Bird Friendly Rodent Control in the Town of Victoria Park
The rodent management solutions we choose can have significant direct and indirect effects on local wildlife. New Federal rulings introduce restrictions on Second-generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGAR), which can be found in many popular over-the-counter rat and mouse control products.
SGARs don't kill rodents instantly and often result in secondary poisoning of many native birds and animals that feed on rats and mice. Studies in Australia have found harmful, and often fatal levels of SGARs in dead birds of prey, including Southern Boobooks, Wedge-tailed Eagles, and Powerful Owls. They have also been indicated in the deaths of native reptiles, marsupials, and domestic pets.
The Town of Victoria Park recently changed all rat baits at its facilities from SGARs to First-generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (FGARs). FGARs break down more quickly so there is less chance of larger animals experiencing secondary poisoning.
Residents are also encouraged to make better choices and help protect our native wildlife by using bird friendly rodent controls around the home.
How can I help?
- avoid using SGARs
- promote bird-friendly environments outdoors
- use other forms of rodent control
Which rodenticide should I use?
Safer alternative FGAR products can be recognised by the following active ingredients:
- Sodium chloride
- Warfarin
- Coumatetralyl
- Diphacinone
SGAR products have the following active ingredients and should be avoided:
- Brodifacoum
- Bromadiolone
- Difethialone
- Difenacoum
- Flocoumafen
See a full list of what to avoid and what to buy at ActForBirds.org
Make your garden bird-friendly
Having a healthy population of birds of prey naturally keeps rodent numbers down. You can encourage birds by:
- planting native plants with good canopy cover or protecting existing trees especially those containing hollows
- installing nesting boxes
- using snap traps instead of rodent baits
In addition to safer FGARs, you can also discourage rats from infesting your property by taking a few extra measures around your home and garden including:
- securely storing food in pantries and pet food away from rodents
- rodent proofing chicken pens and aviaries
- sealing potential access points into your home – for example roof and wall cavities
- removing fallen fruit from trees
- keeping your backyard, sheds and garden waste clean and tidy
- if you have a compost bin, install vermin mesh over the base and ensure you turn it over regularly, so it breaks down quicker.
Visit the Birdlife website for more information.
Some of the content on this web page was adapted from the City of Canning, with gratitude.