Wildlife

Wild Barn Owl Rodenticide Campaign

Barn owls are highly susceptible to secondary rodenticide poisoning, and campaigns for restrictions on second-generation anticoagulants are gaining traction.

Key Facts

SGARs are found in over 80% of barn owls tested in the UK
SGARs accumulate in prey species and reach lethal concentrations in predators
The UK Rodenticide Stewardship Scheme restricts SGAR use to trained operators
Barn owl Trust monitoring data show SGAR prevalence has not declined despite restrictions
France has banned outdoor SGAR use with initial evidence of reduced predator exposure

Welfare Considerations

Barn owls poisoned by secondary SGAR exposure die from internal haemorrhage over days to weeks, experiencing progressive weakness and inability to fly. Sub-lethal exposure impairs hunting and reproductive success. The welfare impact extends beyond individuals to populations as SGAR exposure reduces breeding success across landscapes with widespread rodenticide use.

What You Can Do

Use only snap traps or live traps rather than rodenticide for rodent control
If using rodenticide choose first-generation products with lower predator risk
Support Barn Owl Trust campaigns for stronger SGAR restrictions
Report barn owl casualties to the Barn Owl Trust for monitoring
Install barn owl nest boxes on suitable rural buildings