In a recent announcement, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has prohibited the use of "cyanide bombs" on its lands. These small, spring-loaded traps baited with deadly poison were previously used to control predators and protect livestock in remote areas. The decision has been applauded by several environmental groups, who believe it will enhance the safety of both people and wildlife in public spaces.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the M-44 devices were responsible for the deaths of over 5,000 animals last year. They were deployed in ten states, including Wyoming, New Mexico, Colorado, and Nevada. However, their indiscriminate nature raised concerns among conservationists and the public alike.

Colette Adkins, the Carnivore Conservation program director at the Center for Biological Diversity, highlighted the dangers associated with these devices. She stated that "cyanide bombs" pose a threat not only to target animals like coyotes but also to innocent bystanders, endangered species, and even children. Adkins emphasized that they were too hazardous for use in public places and should be banned from all public lands.

The issue gained national attention in 2017 when a "cyanide bomb" tragically killed a family pet and injured a young boy in Idaho. Following this incident, several groups have been advocating for a ban on the use of M-44s on public lands.

With the BLM's recent move, the devices are now prohibited on all lands administered by the U.S. Interior Department. However, they are still allowed on U.S. Forest Service lands and in certain states. Adkins expressed her disappointment, stating that "cyanide bombs" caused over 150 unintentional animal deaths last year alone, as reported by the USDA. She urged wildlife agents to refrain from deploying them on any public lands, underscoring the need for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.

Adkins also emphasized that livestock producers have alternative predator control methods at their disposal. These include increasing human presence near herds and removing carcasses from grazing areas, offering more effective and less harmful strategies.

The ban on "cyanide bombs" marks a significant step towards protecting both wildlife and public safety on BLM lands. While the devices are still permitted in certain areas, advocates are hopeful that the U.S. Forest Service and other relevant agencies will follow suit in implementing similar restrictions. Public outcry against the use of these lethal traps continues to grow, with calls for a complete nationwide ban to prevent further unintentional animal deaths and tragic incidents.

This news article was produced by the Mountain West News Bureau in collaboration with Wyoming Public Media, Nevada Public Radio, Boise State Public Radio, KUNR, KUNC, and KANW, with support from affiliate stations across the region. Funding for the Mountain West News Bureau is provided in part by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.