Influence of 1080 bait colour on acceptability by target species and removal by non-target animals.

Abstract

Baiting trials with meat and carrot baits poisoned with Compound 1080 were carried out on the periphery of three National Parks in New South Wales. The number of meat baits removed by birds was variable, but averaged 28% (+ 11). Colouring the meat baits green significantly reduced the number takenby birds, but did not affect their attractiveness to dogs and foxes. Poisoned carrot dyed green was as effectwe as undyed carrot in controlling rabbits. Reduction in rabbit populations using quarter concentration 1080 (0.083 mg 1080/ g of carrot) was comparable to that from usmg the standard concentration 1080 (0.333 mg 1080/ g of carrot). The use of lower concentration of 1080 in poisoning rabbits is more acceptable ecologically as it may reduce the risk of primary and secondary poisoning of non-target fauna.