Intentional Poisoning of Birds with Parathion

Abstract

-Intentional poisoning of birds by farmers is not uncommon but is rarely documented and given proper attention. Two recent cases from New York are illustrative. In the first, at least 5,120 birds, mostly Red-winged Blackbirds (Ageu Tucker and Crabtree 1970, Schafer 1972). Accidental deaths of numerous wild birds have resulted from the agricultural use of parathion. White et al. (1982a, b) reported the deaths of over 1,600 waterfowl, mostly Canada Geese (Branta canadensis), from applications of parathion to agricultural fields in Texas. More insidious and less appreciated is the use of parathion to deliberately poison wild birds. Carson (1962) described the purposeful killing, by farmers, of an estimated 65,000 birds with parathion. Farmers continue to intentionally kill birds with parathion and this report describes the investigation of two recent cases in New York State.