Wildlife Conservation

Barn Owl Rodenticide Poisoning and Population Welfare

Secondary rodenticide poisoning is killing barn owls across Europe and North America as these raptors consume poisoned rodents, undermining natural pest control.

Key Facts

Studies show rodenticide residues in 90%+ of barn owls tested in UK and US surveys
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) persist in prey and accumulate in predators
Barn owl populations have declined 70% in the UK since the 1930s, with rodenticides a key factor
A single farm using SGARs can reduce local owl populations through both direct and secondary poisoning
Barn owls naturally control rodent populations - one pair can catch 1,000-4,000 voles annually

Welfare Considerations

Barn owls dying from anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning suffer internal hemorrhage that can take days to cause death, during which the bird shows weakness, inability to fly, and progressive deterioration. Secondary poisoning is an insidious pathway - owls have no direct contact with poison but accumulate lethal doses through their diet. Transitioning to first-generation rodenticides or non-toxic alternatives protects owls while maintaining rodent control.

What You Can Do

Never use second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difethialone)
Install barn owl nest boxes to support local populations and natural rodent control
Report barn owls for toxicological testing if found dead to contribute to monitoring data
Advocate for restrictions on SGARs to professional pest controllers only