HOW IT WORKS: Aluminum Phosphide Photo Album
- Aluminum Phosphide comes in pellet form. The pellets are about the size of a small grape.
- Aluminum Phosphide reacts with the moisture in the soil and the atmosphere to produce a lethal phosphine gas that is toxic to all mammals. This gas is colorless and heavier than air with a pungent odor.
HOW TO USE IT:
1. Treat all active burrows. When many are present, drag the field or fill burrow openings with soil to determine which burrows are active. Treat all burrows that are opened within 24 hours.
2. Be sure to use safety equipment so wear at least thick gloves and a mask before working with this product.
3. Drop 2-4 pellets into the squirrel burrow.
4. Stuff in a wad of newspaper. This is important in keeping the soil from smothering the pellets
5. Cover the hole with sod or dirt to seal the gas in the burrow.
SAFETY:
There has been some controversy as far as what clothing should be required when handling this material. When handled properly, gloves and work clothes should be sufficient. In studies on this material, the greatest problems with contamination occurred from lack of strict adherence to the handling guidelines. For more complete protection, wear a protective disposable suit. Wash any clothing worn during Aluminum Phosphide application.
WHERE TO GET IT:
Available at an agricultural chemical dealer.
You must have a restricted use permit to purchase and use this material.
Worker safety is important. Follow the label carefully.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
Be aware of endangered species considerations. The DPR Endangered Species Project is a good source of information.
Do not fumigate in burrows under or near buildings.