Wild Barn Owl Rodenticide Secondary Poisoning

Secondary poisoning from rodenticides is a major threat to barn owl populations across the UK and Europe.

Key Facts

Barn owls are particularly vulnerable to secondary rodenticide poisoning due to their diet of small mammals
Studies show 85% or more of barn owls tested in the UK carry rodenticide residues
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides persist in prey animals and accumulate in predators
Barn owls showing signs of poisoning may appear disorientated or fail to fly
The Rodenticide Stewardship Regime aims to reduce predator exposure through responsible use
Alternatives to rodenticides include proofing buildings, snap traps, and barn owl nest box provision

Welfare Considerations

Rodenticide poisoning causes prolonged and painful death through internal bleeding and neurological effects. The scale of barn owl exposure represents a widespread welfare crisis in UK farmland birds. Reducing agricultural and domestic rodenticide use is one of the highest-impact actions to improve barn owl welfare.

What You Can Do

Avoid using second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides and use safer alternatives
Install barn owl nest boxes on your farm or property to support barn owl populations
Use physical rodent control methods such as proofing and snap traps
Report dead or dying barn owls to the Barn Owl Trust for monitoring purposes
Support Barn Owl Trust campaigns for stronger rodenticide regulation