Bait threat to wildlife
LOCALS are being warned that leaving poison out amid the “mouse plague” could harm other wildlife, after a number of birds of prey died of suspected secondary poisoning.
Domestic pets are also suffering as people scramble to get rid of rodents.
Secondary poisoning occurs when an animal eats another animal that has ingested a pesticide.
“We’ve had several birds of prey, owls in particular, that are presenting very sick or ill, and usually have to be put to sleep,” Surf Coast Wildlife Rescue’s Jason Cichocki said.
Mr Cichocki said the increase had occurred over “probably the last two months”.
“Due to the costs involved in autopsies, we don’t do them on every animal,” he said. Mr Cichocki said he was “definitely concerned” about the issue, and while there was not physical proof the birds were being made sick by secondary poisoning, it was strongly suspected.
He did not believe people realised the secondary poisoning risks associated with leaving out rodenticides.
Ocean Grove wildlife carer and veterinary nurse Leila
Merritt said Bellarine Peninsula vets were seeing a lot of domestic pets with secondary poisoning.
“In the next week or two we are expecting to see a surge in wildlife, including birds of prey, because of the rodent issue and people using bait,” she said.
Ms Merritt said time was of the essence in situations involving pets and bait, and the animals needed to be treated immediately once owners had noticed.
She said she would “never” recommend using any type of bait for rodents.
“I would suggest using traps such as electronic traps. They are so much safer for domestic animals and wildlife,” she said.
An Agriculture Victoria spokeswoman said all poisons should be used in accordance with the product label.