What can be used to poison mice? - briefly
Common rodenticides include anticoagulant compounds such as warfarin, brodifacoum, and bromadiolone, and acute toxins like bromethalin and zinc phosphide. These agents are typically delivered in bait or pellet form for effective mouse control.
What can be used to poison mice? - in detail
Rodenticides fall into several chemical families, each with a distinct mode of action and regulatory status. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, brodifacoum, and difenacoum, inhibit vitamin K recycling, causing lethal internal bleeding after several days of ingestion. First‑generation anticoagulants (warfarin, chlorophacinone) require multiple feedings; second‑generation compounds (brodifacoum, difethialone) are effective after a single dose but pose higher secondary‑poisoning risk.
Metal phosphides, notably zinc phosphide and aluminum phosphide, release phosphine gas when they contact stomach acid. Phosphine interferes with cellular respiration, resulting in rapid death. These agents are permitted for outdoor use in many jurisdictions but are restricted indoors due to toxicity to humans and non‑target species.
Neurotoxic agents include strychnine and bromethalin. Strychnine blocks glycine receptors, producing uncontrolled muscle convulsions and respiratory failure. Bromethalin disrupts mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, leading to cerebral edema and death. Both chemicals demand careful handling and are often limited to professional pest‑control operations.
Organic insecticides adapted for rodent control, such as sodium fluoroacetate (1080), inhibit the citric‑acid cycle, causing energy depletion. Use is heavily regulated because of environmental persistence and risk to wildlife.
Non‑chemical options, while not poisons, complement toxic methods. Mechanical traps, electronic devices, and exclusion techniques reduce reliance on hazardous substances and mitigate secondary‑poisoning incidents.
Selection criteria for an appropriate toxicant include target species susceptibility, bait acceptance, speed of action, risk to non‑target organisms, and compliance with local regulations. Proper bait placement, secure containment, and disposal of carcasses are essential to prevent accidental exposure and environmental contamination.