Predicted susceptability of Dasyurus geoffroii to canid baiting programmes: variation due to sex, season and bait type

Abstract

A laboratory assessment of the susceptibility of Dasyurus geoffroii to baits used to control foxes and dingoes was conducted using five types of non-poisoned baits: polony, fresh meat, meat dried by 50% and 70% of the original weight, and compressed beef crackle. Trials were designed to simulate the initial encounter of a bait by hungry wild juveniles and adults of both sexes, including lactating females. In overnight trials, juveniles and lactating females ate significantly more fresh meat per body weight (mean consumption: 23.7% for juvenile males, 21.5% for juvenile females, 23.1% for lactating females) than non-lactating adult females and adult males (combined mean, 18.3%). Maximum overnight bait consumption was 43% of body weight. These values greatly exceed those previously reported for other species of Dasyurus. Moist baits were eaten more rapidly and in larger amounts than drier baits. Seasonal factors lead to the prediction that the period when canid baiting can be conducted with the least danger to Dasyurus geoffroii is January-March.