Rittenhouse Square's Silent Spring 2004
Philly1.Com/Weekly Press/UC Review present Rittenhouse Square's Silent Spring. Since October of 2003, The City of Philadelphia has used a neurotoxin, Bromethalin, to control the rodent population in Rittenhouse Square. Bromethalin has no known antidote and causes seizure, brain swelling and death. These effects can be passed along to predatory birds like owls and hawks who feed on dead or dying rodents, as well as preening pigeons and inquisitive companion animals. Non-target animals like the North American Grey Squirrel population have been decimated in the park due to this form of vector control. Many fear that the children who use the park to play might too be at risk. While the EPA has not specifically approved the use of Bromethalin in public parks, the City feels it has no choice but to use the substance. By any standard, the rat population is out-of-control. Philly1.Com understands the difficulties of vector control in an urban environment, however, we do encourage the City to consider alternative means in multi-use public spaces such as Rittenhouse Square. Interviewed are Rittenhouse Square resident and anti-poison activist, Heliana Murray, Howard Wellens VMD, as well as Barbara Riebman and Ronnie Warm of the Mobilization for Animals - PA.
Fore more information call Mobilization for Animals - PA: 1.866.6ANIMAL
Visit Mobilization for Animals-PA on the web http://wildlifeprotection.net/