Barn Owl Rodenticide Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are accumulating in barn owls and other raptors, causing internal bleeding and death.

Key Facts

Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are routinely found in barn owl carcasses across the UK
Studies show over 80% of barn owls tested contain measurable rodenticide residues
SGARs cause internal bleeding and death through anticoagulant effects
Barn owls bioaccumulate rodenticides by eating contaminated prey including rats and mice
The UK Government has consulted on restricting SGAR availability to professional use only
Alternative rodent control including habitat management and exclusion can reduce rodenticide need
Brodifacoum and difenacoum are among the most frequently detected SGARs in UK wildlife

Welfare Considerations

Rodenticide secondary poisoning of barn owls causes a painful death through internal haemorrhage and is largely preventable. The use of SGARs in agriculture and buildings where barn owls hunt is the primary exposure route. Restricting SGAR availability to trained professionals and promoting integrated pest management would significantly reduce barn owl rodenticide mortality. This is one of the most tractable preventable welfare problems in UK bird conservation.

What You Can Do

Never use second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in the garden or outdoors
If rodent control is needed, use first-generation rodenticides only with bait stations or traps
Advocate for restrictions on amateur SGAR use through consultation responses
Install barn owl boxes to support populations while working on rodenticide reduction