When we think about climate action, rodent control probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind—but it’s more connected than you might think. New Bedford is working to build a healthier, more sustainable community, which means climate action must extend beyond just energy and emissions. We also must work on how we manage waste, protect ecosystems, and coexist with local wildlife. Rodent control is one of those often-overlooked intersections—where public health, environmental protection, and climate resilience meet.
The recent attention on rodents in the area is an opportunity to discuss the types of solutions to unwanted pests.
Waste management is the best course of action to manage pests on a long-term ongoing basis, but when issues arise, immediate elimination of the problem is the most common approach. There are several types of short-term rodent elimination methods and the rodenticides we choose matter to our pets and the wildlife that hunt rodents. One type of rodenticide that has been widely used is an anticoagulant (powerful blood thinner). Although effective at killing some rodents (albeit slow and painful), these poisons, also referred to as FGARs or SGARs are extremely dangerous to other wildlife and pets, and are responsible for numerous accidental deaths. There is currently legislation proposed at the State House (House Bill H965 and Senate Bill S644) to restrict use of FGARs or SGARs in the environment. Rat-X is an alternative poison that will not impact predators but will fatally dehydrate rodents including non-target chipmunks and squirrels. Learn more at: A Campaign to Rescue Raptors.
There are alternative short-term controls available that are just as effective and humane. Rodent birth control methods like Evolve and Contrapest prevent rodent population growth while also being safe for use around pets and wildlife. But remember—all of these methods listed above are baiting methods used to lure the rodents to the bait location and none should be used on a long-term basis. Rodents will move on without a food source so keeping trash secure and removing feed, birdseed, and pet foods from outside areas is the most effective way to eliminate these pests.
Learn more about the Rescue Raptors Campaign:
Toolkit: Rescue Raptors Toolkit - Google Docs
Brochure: Mass Audubon Rescue Raptors Brochure.pdf - Google Drive
Cover photo courtesy of Mass Audubon