The Animal Medical Center has posted an alert that someone is using a very
toxic insecticide with carbofuran (Furadan) to poison pidgeons.  It is left
in bread in areas where people feed the birds.  The birds die instantly - 1
dog has been confirmed as having been exposed to it and he died in 1-2
minutes.  Two red-tailed hawks have been killed as well.  It is estimated
that as little as 7 drops can kill a human being - 4-5 drops can kill a
child and obviously less will kill a dog, cat, or ferret.  The poison has
been discovered in French Bread but other bait is possible.  PLEASE DO NOT
LET YOUR ANIMALS GET NEAR OR CONSUME ANY FOOD ON THE STREET.  Atropine is
the antidote but it is unlikely that an animal would survive long enough for
it to be administered.  If you see anyone or anything suspicious, please
call Dr. Michael S.  Garvey, Hosp Director 212 838-8100 or ASPCA Dept of
Humane Enforcement 212-876-7700.
 
[Moderator's note: Seems to be true, though the warning first went out
about an year ago -- don't know if it's stil an issue.  Police were more
or less agressively trying to track it down.  BIG]
[Posted in FML issue 2306]