Target: Mike Moyes, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Manitoba
Goal: Halt the use of lethal poisons on wildlife, which cause suffering and endanger other animals.
The recent decision by Minister Mike Moyes to uphold a permit allowing the City of Winnipeg to use lethal poisons—Rozol and RoCon—against Richardson’s ground squirrels raises serious concerns regarding animal welfare and ecological integrity. These poisons lead to a prolonged, agonizing death for the animals that ingest them, causing internal bleeding and respiratory distress that can last for days or even weeks. The tragic consequence of nursing mothers consuming this poison can result in their dependent young starving in their burrows, evoking a vital call for compassion and humane treatment of all wildlife.
Furthermore, the use of Rozol and RoCon not only threatens ground squirrels but also poses a significant risk to other species. Secondary poisoning may occur when predators and scavengers consume the remains of poisoned animals, which in turn can affect companion animals such as dogs and cats, as well as native wildlife like hawks and foxes. Alarmingly, this poison can disrupt the food chain and endanger vulnerable species. Despite mounting evidence presented by Animal Justice and experts like Dr. James Hare, including recommendations for humane alternatives, the Minister’s dismissal of these concerns appears to reflect a grave misunderstanding of the ethical responsibilities tied to pesticide use.
Immediate action is required to protect wildlife from these cruel methods, as well as to ensure a shift toward humane pest management practices. The demand is clear: the use of Rozol and RoCon should be terminated, and the focus should shift to non-lethal solutions for wildlife management in Winnipeg. No animal should suffer through excruciating pain, nor should communities be endangered by toxic residues left in the environment.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Moyes,
The decision to continue permitting the use of lethal poisons like Rozol and RoCon against Richardson’s ground squirrels is deeply troubling and raises urgent ethical concerns. Reports indicate that these poisons can inflict severe suffering, leading to prolonged internal bleeding and respiratory issues. The tragic fate of nursing mothers and their young, who may starve as a result of this cruel practice, is unacceptable in any context.
Additionally, secondary poisoning poses a serious risk not just to wildlife, but also to companion animals and the broader ecosystem. The ecological consequences of such actions cannot be understated, especially when there are viable, humane alternatives available. The evidence presented by concerned organizations and experts demands a reconsideration of these drastic measures.
It is imperative that the City of Winnipeg be guided towards humane and effective wildlife management strategies that prioritize the well-being of all animals. Therefore, the use of Rozol and RoCon must cease, allowing for the exploration and implementation of compassionate alternatives.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
