Flea treatments are turning our pets into an environmental hazard – there has to be a better way | Sophie Pavelle

Study from the University of Sussex reveals songbirds as latest victims.

Blue tits and great tits are two of many birds that line their nests with animal fur.

Every sampled nest contained fipronil and 89% contained imidacloprid and permethrin three insecticides so potent they have been banned for agricultural use in the UK and EU , but can be bought by anyone for use on pets.

Handwashing by owners in weeks after spot-on treatment is also a major contributor.

Regular grooming can detect parasites early, allowing for reactive treatment.

Washing pet bedding in hot water every few weeks and vacuuming sleeping areas help eliminate flea eggs and larvae.

If your pet does require treatment, please don’t let them enter watercourses at all.