Poisonings with chlordane and dieldrin in New York State in the 21st century

Chlordane and dieldrin were used in the United States for over 25 years for a variety of uses, particularly as a soil treatment. In addition to agricultural uses, they were used extensively to control beetle larvae (grubs) and... [ view full abstract ]

Chlordane and dieldrin were used in the United States for over 25 years for a variety of uses, particularly as a soil treatment. In addition to agricultural uses, they were used extensively to control beetle larvae (grubs) and ants on turf, and for termite protection around building foundations. Non termiticide uses were banned nationwide in 1975. All remaining uses were finally banned in 1987. Both are is very persistent in undisturbed soil, with a half lives of up to several years. In areas where chlordane was used extensively, insecticide resistant strains of beetles evolved. Birds and other animals which consume soil dwelling invertebrates may accumulate hazardous levels of chlordane metabolites and dieldrin in their tissues. Hawks, owls and other predators in turn are threatened by consuming the invertebrate eaters. Despite the passage of time and presumed decline in soil levels, wildlife mortality has continued in parts of New York State. From 2009 through 2015, 56 poisoning cases were documented in a variety of species including 28 Cooper’s hawks (Accipiter cooperi), 9 red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), 4 great horned owls (Bubo virginianus), 2 Peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), 2 eastern bluebirds (Sialis sialia) and 5 striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis). Most of the cases originated in urban/suburban locations, many on Long Island (n = 20) and in the Albany area (n = 15). Diagnosticians need to be aware of the possibility of poisoning with these pesticides when examining vulnerable species from areas of likely historic use, particularly in late spring through mid-summer.