OvoControl G Registered for Ducks

RANCHO SANTA FE, Calif. — Innolytics announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has granted registration for OvoControl G use in domestic mallard ducks, domestic Muscovy ducks and hybrids thereof. The new product controls egg hatchability and essentially represents non-hormonal oral contraception for birds.

Resident ducks can be problematic in many different urban landscapes - parks, zoos, hotels and subdivisions are typical examples of sites which enjoy some ducks but not "too many". In Florida, Muscovy ducks are considered endemic and have been labeled "invasive and exotic pests" by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission ("FFWCC"). Once established, the birds can breed relentlessly and exclude habitat from native birds.

"Domestic ducks are not protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act ("MBTA") and protection is limited to state laws prohibiting animal cruelty," said Dr. John Hadidian, director of Urban Wildlife from the Humane Society of the United States. "OvoControl is a contraceptive which can help control the population growth of ducks."

Hadidian added that, "Florida is one of the most impacted states, especially with Muscovy ducks. OvoControl G provides communities with a safe and humane new tool to help manage the population of birds."

Originally developed for use in resident Canada geese, OvoControl G represents yet another component in an integrated program for goose and duck management. In combination with other mitigation measures, OvoControl G can provide a more comprehensive and effective, long-term control program.

For more information visit www.hatchcontrol.com.