Wildlife

Barn Owl Rodenticide Exposure and Population Welfare

Barn owls are particularly vulnerable to secondary rodenticide poisoning because they feed heavily on small mammals that accumulate toxic compounds.

Key Facts

Over 90% of barn owls tested in some UK surveys carried detectable rodenticide residues
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides persist in prey animals and accumulate in predators
Poisoned barn owls show impaired coordination, bleeding, and death
Barn owl populations are also impacted by road collisions and nest site loss

Welfare Considerations

Rodenticide poisoning causes prolonged internal bleeding and neurological deterioration before death. Secondary exposure through prey is particularly difficult to prevent without systemic policy change.

What You Can Do

Avoid using second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides outdoors
Install barn owl nest boxes to support breeding pairs
Support campaigns for tighter rodenticide regulation to protect raptors