Deadly Danger for Hedgehogs and Humans

Introduction

The use of slug pellets in gardens across the country is posing a deadly threat to hedgehogs and humans alike. These pellets, which are designed to kill slugs and snails, contain a highly toxic chemical that can be fatal if ingested by hedgehogs or humans.

The Dangers of Slug Pellets

The main ingredient in slug pellets is metaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical that can cause severe poisoning in both humans and animals. If ingested, metaldehyde can cause a range of symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and even death. In humans, metaldehyde poisoning can also lead to kidney failure and liver damage.

Hedgehogs are particularly vulnerable to slug pellets because they are often attracted to the sweet smell of the pellets. Once ingested, the metaldehyde can quickly cause fatal poisoning. In fact, it is estimated that over 100,000 hedgehogs are killed by slug pellets each year in the UK alone.

The Alternatives to Slug Pellets

There are a number of alternative, non-toxic methods of slug and snail control that are available. These include:

• Using beer traps
• Hand-picking slugs and snails
• Using nematodes
• Creating a slug barrier

Conclusion

Slug pellets are a deadly threat to hedgehogs and humans alike. There are a number of alternative, non-toxic methods of slug and snail control that are available, so please consider using these instead of slug pellets.

By working together, we can help to protect hedgehogs and humans from the dangers of slug pellets.