Are You Poisoning Our Wildlife?

You may be doing exactly that, without realizing it. Are you exterminating mice, rats, or other pests using an exterminator that applies Second Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs)?

These poisons don't just kill rats and mice. They work slowly, causing rodents to become weak and sluggish - easy prey for owls, hawks, foxes, bobcats, and other predators. But the danger doesn't stop there. SGAR residues build up in the bodies of these animals, leading to internal bleeding, severe illness, and often death.

Wildlife rehabilitators across Massachusetts are seeing an alarming rise in poisoning cases. These aren't pests, they're essential predators that help control rodent populations naturally and maintain balance in our ecosystems.

To address this, the Rescue Southern Berkshires Wildlife this spring launched a campaign in partnership with Mass Audubon that aims to raise awareness about the dangers of SGARs and promote safer alternatives for rodent control throughout South County, including right here in Sandisfield. Another campaign focuses on central and northern Berkshire towns.

Building awareness is just the first step. I became a member of the group and we're working to build a coalition of local residents, environmental organizations, and town leaders committed to banning SGAR use on municipal properties and ultimately supporting a statewide prohibition. Legislation to ban SGARs across Massachusetts has already been introduced, with support from Senator Paul Mark, Representative John Barrett III, and Representative Leigh Davis.

In the meantime, you can help protect our wildlife. Ask your pest control provider about safer alternatives, such as Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which prioritizes prevention and non-toxic methods. Talk to your neighbors. Help spread the word.

And most importantly, get involved. Join our growing community online through the Rescue Southern Berkshires Wildlife Facebook group and help advocate for change in Sandisfield and our neighboring towns.

Together, we can end the silent poisoning of our most iconic wildlife.

Join Us!