WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN) is urgently warning the public against the excessive use of poison to control stray dogs or other animals following the discovery of six dead caracaras, including three juveniles.
The Ministry said it is deeply concerned about the consequences that the indiscriminate use of poison can have on Curaçao’s native flora and fauna.
GMN acknowledged that stray and roaming dogs can cause serious problems, including attacks on livestock, property and other animals. However, the Ministry stressed that poison is an extremely dangerous method of dealing with the problem and can cause serious and often irreversible damage to the environment.
According to GMN, poison does not affect only the animal that someone intends to eliminate. Wildlife, birds of prey and domestic animals can also become victims.
The six dead caracaras are a particular concern because poisoning can spread through the food chain. An animal that consumes poison can subsequently be eaten by another animal, causing secondary poisoning and creating a chain reaction that can threaten several species.
The Ministry also warned that poison can pose a direct risk to people. Toxic substances left in the environment can potentially expose children, adults and pets that unknowingly come into contact with them.
GMN is therefore urging residents experiencing problems with stray or feral dogs, particularly when livestock is being attacked, not to resort to poison. Instead, cases should be reported to the appropriate authorities so that the situation can be assessed and a safer and more responsible solution can be found.
The Ministry emphasized that every species plays a role within Curaçao’s ecosystem and that irresponsible poison use can cause environmental damage far beyond the problem it was originally intended to address.
GMN is particularly asking residents not to place, leave behind or use poisonous substances in locations accessible to people or other animals.
“Protecting our nature is a responsibility we all share,” the Ministry said.