The Guardian recently reported that scientists are conducting experiments to control the populations of wildlife species such as pigeons and wild boars. These measures include administering birth control to prevent the overpopulation of these animals.
There is growing interest in whether birth control can also affect animal population control.
According to the report, experts are looking to fill special feeders and bait boxes with hazelnut spreads and grains laced with contraceptives. In the UK, the population of invasive species like gray squirrels is rising, posing threats to native species and causing forest damage.
Authorities estimate an annual timber loss in England and Wales of 37 million pounds ($51 million).
Scientists are distributing food containing oral contraceptives in feeders that are gray squirrels specific.
Dr. Marco Pellizzari, a veterinary scientist, feeds pigeons corn containing contraceptives daily. Meanwhile, in other parts of Europe, specialized feeders are used to administer contraceptives to wild boars, which has proven to be an effective method.
In the United States, contraceptives are sprayed on wild horses, and African elephants in Kruger National Park are receiving contraceptive injections.
Experts have concluded that these methods are more humane and efficient than traditional methods such as hunting.
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