Owl deaths lead to pest control changes

Recently, our attention has been drawn to a heartbreaking story out of Safety Harbor, Florida, where a family of great horned owls died after consuming rodents that had ingested highly toxic rodenticides. As a professional in the pest control industry and more importantly, as a community member who values both public health and wildlife I feel a responsibility to speak on this issue and share what we at Pest Control Service Limited are doing in response.

What Went Wrong?

The root of the problem lies in a class of chemicals called second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs). These poisons are extremely effective at killing rodents, but they don't stop there. When owls or other predators eat poisoned rats, they too become victims often suffering painful, internal bleeding before succumbing.

This incident prompted the City of St. Petersburg to act swiftly, initiating a pilot program using less-toxic alternatives, including corn-glucose based baits that dehydrate rodents instead of using blood thinners. It’s a bold and necessary step in the right direction.

Why This Matters for All of Us

Whether you live in an urban neighborhood, the suburbs, or the countryside, the way we handle pest problems affects the entire ecosystem. Owls, hawks, foxes, and even pets can be harmed by traditional poisons. As pest control professionals, it’s time we recognize that solving one problem should never create another.

Our Commitment to Safer Pest Control

At Pest Control Service Limited, we are committed to moving away from hazardous chemicals and toward eco-friendly, responsible solutions. Here’s how we’re changing our approach:

• We no longer recommend SGARs for general use, and we're phasing them out of our inventory.

• We prioritize mechanical traps (like snap and electrocution traps), which are safe for non-target wildlife.

• Our team now offers natural deterrents, such as exclusion methods and habitat modification.

• When bait is necessary, we are transitioning to first-generation or non-anticoagulant rodenticides with far less risk to other animals.

Educating Our Clients Is Key

We believe in empowering our customers to make smart, informed choices. That’s why we explain the risks of different control methods and offer customized, low-impact solutions based on each property’s needs.

It’s also why we encourage homeowners and businesses alike to think long-term reducing attractants like food waste, sealing entry points, and promoting natural predators like owls as a frontline defense against rodents.

A Better Future Starts Today

This tragic incident with the owls serves as a wake-up call for our industry. Wildlife is not just a beautiful part of our ecosystem — it's an essential one. By choosing smarter pest control practices, we can protect both our homes and the natural world around us.

At Pest Control Service Limited, we’re proud to be part of that change. If you’re looking for pest control that’s effective, safe, and responsible, we’re here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why are second-generation rodenticides dangerous?

These poisons can stay in the rodent’s body. If a pet or wild animal eats the poisoned rodent, they can get very sick or die.

2. What are the safer options?

Traps, natural bait, and sealing holes are safer and still effective. We also use first-generation poisons only if absolutely needed.

3. Can you still get rid of rats without poison?

Yes! We offer many poison-free ways to remove and prevent rats, including traps and pest-proofing your home.

4. Is your service safe for kids and pets?

Yes. All our products and tools are chosen to keep your family and pets safe.

5. How can I prevent rats from coming back?

Keep food sealed, fix leaks, clean up trash, and close up holes in your home. We can help with all of that.