John Gamblin has asked me to forward this information. Apparently some
members have asked for this. More data can be found on the following
site:
http://www.mlrapcb.net/pest_fox.htm
From John:
10 important steps for FOX BAITING
1. Read the Instructions for Use
∑ 1080 is an extremely toxic poison that can kill most animals,
including humans. It is in your (and the communityís) interest to use
it wisely, safely and legally. Other sources of information include
safety directions and warnings on the label and the Material Safety
Data Sheet (MSDS).
2. Store your baits in a safe, clearly labelled, sealable container
Dogs in particular are at risk from poorly stored 1080 baits.NOTE: dogs
may exhibit "unusual" behaviour to get at baits (eg. jump into ute cabs
etc). Bait containers should be stored in a secure area away from
household foods, children and pets.
3. Advise your neighbours
It is a legal requirement that you notify your neighbour one week
before putting out baits (and tell them how long the program will run
and what type of bait will be used). Remember, POISON LAID signs must
be put up before any baits are laid.
Advising your neighbours is a good way to encourage them to join the
baiting program. Group baiting offers the best long term results.
4. Restrain your dogs during the entire baiting program
1080 is lethal to dogs and the baits are highly attractive to dogs.
Keep dogs tied up or muzzled at all times baits are likely to be
present in the paddock. Make sure you advise your neighbour of the
risks to their dogs in step 3.
5. Place baits at least 500 m apart
Baits placed too close together may result in one fox taking many baits
or baits being cached (hidden).If fox numbers are high, it is better to
keep replacing well-spaced baits rather than putting out more baits
closer together. Cached baits pose a risk to dogs after the completion
of program.
6. Bury baits
Baits should be shallow-buried (up to 5 cm). This reduces potential
off-target take by birds and other animals.Foxes have an extremely good
sense of smell; theyíll find the bait. Relocate baits that show signs
of off-target species visiting the site.
7. Mark bait stations
(ie where baits buried)
Mark with ribbon, tape, pegs etc. This will help you check and replace
baits once taken or disintegrated, and assist in removing them at the
end of the program.
8. Check and replace baits until bait-take drops off
Foxes are highly mobile ñ you may kill resident foxes, but others may
move in almost immediately.Keep replacing baits for at least 2-3 weeks
or until bait take drops off. Programs run for less than a month are
likely to be of short-term benefit only.
9. Pick up and dispose of baits once program is finished
Although the 1080 in the baits will eventually break down naturally, it
is a requirement that remaining baits be picked up and all uneaten and
unused baits disposed of by burning or deep burial.
10. Keep signs up for 14 days after baiting is finished
At certain times of the year, foxes may cache food, including
baits.Birds can also move baits, especially if they have not been
buried.Continue to restrain dogs after the end of a baiting program as
a precaution, until you can be sure that all baits are gone or those
remaining are no longer toxic to dogs.
Fox Control Programs in South Australia
by Vicki Linton, Animal and Plant Control Commission
Birding-Aus is on the Web at
www.shc.melb.catholic.edu.au/home/birding/index.html
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