In a distressing revelation, researchers from the University of Sussex have uncovered widespread pesticide contamination in songbird nests across the UK, directly linked to common flea and tick treatments used on pets. This alarming discovery showed that every analyzed nest contained harmful chemicals such as fipronil – a substance banned for agricultural use within the UK and EU – highlighting an urgent gap in the environmental oversight of veterinary drugs.
Sign the petition to urge the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs to initiate a comprehensive environmental risk assessment of all veterinary drugs and impose stricter regulations on their use!
The implications of this oversight are grave, with a clear correlation found between the presence of these toxic substances in nests and an increased number of unhatched eggs and deceased chicks. Sadly, well-intentioned pet owners, following veterinary advice, are inadvertently contributing to the poisoning of our native bird populations.
The health of our wildlife and the integrity of our ecosystems are at stake. We call upon DEFRA to ensure that the care of our pets does not come at the expense of our country's wildlife. By signing this petition, you are standing for the protection of our beloved songbirds and calling for responsible pet care that aligns with the preservation of our natural environment.
Sign this petition to urge DEFRA to address this issue with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. Our wildlife, and our future generations, depend on it.
