Poisoning 
Although poisoned baits are effective and reasonably safe 
when used by experienced persons, they are not recommended for 
the general public. Most poisons are toxic to humans and animals 
and should be handled with care. However, should conditions make 
the use of poison necessary, the following method will produce 
results. Winter is the best time to expose poisoned baits, 
particularly when the ground is covered with snow, and natural 
feed is scarce. 
Prebaiting: Prebaiting with unpoisoned grain is important. 
Select a flat roof or other likely place where pigeons can be 
encouraged to feed. Distribute the bait sparingly at first. If 
pigeons are not attracted to the spot, try another place. Coarse 
scratch (poultry) feed, whole corn or a mixture of five parts 
whole corn to one part of wheat is usually acceptable under most 
conditions. However, observe their grain preference and be guided 
accordingly in mixing the poisoned bait. Prebaiting should be 
done, preferably by the same person with the same identifiable 
clothing, each day for a week or more. Follow with a liberal 
amount of poisoned material. 
Preparation of Poisoned Bait: Make a paste of one tablespoon 
of laundry starch in 1/2 cup of cold water; add 1-1/2 cups boiling 
water and stir until free of lumps; add 1 ounce powdered strychnine 
alkaloid, stir well. Apply to 8 quarts of corn-wheat bait or 12 
quarts whole corn. Shovel or stir. Spread out thinly and let dry. 
Place a "POISON" label on all containers. 
Caution: If other smaller birds, including songbirds, are 
attracted to the prebait, either shift to another location or use 
only whole corn, as the kernels are too large for them to eat. 
Note: This leaflet supersedes Wildlife Leaflet 254, revised 
July 1948. 
67643 
