Protecting Raptors by Banning Rat Poisons

Rhode Island is now the second state in the nation to restrict the use of dangerous anticoagulant rodenticides!

On June 18, 2026, Governor Daniel McKee signed into law landmark legislation restricting the use of dangerous anticoagulant rodenticides—the blood-thinning rat poisons responsible for the injury and death of countless hawks, owls, eagles, and other wildlife. With this action, Rhode Island becomes only the second state in the nation to pass legislation of this kind. 

This victory did not happen overnight. It represents years of advocacy, education, investment, and partnership led by Audubon, along with the support of dedicated members like you who believe that wildlife deserves protection from unnecessary threats. 

The implementation of this new law won’t happen overnight either. This legislation establishes a commonsense, science-based approach that protects wildlife while helping communities adopt safer and more effective pest management practices. That will take time, and we’re excited to keep you updated on this page as progress continues.

Learn More About How This Law Protects Raptors

Audubon introduced this legislation in the General Assembly in 2024 and worked closely with legislators, veterinarians, conservation partners, and wildlife rehabilitators at the Wildlife Clinic of RI and Congress of the Birds to advance it. 

We are deeply grateful to Representative Rebecca Kislak and Senator Melissa Murray for their leadership in making this vision a reality, and Governor McKee for signing the legislation.

View the 2026 Rhode Island Legislation:

Summary: RI H7222 & S2795 (2026)

House Bill 7222  |  Senate Bill 2795
 

Barred Owl flying through forest with rodent in beak

Barred Owl by Jenny Zhao courtesy of Mass Audubon

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More on Rodenticides and the Safer Alternatives

Commonly used poisons called Anticoagulant Rodenticides are lethal pesticides used in an attempt to control rodent populations. Black box bait stations containing these rat poisons are placed alongside homes, hotels, grocery stores, daycare centers, and more.

Rodenticides are proven to have devastating consequences on the ecosystem: any bird, wildlife or pet that eats poisoned rodents accumulates rodenticides in their own bodies, often leading to death. Since raptors consume thousands of rodents a year, they are particularly susceptible to these impacts. Safer alternatives exist, and when used together, are often more effective than simply relying on rodenticides.

Rhode Island’s wildlife rehabilitators were critical in getting this legislation passed. They've seen first hand how anticoagulant rodenticides impact many of the animals they treat. Watch a video of federally licensed wildlife rehabilitator Sheida Soleimani, who operates a clinic called Congress of the Birds, testify in 2024. 

 

Do you have rodents?

You can reduce your rodent problem AND save thousands of raptors annually! Check out the resources below.

Audubon's Two-Pager on Integrated Pest Management
Great for sharing with businesses and neighbors!

Integrated Pest Management Toolkit
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a combination of strategies that modify the environment and make it less attractive for rodents. Check out this toolkit created by experts from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire Audubons.

Pest Prevention Resource Guide by the City of Providence
Review these prevention tips and guidance to help make your property “Rodent Ready!”

WATCH: Forum for Safe Rodent Control in New England
We brought together New England’s leading poison-free pest control professionals to discuss how to safely manage rodent problems. Watch to learn about their proven, wildlife-safe pest control approaches, then bring your knowledge home to advocate for an end to rodent poison use in your community! 

In The News

Provincetown Is Feeding Contraceptives to Its Rats
In bait stations all across town, birth control is replacing rat poison

Audubon Society of Rhode Island