From harm to harmony: ban rat poisons
Join our mission to protect Australia's native species, companion animals, and environment from the silent threat of SGARs.
SGARs: the hidden killer in our midst
Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) cause fatal internal bleeding and create a deadly chain reaction through secondary poisoning.
From rodents to raptors: how SGARs work
SGARs are potent poisons designed to kill rodent populations. Unlike their predecessors, SGARs are lethal in a single dose, making them a grave threat to our ecosystem. Often sold as easily accessible bait blocks or pellets with no retail regulations, these poisons put our wildlife at unnecessary risk. Click below to learn more:
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SGARs are designed to kill with a single dose, making them deadly efficient but indiscriminate. Even small amounts can be fatal to non-target species, including our precious wildlife and beloved pets.
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These poisons linger in an animal's body for months, creating a ticking time bomb for predators and scavengers. This prolonged activity turns poisoned animals into toxic prey, spreading the danger far beyond the initial bait site.
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SGARs build up in the food chain over time. As predators consume poisoned prey, the toxin concentrates in their bodies, leading to severe health issues, reproductive failures, and death. This cascading effect can disrupt entire ecosystems.
Action Hub
Protecting wildlife, companions, and communities from the dangers of rat poisons starts with you.
Your action today can save countless lives and preserve our unique ecosystem for generations to come. Join our movement and make a tangible difference by signing our petition today:
The dangers of SGARs
SGARs pose a grave threat not just to rodents, but to wildlife, companion animals, and even humans. Discover the full extent of their impact below:
Wildlife under siege
SGARs are wreaking havoc on our native fauna, causing untold suffering and disrupting delicate ecosystems. The widespread use of these poisons threatens our biodiversity and demands urgent action:
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Birds of prey are particularly vulnerable to SGARs. A staggering 92% of analysed birds had SGARs in their systems, leading to slow, painful deaths that can last for days.
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Vulnerable species like quolls and possums face high risks of SGAR poisoning, either through direct bait consumption or by eating poisoned prey.
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By decimating predator populations, SGARs inadvertently allow rodent numbers to surge, creating further ecological instability.
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Recent Australian studies reveal lethal SGAR concentrations in 33% of powerful owls, 42% of southern boobooks, 68% of tawny frogmouths, and 80% of barn owls. These numbers underscore the urgent need for action.
Companions in peril
SGARs pose a grave threat to companion animals, causing severe and often fatal health issues. Learn how to safeguard your loved ones from this hidden danger:
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Cats and dogs risk SGAR exposure through direct bait contact or by consuming poisoned rodents. Symptoms include lethargy, bleeding gums, nosebleeds, and breathing difficulties.
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SGAR poisoning cases in companion animals often require intensive care, including blood transfusions and vitamin K therapy. Despite treatment, the prognosis is often poor.
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Protect your companions by using non-lethal control methods, keeping animals indoors, and staying vigilant during outdoor activities. Know the signs of poisoning and seek immediate veterinary care if exposure is suspected.
Impacts on human health
SGARs aren't just a threat to animals - they pose serious risks to human health, too. From accidental exposure to long-term health effects, the dangers of SGARs extend to our communities:
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Children are particularly at risk of SGAR poisoning through direct contact with baits or contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include bruising and blood in urine or stool.
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Control workers and technicians face elevated risks from long-term SGAR exposure, including increased cancer risk and respiratory problems.
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SGAR exposure can lead to blood clotting disorders, liver damage, and in severe cases, can be fatal. Early detection and treatment are crucial.
“Most deaths will occur far from the original bait, as the poison travels through other species in the food web to reach its final destination”
- Lohr and Davis -
Be our eyes: report SGAR sightings
SGARs often come in blue or red block form and are commonly found in bait stations or openly distributed. If you spot these poisons in your area: