Wild Barn Owl Rodenticide Poisoning

Secondary poisoning from rodenticides is a major cause of barn owl mortality in the UK, creating serious welfare and conservation concerns.

Key Facts

Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) are detected in the livers of most barn owls tested
SGARs including brodifacoum and bromadiolone accumulate in prey species eaten by barn owls
SGAR poisoning causes internal haemorrhaging, weakness and prolonged suffering before death
A 2020 UK study found SGARs in 83% of barn owls examined after death
Barn owls can consume 4-6 rodents per day, accumulating rodenticide doses over time
Stewardship schemes restrict SGAR use to certified operators and certain situations
First-generation anticoagulants and physical traps are lower-risk alternatives in many situations
Barn owl population recovery is hindered by ongoing rodenticide exposure

Welfare Considerations

Secondary rodenticide poisoning causes a prolonged and painful death in barn owls. Anticoagulant poisoning impairs blood clotting, leading to internal bleeding, weakness and eventual death over days. The welfare harm is significant and occurs at population scale given the high prevalence of SGAR detection. Barn owls that survive sublethal exposure may have impaired hunting ability and immune function. Reducing SGAR use and improving stewardship compliance are critical welfare as well as conservation priorities.

What You Can Do

Use snap traps or other physical rodent control methods instead of rodenticides where possible
If rodenticides are necessary, use first-generation products in bait stations with strict access control
Never use SGARs in buildings used by or near barn owl nest sites
Report barn owls found dead or injured to the Barn Owl Trust or RSPCA
Install barn owl nest boxes to support populations while advocating for rodenticide reform