EPA revises the interim decision to use the M-44 cyanide ejection device
The M-44 is a trap typically deployed to kill animals that prey on livestock or endangered species. It is a mechanism that is pounded into the ground and baited with a smelly lure. When an animal tugs on the bait, the spring-loaded device delivers a lethal dose of sodium cyanide into the animal’s mouth; the animal dies within 1 to 5 minutes.
The device is controversial. In Idaho, an M-44 temporarily blinded a child and killed three family dogs in two incidents in 2017. That same year, an M-44 set in Oregon accidentally killed a wolf. In response, Idaho maintains a moratorium on M-44 use on public lands, and earlier this month, Oregon passed legislation banning them in the state.