SECOND GENERATION ANTICOAGULANT RODENTICIDES with brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difenacoum, or difethialone remain active in poisoned rodents for days, exposing predators( bobcats, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and even alligators. Removing these compounds from the island is the most immediate way to protect wildlife.
ACCORDING TO KEATING, bobcat exposure to rodenticides spikes during tourism season, when homeowners apply poisons unnecessarily. Educating rental companies and homeowners to Kiawah’ s wildlife-safe practices can dramatically reduce harmful rodenticide use.
THE COMMUNITY’ S PLEDGE played a central role in the original recovery. Renewing participation— whether as a homeowner, business, or pest-management partner— helps maintain island-wide momentum. The model has already expanded to Seabrook and Hilton Head Islands.
Right: Bobcat researcher Meghan Keating speaks to group at a recent event on Kiawah Island.
40 • CONSERVANCY OF THE SEA ISLANDS