What is a risk associated with misused anticoagulant rodenticides?

• A. Immediate death of pests only
• B. No risk to any other species
• C. Secondary poisoning of non-target wildlife
• D. Encourages rodent reproduction

Answer: (C)

The main idea is that misusing anticoagulant rodenticides can cause secondary poisoning of wildlife that did not ingest the bait directly. These poisons work by blocking vitamin K, leading to uncontrolled bleeding. Death can be delayed, and if a predator or scavenger eats a rodent that has ingested the bait, the toxin can accumulate in the predator as well. When rods are used improperly, more bait is left exposed or accessible, increasing the chances that non-target animals—like raptors, foxes, or even pets that chase or scavenge—will encounter poisoned prey or the bait itself.

That’s why the correct choice highlights the risk to non-target wildlife through secondary poisoning. The idea that there is immediate death of pests only is not accurate, since the poisoning can be delayed and can affect other species. The option stating there’s no risk to any other species is false, and anticoagulant use does not promote rodent reproduction; it aims to reduce pest populations, not increase them.