Fortescue removes high-risk rodenticides from operations to protect native wildlife

Fortescue has removed second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) from its operations, reducing the risk to native wildlife while continuing to control rodents at its sites.

The change was made in August 2025 after environmental reviews found these poisons could harm threatened species, including the Northern Quoll.

Rodent control remains essential to protect the health and safety of personnel and infrastructure. However, some rodenticides can persist in the environment and accumulate in the bodies of native predators and scavengers, impacting them.

Fortescue Director Approvals, Communities and Services Rosli Wheelock said: “We operate in some of Australia’s most important natural habitats, and we have a responsibility to look after them.

“When we saw these products could put native wildlife at risk, we made the decision to stop using them and have moved to safer alternatives, such as first-generation baits which break down quicker. It was a straightforward change we could make quickly, at no extra cost, without affecting rodent control on site.”

Recent research has found anticoagulant rodenticides in Australian wildlife, including threatened carnivorous marsupials such as the Northern Quoll, adding to national concern about their environmental impact.

Edith Cowan University Associate Professor Dr Robert Davis said: “Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides are highly persistent and can accumulate in animals that consume poisoned rodents.

“Reducing their use where practical can help lower the risk of secondary poisoning for native predators and scavengers.”

BirdLife Australia CEO Kate Millar said: “SGARs have been detected in a wide range of native birds and wildlife, particularly in owls and other birds of prey that feed on rodents.

“Steps taken to reduce the use of these high-risk rodenticides will contribute to better outcomes for native birds.”

Fortescue will continue to review and monitor alternative rodent management methods as part of its ongoing environmental management program.