Wildlife

Barn Owl Rodenticide Secondary Poisoning

Barn owls are killed in large numbers by secondary poisoning from rodenticides used to control mice and rats on farms and in homes.

Key Facts

Over 90% of barn owls tested in UK studies carry rodenticide residues
Second-generation anticoagulants cause internal bleeding and slow death over days
Barn owls consume large numbers of rodents and bioaccumulate toxins
Alternative rodent control methods including barn owl boxes are highly effective
Rodenticide restrictions have reduced but not eliminated barn owl poisoning

Welfare Considerations

Secondary rodenticide poisoning causes prolonged suffering as anticoagulants deplete clotting factors over days. Affected owls become weak, disorientated, and ultimately die from hemorrhage. Installing barn owl nest boxes and eliminating rodenticide use provides rodent control while protecting owls.

What You Can Do

Install barn owl nest boxes to encourage natural rodent control
Eliminate rodenticide use on properties where owls are present
Support bans on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides
Choose pest control companies using non-rodenticide methods
Report dead or dying raptors to wildlife authorities for toxicology testing