Water Hemlock Poisoning

Just last week we were again reminded about the danger of hemlock poisoning. Every year we diagnose about six or more animals. This time the victim was a yearling llama who was found dead with evidence of a violent or convulsive death. We were able to find a piece of the deadly bulb in his stomach.

Nearly all of the deaths associated with this plant occur in the fall and winter months. This is because the bulb of the plant is the most toxic and when the grass is short, animals are nibbling close to the ground. Also as the ground freezes and thaws the bulbs tend to "pop up" and are exposed above the surface.

Water Hemlock is always found with "one foot in the water", so it will always be right on the edge of a ditch or pond. Spring and summer, when the leafy parts of the plant can be identified, are times for control. While brood leaf weed sprays are effective, often it is best to dig up the entire plant and dispose of it.

Animals found very soon after ingesting the bulbs can sometimes be treated successfully.

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