Rodenticide Rules Change in BC

Via BC Ministry of Environment

To reduce the risk of wildlife poisoning, new requirements for the sale and use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are in effect on January 21, 2023.

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Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs)

SGARs are formulated as poisonous baits containing any of the following active ingredients:
•  Brodifacoum
•  Bromadiolone
•  Difethialone

These active ingredients are highly toxic, causing death by internal bleeding. Rodents only need one feeding to get a lethal dose.

SGARs can also pose a serious risk to people, pets and wildlife through direct and secondary poisoning. The risk of secondary poisoning for wildlife by SGARs is higher than first-generation products because the active ingredients stay in animal tissue for a long time after feeding.

Rodenticide poisoning

Direct poisoning
•  Pets, children and wildlife can die or be seriously hurt if they eat poisoned rodent bait

Secondary poisoning
•  Natural predators like hawks and owls can die or suffer long-term effects from eating poisoned rodents

SGAR update

In response to concerns over the effects on owls and other wildlife, the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides has been restricted to essential services. If you're not on the essential services list, you're not allowed to use these products.

The best way to manage rodents is with an integrated pest management approach.

For basic information, please review Managing rats and mice pests

For detailed information, please review the Integrated Pest Management for Rodents: A Guide for Residents (PDF, 3.6MB).