Bait Type Influences the Toxicity of Sodium Monofluoroacetate (Compound 1080) to Feral Pigs

Abstract

The toxicity of sodium monofluoroacetate (1080) to captive feral pigs was compared in wheat and pellet bait. Mortality following 4.34 mg 1080 kg-1 was significantly higher among pigs receiving 1080 in wheat bait (60%, 24/40) than in pellet bait (28%, 11/40, X*2=7.31, 1 d.f., P<O.05). There were no significant differences between pigs receiving each bait type in terms of time until vomiting began, frequency, mass of vomitus produced, or in time until death. The amount and concentration of 1080 in vomitus and the proportion of 1080 dose ejected were unrelated to bait type. Surviving pigs produced vomitus with a greater 1080 concentration but smaller mass than those that died. Bait type is an important determinant of the toxicity of 1080 to captive feral pigs and should be closely evaluated before specific bait types are used in the field.