Study finds pollution from flea treatment in the New Forest pools

29/02/2024

A study has found that a the common insecticide used in ‘spot-on’ flea treatments, imidacloprid, was detected at four waterbody locations where dogs have access. At one site  the levels were nearly double the internationally agreed toxicity threshold for aquatic invertebrates.

Previous research have shown that prolonged exposure to imidaclopridthese chemicals can negatively impact dragonfly larvae and other aquatic insects.

Prof Russell Wynn of Wild New Forest says: “Although there is growing awareness of the pervasive nature of these chemicals in English rivers, we suspect that most dog-walkers will be unaware of the potential impacts of allowing their dog to enter the water here in the New Forest. We hope that by collecting and openly sharing these data we can raise awareness amongst the community and start a positive discussion about less harmful alternatives”.

Image by Victor Ochieng