What is a consequence of baiting with regards to non-target organisms?

Baiting can indeed pose a risk to non-target organisms, which include children and pets. When chemical baits are used in pest management, they are often attractive not only to the intended target species, such as rodents or insects but also to other organisms that might accidentally ingest them. This unintended consumption can lead to poisoning or harm to these non-target organisms, making safety a crucial concern in the application of baits.

While some may assume that baits are less likely to be eaten or that they only attract specific target species, this does not account for the behavior of other animals in the vicinity. Moreover, claiming that baiting has no significant risk to non-targets overlooks the potential for adverse effects, which is a key consideration in responsible pest control practices. Recognizing these risks is vital for ensuring the safety of not only the intended pest species control but also the greater environment in which these baits are used.