Rodenticides: Background & Hazards

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As a neurotoxicant, bromethalin poisons the central nervous system and ultimately causes respiratory distress following ingestion of a single dose. Cholecalciferol, the biologically active form of vitamin D, is completely nontoxic in small amounts, but massive single doses or prolonged low level exposure can prove toxic. Ingestion of excessive amounts of cholecalciferol induces hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels), which ultimately results in heart problems and kidney failure. Zinc phosphide, which functions to liberate toxic phosphine gas upon interaction with stomach acid, is highly toxic and can lead to rodent mortality within hours of ingestion. Unfortunately, zinc phosphide can also poison birds, such as hawks and owls, following ingestion of treated baits. Non -Anticoagulant Rodenticides Bromethalin Cholecalciferol Zinc Phosphide Non -anticoagulant, single dose treatment High Low (birds and Low (birds and mammals) mammals) Non -anticoagulant, multiple High or single dose treatment Low to moderate Low (birds and. (birds and mammals) mammals) Non -anticoagulant, single High High (birds and Low (birds and mammals) mammals) dose treatment For more information on different types of rodenticides, see the National Pesticide Information Center's (NPIC) fact sheet. Rodent Control The first line of defense against rodents should be exclusion and trapping. These methods do not pose a poisoning risk to children, pets and wildlife. If you plan to use rodenticides, be sure to follow all label directions. Remember, removing rodents with traps or poisons will not keep rodents out of your property in the future. To permanently keep rats and mice out of your home or business, you will need to prevent access by sealing all possible entry points. It is equally as important to eliminate rodent attractions such as food and water by keeping food in tightly sealed glass or plastic containers and repairing leaky pipes. For more resources on rodent control, see our page on rodent control strategies and visit the National Pesticide Information Center. References • Erickson, W. and D. Urban. 2004. Potential Risks of Nine Rodenticides to Birds and Nontarget Mammals: a Comparative Approach, US EPA • Fishel FM. 2012. Pesticide Toxicity Profile: Coumarin and Indandione Rodenticides . University of Florida IFAS Extension. • Fishel FM. 2012. Pesticide Toxicity Profile: Miscellaneous Rodenticides. University of Florida IFAS Extension. • Hadler MR, Buckle, AP. 1992.Forty-five years of anticoagulant rodenticides—Past, present and Future Trends. Proceedings of the Fifteenth Vertebrate Pest Conference 1992. Paper 36.