Feather samples tested from five common species of garden birds were found to be contaminated with chemicals known to affect the brain and damage unborn chicks.
Permethrin, imidacloprid or fipronil are all insecticides that are banned for agricultural use but are still commonly found in pet flea treatment, sparking an open letter to the government.
"Systemic failures"
The letter, signed by veterinarians, wildlife experts and charities, spoke of "systemic failures in the regulation of veterinary medicine" with more than 80% of UK dogs and cats given flea treatment each year.
“Pet owners should feel confident that the products they use protect their pets,” read the letter, which was sent to environment secretary Emma Reynolds.
Banning flea treatment
The department has now started an eight-week consultation on banning dog and cat owners from buying treatment over the counter.
This comes in response to fears over the impact of this medication on fish and songbirds, once "spot on" treatments wash off into rivers and soil.
