What does secondary poisoning refer to?

Secondary poisoning refers to the harmful effects that occur when a predator or scavenger consumes another animal that has been poisoned by a pesticide. In this scenario, the primary animal (the prey) has absorbed the toxic substance, and when another animal (the predator) ingests that prey, it then experiences the toxic effects, which can vary in severity depending on factors such as the type of poison and the amount consumed. This phenomenon illustrates the interconnectedness of ecosystems and highlights the risk that pesticide use can pose not only to target pests but also to non-target species.

Understanding secondary poisoning is crucial for pesticide applicators and environmental professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of considering the broader ecological impacts of pesticide use, including the potential for collateral damage to wildlife. Effective pest management strategies must take into account not just the effects on targeted pests, but also the potential consequences for other animals in the food chain.