The Hidden Dangers of Poison Bait: Protecting Our Wildlife
Banksia and her bub Willow were victims of rat poisoning. They were treated for weeks at a wildlife vet clinic. Sadly they were unable to be returned to their home, but found a new home at Amaris
Standing in front of the rat bait aisle at Bunnings, it's easy to see why these products are popular. They promise a quick and effective solution to rodent problems. However, what many people don't realise is the significant harm these baits can cause to our native wildlife.
The Problem with Rodent Baits
Rodenticides, commonly used to control rat and mouse populations, are highly toxic. They work by disrupting the blood clotting process, leading to internal bleeding and a slow, painful death for the rodents. Unfortunately, these poisons don't just affect the intended targets.
Secondary Poisoning
Secondary poisoning occurs when predators, such as owls, consume rodents that have ingested the bait. This can lead to the accumulation of toxins in the predator's body, often resulting in their death. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of owls, including the southern boobook owl, have toxic levels of rodenticides in their systems.
The Role of Owls
Owls play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations. A single owl can consume hundreds of rats and mice each year, providing a natural and effective form of pest control. By using rodenticides, we not only risk the lives of these magnificent birds but also disrupt the natural balance of our ecosystems.
Rabbit Baits and Their Impact
Baits used for controlling rabbit populations, such as Pindone and 1080, are also highly toxic and pose significant risks to other wildlife. These baits are often consumed by kangaroos, possums, and other native animals, leading to their unintentional poisoning and death.
Pindone is a first-generation anticoagulant poison (similar to some rat poisons), used to control rabbits in Australia since the 1980’s. The most common baits used are carrots and oats.
Pindone poisoning poses a significant threat to a wide range of wildlife species that may consume baited carrots and oats. Here are some of the animals that can be affected:
Kangaroos: Western grey kangaroos are highly sensitive to pindone and can suffer severe poisoning.
Possums: Both brush tail and ringtail possums are at risk of primary poisoning when they consume baited food.
Bandicoots: Southern brown bandicoots are confirmed casualties of pindone poisoning campaigns.
Birds: Various bird species, including crested pigeons, plovers, quail, rails, wrybills, silvereyes, grey warblers, black-backed gulls, and Australian harriers, have been affected.
Goannas: These reptiles are also at risk of both primary and secondary poisoning.
Raptors: Predatory birds like wedge-tailed eagles and brown goshawks can suffer secondary poisoning by consuming contaminated prey.
Quolls: These carnivorous marsupials are particularly vulnerable to secondary poisoning due to their diet, which often includes rabbits.
Swamp Wallabies: These animals are at risk of both primary and secondary poisoning
We suspect Pax’s mother was also poisoned. Thankfully we were able rescue Pax and he was released as a beautiful big boy.
The Cost of Treatment
For wildlife that survives rodenticide poisoning, the road to recovery is long and expensive. Treatment typically involves administering Vitamin K for several weeks to counteract the effects of the poison. This process is not only costly but also stressful for the animals and the caregivers involved.
What Can You Do?
Avoid Using Rodenticides and Rabbit Baits: Opt for alternative pest control methods, such as traps or natural deterrents.
Secure Food Sources: Keep food and waste securely stored to reduce the attraction of rodents and rabbits.
Support Wildlife-Friendly Practices: Encourage the use of wildlife-friendly pest control methods in your community.
By making informed choices and spreading awareness, we can protect our native wildlife from the unintended consequences of rodent and rabbit baits. Let's work together to ensure a safer environment for all creatures.
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