Wildlife

UK Barn Owl Population and Rodenticide Risk

The threat to barn owl welfare and conservation from second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides used in agriculture.

Key Facts

Second-generation anticoagulants including brodifacoum have been found in barn owl carcasses
Rodenticide residues are found in the majority of barn owls tested in the UK
Barn owl populations declined significantly in the 20th century
Nest box schemes have supported population recovery alongside habitat management
Barn owls provide free natural rodent control as an ecosystem service

Welfare Considerations

Rodenticide poisoning causes slow, painful death in barn owls and secondary poisoning is a significant ongoing welfare and conservation concern.

What You Can Do

Support barn owl nest box schemes in your area
Advocate for restrictions on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides
Report dead barn owls for toxicology testing to the Barn Owl Trust