Intentional and accidental poisoning kills millions of wild animals each year. From raptor poisoning on grouse moors to carbofuran use in Africa, poisoning causes prolonged and distressing deaths.
Poisoning deaths are typically prolonged and painful. Organophosphate poisoning causes seizures and respiratory failure over hours. Anti-coagulant poisoning causes internal haemorrhage over days. Lead toxicity causes neurological damage and progressive organ failure. Vultures and eagles poisoned while feeding on carcasses die in large numbers from rapid poisoning agents intended for poachers. These welfare harms are largely preventable through enforcement of pesticide regulations and transition to non-toxic alternatives.