Help us to S.O.A.R.!
Save Our Amazing Raptors
What are we doing?
Restoring Oak Woodlands: We will work with our partners at OVLC to plant tree circles and contribute to the restoration of critical ecosystems. This hands-on effort will play a crucial role in ensuring the long-term survival of raptors in our region.
Canvassing Efforts: Our Youth Council team will canvass in Ojai Valley asking residents to sign a pledge stating that they will not use rodenticides on their property. Through educational campaigns and outreach efforts, the program aims to promote responsible pest control practices and reduce the use of these toxic substances.
Owl Box Installations: We will design, build, and install two owl boxes on the Nordhoff High School Campus. These structures will provide safe nesting spaces for owls, promoting natural pest control for the campus.
FAQs
What are rodenticides?
Rodenticides are chemicals designed to kill rodents, including rats and mice, and are typically used to control rodent populations in households, farms, and industrial facilities.
Why are rodenticides dangerous for raptors?
Raptors such as hawks, owls, and eagles are particularly vulnerable to rodenticides because they often hunt rodents as a primary food source.
Do rodenticides affect other animals?
Predatory and scavenging mammals, including foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and domestic pets like cats and dogs, can be affected by rodenticides when they ingest poisoned rodents.
Why are you installing owl boxes?
A family of Barn Owls can consume as many as 5,000 rodents in a single four month breeding cycle! This makes natural predation a great alternative to rodenticides.
What are some alternatives to rodenticides?
Alternatives to rodenticides include snap traps, live traps, natural predation, sealing entry points, and professional pest control services, which provide more environmentally friendly and humane methods for controlling rodent populations.
Do you have any resources for more information?
Yes, check out these links to more information from the Ojai Raptor Center!
No Rodenticides on my Property Pledge / Petition
Please take the time to sign this pledge/petition to #SAVETHERAPTORS. Your signature is not just a name on a list; it's a symbol of your belief in responsible and environmentally conscious practices. Together, we can inspire change, promote awareness, and encourage others to make a difference as well!