What are barbiturates used for in wildlife control?

Barbiturates are primarily utilized in wildlife control as sedatives, and they can also have lethal effects depending on the dosage administered. In this context, they are often employed to calm or incapacitate animals for various purposes, such as relocation or euthanasia. Their sedative properties allow for a more humane and controlled approach when dealing with wildlife that poses a nuisance. By sedating an animal, handlers can ensure their safety and the safety of the animal during the capture and relocation process. Additionally, using barbiturates in a lethal dose can facilitate euthanasia in cases where an animal cannot be rehabilitated or poses significant risks to the public or ecosystem. Thus, their role in wildlife control encompasses both sedation and, when necessary, a swift and humane means of ending an animal's life.