and non-target species alike. Target rodents experience days of internal bleeding before death. Barn owls and other raptors consuming poisoned rodents accumulate rodenticide in their livers, impairing blood clotting and causing weakness, disorientation, and secondary injury or predation before death. Even sub-lethal doses affect immune function and behaviour. The UK stewardship scheme has reduced but not eliminated the problem. Integrated pest management approaches that minimise rodenticide use protect non-target species while controlling rodent populations.

What You Can Do

Use non-rodenticide pest control methods where possible - trapping, exclusion, habitat management
If rodenticides are necessary, use first-generation anticoagulants rather than SGARs
Follow rodenticide stewardship guidance on placement and quantities
Support CRRU (Campaign for Responsible Rodenticide Use) standards
Report found raptors for toxicology testing through RSPCA or local wildlife trusts