The RAT Problem

UHills Rodent Management History

ICHA currently uses the rodenticide Selontra with the active ingredient cholecalciferol in rat bait stations serviced monthly by a pest management company. Multiple feedings of cholecalciferol or vitamin D3 are toxic to rats. Studies have concluded that direct consumption in large enough quantities can be toxic to wildlife, household pets, and humans. According to Selontra’s Safety Data Sheet: “If dead and/or dying rats or mice are found during and after the control program, these must be cleared away immediately in order to avoid secondary poisoning phenomena. Do not apply in the open – cover bait points or use bait boxes.” (BASF, Safety Data Sheet Selontra Rodent Bait, 2021, Version 5.0, 30677351/SDS_CPA_US/EN)

Compared to anticoagulants, cholecalciferol has been touted as a lesser threat to pets and wildlife, however there is limited evidence that secondary poisoning may occur. HOOT suggests that inviting owls to Uhills and exposing them to the possibility of poisoning is not responsible. We therefore propose that ICHA switch to enclosed snap traps and we encourage residents to do the same.

The HOOT Group is working in concert with local raptor experts and others to investigate the feasibility of shifting UHills away from rodenticides toward safer non-toxic methods of rat control.