Wildlife

Barn Owl Conservation and Rodenticide Welfare

Barn owl populations are threatened by secondary rodenticide poisoning from rodent control. Integrated pest management protects owls while managing rodent populations.

Key Facts

UK barn owl populations have recovered from historic lows but remain vulnerable
Barn owls accumulate rodenticide through eating poisoned rodents, causing internal bleeding
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are found in over 80% of tested barn owls in the UK
Barn owl boxes, which encourage owls as natural rodent control, are a effective integrated approach
Rodenticide-free farms using physical trapping and habitat management protect owl populations

Welfare Considerations

Secondary rodenticide poisoning causes slow internal bleeding death in barn owls who have done nothing more than fulfill their natural role as rodent predators. The welfare cost is severe and the conservation impact significant. Integrated pest management that reduces or eliminates rodenticide use in owl habitat protects these animals while managing rodents effectively through alternative methods.

What You Can Do

Avoid using second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in home and farm settings
Report barn owl road casualties and nest sites to the Barn Owl Trust monitoring scheme
Install barn owl nesting boxes to encourage natural rodent control on rural properties
Advocate for agricultural pesticide restrictions that protect barn owls and other raptors