Pest control: NZers more worried about contamination than suffering

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2026-02-27 08:43

New Zealand

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When it comes to killing invasive mammals in Aotearoa, we're more concerned about environmental harm than animal suffering, a new survey shows. Researchers asked over 4000 people to choose between pest control options based on costs, environmental contamination, pain for target animals, and risks to other animals. Respondents were most concerned about effects on the environment and other animals, but became less concerned about all of the factors if the goal was eradicating rather than suppressing the invasive species. The study authors suggest limiting environmental effects should be the priority for pest eradication tools, and that differences between groups could help in planning local campaigns - like prioritising humane options in urban areas, where people are more concerned about animal suffering.