Ecological Correlates of Anticoagulant Rodenticide Exposure in Coyotes in Southern California
This study investigates the exposure of coyotes (Canis latrans) in Southern California to anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) and its potential sub-lethal effects. ARs, commonly used for rodent control, are linked to secondary poisoning in non-target wildlife. The study analyzed 353 coyotes for AR residues and their body condition indices while examining the impact of landscape patterns on exposure.
Key Findings
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High Exposure Rates: 98% of sampled coyotes showed exposure to ARs, predominantly second-generation anticoagulants (SGARs). Bromadiolone was the most frequently detected compound.
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Landscape Correlations: SGAR exposure was more common in natural landscapes, while first-generation ARs (FGARs) were associated with urbanized areas
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Sub-Lethal Effects: While SGARs were not significantly linked to reduced body condition, FGARs showed stronger correlations with poor body condition and higher parasite loads in coyotes.
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Age Factor: Younger coyotes were generally in poorer condition, highlighting potential vulnerabilities due to limited resource access or AR exposure.