Hilton's Owls
Keeping our local owl populations safe starts with responsible rodent control. By making a few simple changes around your home and garden, you can help protect these magnificent birds from the dangers of rodenticides.
Here are some effective tips to make your house and garden less attractive to rodents and ensure your rodent control methods are bird-friendly.
Protect your home and garden from rodents.
-
Clean up garden waste such as fallen fruit.
-
Seal roof and wall cavity access points to prevent entry.
-
Ensure excess pet food isn't accessible to rodents
-
Rodent-proof chicken pens and aviaries to keep them safe.
-
Limit access to compost heaps by lining the base and turning it over regularly
Traps & Poison
If you’re facing a rodent problem, there are many different traps available depending on your circumstances. It’s important to select traps that are effective for your specific situation. Any kind of poison should always be a last resort when managing unwanted rodents. If you must use poison, choose owl-friendly options.
01
Outdoor Trapping
When trapping outside or in areas accessible to other species, use traps that do not pose a risk to non-target animals. Consider live traps so any non-target species can be safely released.
03
Owl-Friendly Poisons
Owl-friendly poisons and baits usually contain First-Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (FGARS). The key ingredients in these are Warfarin, Coumatetralyl, or Diphacinone. Brands such as Ratsak Double Strength and Racumin are good options.
02
Indoor Trapping
Snap traps are highly effective and a good option for use inside the home. They provide a quick and humane solution to rodent problems.
04
Safe Application
Ensure that baits are in block or paste form and are delivered in tamper-proof bait stations. Avoid bait pellets as these can be easily eaten by other animals.
Garden Verge and Tree Initiatives
Gardens, Verges, and Trees are approaching local businesses to move away from harmful SGARs and focus on using safer alternatives. We are pleased to announce that Gilbert’s landlord has already changed their practice and stopped using SGARs. This positive step sets a great example for other businesses to follow, helping to protect our local owl populations and promote a healthier environment.
Flyers have been distributed to Hilton residents, and stickers promoting owl-friendly practices are available. Please email us at hiltonprecinct@gmail.com to obtain a sticker.
By following these tips, you can help create a safer environment for our local owls and contribute to their conservation. Let’s work together to protect these incredible birds!