What Is Alphachloralose?

Alphachloralose is a narcotic used for the control of species of bird pest such as magpie, mynah, pigeon, sparrow and blackbird.

When used in concentrations of less than 2.5% alphachloralose will anaesthetise birds but not kill them allowing the pest species to be collected and humanely disposed of such as by placing in a freezer overnight.

Non-target species can be revived by placing them in a warm dark place for a few hours.

A poison licence is not required to use alphachloralose baits with concentrations below 2.5%.

Baits available include alphachloralose treated wheat, barely and peas supplied in 1.5kg and 4kg boxes. Alphachloralose is also available in paste form in 500g tubes.

Poisoning Principles

Pre-feeding for 3-10 days is essential to allow the target species to accept the bait. As a general rule pre-feed lure paste on bread is best used for magpies, mynahs and blackbirds, peas or wheat for pigeons and wheat and barley for sparrows.

Non-toxic baits should be laid at the same time and in the same manner each day at sites where the target species is known to feed.

After laying poisoned baits observe which direction birds fly to after feeding. Comatose birds should be collected at 30 minute to 1 hour intervals from these areas.

Before using any poison read the poison label, comply with the handling instructions, and ensure you understand the symptoms and the recommended first aid treatment.

For poisoning magpies and mynahs one slice of bread should be allowed per bird which should be cut into approximately 2cm2 pieces. For thorough magpie control poisoning can be followed up by using traps.

Baits for blackbirds and pigeons should be laid 30 minutes before dawn to catch the early bird. Approximately 50g of grain should be allowed per bird and laid in 1m wide strips with 300-600g per m2.

Baits for sparrows can be laid at anytime of the day at 10-12 different sites with poisoning continued for two days for best results.

Who Can Help?

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Pest Animal officers are available to offer advice on appropriate baiting methods. Lure paste and a number of alphachloralose treated baits can be purchased from Bay of Plenty Regional Council.