Native Wildlife & Rodenticides: A Deadly Combination
Key Points on Rodenticide Use
- Rodenticides are deadly by design and cannot be considered “safe” for households, children, pets, or wildlife.
- Common products contain strong chemicals like brodifacoum, which can lead to serious poisoning if ingested by pets, wildlife, or humans.
- Secondary poisoning happens when predators, pets, or wildlife eat rodents that have already consumed rodenticides. This can be fatal.
Dangers to Pets, Wildlife, and the Environment
| At Risk | Main Issue |
|---|---|
| Pets | Bleeding, seizures, organ failure; ingestion can be life-threatening. |
| Wildlife | Birds of prey, snakes, and other predators die from eating poisoned rodents. |
| Native Species | Essential food for endangered birds such as owls and raptors. |
Important: If you suspect your pet has ingested rodenticide, seek a vet immediately. Early treatment can be life-saving.
Why Not to Rely on Poisons
- Kills native rodents that are essential for ecological balance.
- Disrupts the food chain, putting endangered native predators at greater risk.
- Dead rodents sometimes die in walls or other hidden areas, creating unpleasant odours and possible health risks.
Recommended Rodent Control: Safe and Effective Strategies
1. Sanitation
- Remove rubbish, stacked timber, and yard debris where rodents can hide.
- Store pet food, wild birdseed, and organic fertilisers in rodent-proof containers.
- Pick up fallen fruit from yard and seal garbage bins tightly.
2. Exclusion
- Seal all openings: Rodents can squeeze through gaps as small as 6mm (1/4 inch).
- Use sturdy materials like sheet metal, steel wool, and wire screening to seal holes.
- Fit tight door and window seals and install door sweeps.
3. Population Control
- Traps: Snap traps baited with peanut butter are humane and environmentally safe.
- Never use traps or poisons outside, as native wildlife and pets can be harmed.
- Avoid glue traps, which are cruel and unnecessary.
What to Avoid
- Never feed wildlife. Attracting them can encourage rodents and disrupt natural cycles.
- Avoid rodenticides and glue traps outdoors under all circumstances.
- If you must use traps, check them frequently and handle caught rodents hygienically.
When to Seek Medical Help
If anyone—person, child, or pet—has possibly consumed rodenticide:
- Act immediately.
- Contact a doctor, the Poison Information Centre (13 11 26), or your local vet if it’s a pet.
- Know the product name and active ingredient if possible.
Conclusion & Ongoing Advice
Rodent control is best handled through sanitation and exclusion, not poisons. This protects your family, pets, and local wildlife while supporting natural ecological balance.