Officials Warn The Illegal Pesticide, Carbofuran, Could Be Killing Bald Eagles in Maryland
OutdoorHub Reporters 05.14.19
Maryland is cracking down on the illegal pesticide called carbofuran after a string of bald eagles and an owl were found poisoned on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Authorities are investigating after seven bald eagles and a horned owl were found dead with traces of carbofuran in their systems. It’s believed the birds suffered from secondary poisoning from another animal the birds ate.
In response, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) issued an advisory reminder to “farmers, applicators, and retailers that the use and sale of carbofuran (also known as Furadan) is illegal under state and federal law.”
Carbofuran was banned in the U.S. back in 2009, however some farmers choose to continue use of the illegal chemical risking hefty fines, and even prison time.
The advisory states, “violators of Maryland’s Pesticide Applicator Laws are subject to a fine of up to $25,000 and/or prison. Violators may also be subject to further penalties from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).”
