IDENTIFICATION OF PESTICIDE POISONING IN WILDLIFE

The Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme investigates incidents of s uspected poisoning of wildlife (also honey bees and companion animals) by pesticides in the United Kingdom. The approach to these investigat ions has evolved over the past 30 years. Field investigations, post-mo rtem examinations, toxicological data and experience of previous poiso ning incidents assist in the selection and interpretation of appropria te chemical analyses. Several 'multi-residue' and several 'individual compound' analytical methods for pesticides in wildlife are currently in use; these are described.