What new report shows wildlife being poisoned in California?

A recent report from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife details widespread poisonings of numerous species due to anticoagulant rodenticides.

Why is the Newsom administration considering loosening restrictions on rat poisons?

The administration is proposing to reduce restrictions on toxic rat poisons, a move critics attribute to industry influence, despite evidence of harm to wildlife.

What are the dangers of anticoagulant rodenticides for wildlife in California?

Anticoagulant rodenticides cause internal bleeding and disorientation, affecting predators up the food chain, including endangered species like California condors.

Home / Environment / California Eyes Looser Rat Poison Rules Amid Wildlife Crisis

California Eyes Looser Rat Poison Rules Amid Wildlife Crisis

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

New report shows rodenticides poison wildlife, including endangered species.
Newsom administration plans to reduce restrictions on toxic rat poisons.
Pesticides department faces pressure due to its funding source.

California Eyes Looser Rat Poison Rules Amid Wildlife Crisis

California is on the verge of relaxing regulations on some of the most toxic rodenticides, even as a recent state report highlights their devastating impact on wildlife. The new data from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife reveals that dozens of species, including mountain lions and endangered condors, are being unintentionally poisoned. This comes as the administration of Governor Gavin Newsom proposes to roll back restrictions implemented by a 2024 law aimed at protecting wildlife from these dangerous chemicals.