Rat baits banned

Australia’s owls and other wildlife will enjoy a life free from the potential harm of over-the-counter rat baits, following a decision to restrict the use of such products.

After four years of study, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has this week recommended certifying second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) as restricted chemical products (RCP).

Wildlife advocates have been campaigning for the action for years, saying that SGARs have a devastating effect on native reptiles and birds that ingest lethal or crippling doses when they eat poisoned rats.

According to Birdlife Australia, scientists at Edith Cown University have this week released the findings of a study into the cause of death of 13 Masked Owls in the south-west and metropolitan Perth. Every one had been exposed to long-lasting ‘second generation’ anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs), commonly known as ‘one-dose kills’ poisons available in common household brands.

BirdLife Australia CEO Kate Millar said the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) must act decisively.

“Shoppers should be able to walk into a store with the confidence that products for pest control won’t also kill native animals”, Millar said.

“The evidence is clear, and the choice is clear. Rat bait that kills owls must be banned from public sale. Safer, effective alternatives already exist on the very same shelves.”

The new status would mean that the purchase of products containing certain ingredients would be restricted to individuals who meet specific licensing requirements.