Newtown Becomes Connecticut Leader in Protecting Birds of Prey

Our I-95 wildlife expert Jen the Zookeeper has exciting news about how Newtown, Connecticut is stepping up for birds of prey. Here is what she had to say about it.

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Newtown, Connecticut is stepping up for wildlife with a powerful new rule to protect birds of prey and it’s more than just an idea, it’s now official policy.

The town passed a law that bans the use of rodent poisons on all town-owned properties, like parks, schools, and public buildings. This means harmful chemicals that can poison hawks and owls are no longer allowed in those spaces. 

Why does that matter? Because when a mouse eats poison, it doesn’t just disappear. It becomes dangerous food. If a hawk or owl eats it, they can get sick or die too. The new law helps stop this chain reaction.

The rule does allow rare exceptions, but only if safer methods don’t work and even then, the health department must approve it. 

This makes Newtown a leader in Connecticut, especially since there’s no full statewide ban yet only partial restrictions on who can buy certain poisons. 

In short: Newtown’s new law protects the hunters that keep nature balanced. Fewer poisons = healthier hawks, owls, and ecosystems.

Jen the Zookeeper wants you to pass this information onto your town Officials, so that protection is eventually statewide!

Read More: Are You a Connecticut Family That Eats the Toad in the Hole?

More on Jen the Zookeeper 

Jen has spent more than 30 years immersed in the fields of animal care, conservation, and science education. As the former Director of Animal Care for the New Canaan Nature Center in Connecticut, she oversaw the care of native mammals, reptiles, and birds of prey while educating the public about the important roles these wild neighbors play in our ecosystem. Her experience also includes time with both the Bronx Zoo and the Los Angeles Zoo, where she focused on the care of African and Asian wildlife and helped teach visitors about the delicate balance between humans and natural habitats.

Later, while working at a wildlife sanctuary in Half Moon Bay, California, Jen played a key role in training and handling nearly 50 exotic species. She also developed educational programs for at-risk and foster youth, helping historically underserved kids build trust, confidence, and healing connections with the non-releasable animals at the sanctuary.

In addition to her extensive wildlife work, Jen has experience in horse and dog training, animal control, veterinary care, and all things conservation education. Today, she owns and operates Jen Kotkin Pet Care, where she provides personalized care, exercise, and enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, birds, and more.