Behaviour of a natural rabbit population poisoned with '1080'

Abstract

The poisoning of a natural rabbit population with sodium fluoroacetate ("1080") at the height of the breeding season is described. Observations were made from a hide for a total period of 72 hours spread over 13 days. Preliminary feeding with unpoisoned bait appeared to change both the pattern and timing of the rabbits' activities and to increase progressively their confidence towards both bait and furrow. A satisfactory kill was obtained despite the presence of lush pasture. The composition of the survi~ingg roup is discussed and means of improving efficiency of poisoning suggested.