A coordinated baiting program using 1080 is the most cost-effective option for broadscale reduction of large pest populations of wild dogs, feral pigs and foxes. This is also the case for rabbits in specific areas where rabbit haemorrhagic disease and myxomatosis are not active or crops are under pressure from rabbits.

Baiting can only be carried out under specific conditions, and property size and proximity to built-up areas are two key considerations.

Once baiting has reduced the pest population, follow-up control using trapping, shooting and destruction of the pests' refuge can further reduce numbers and limit its capability of quickly reinvading.

Strychnine, pindone, zinc phosphide and commercial anticoagulants may all be used for particular pest species in certain situations.

1080

1080 or sodium fluoroacetate is found naturally in about 30 species of Australian plants, including heart leaf poison bush (Gastrolobium grandiflorum). Consequently, native animal species have developed a level of evolutionary tolerance to the chemical and are generally less susceptible to its effects than introduced species.

1080 is registered for the control of wild dogs, feral pigs, rabbits and foxes. It is the most efficient, economical and species-selective chemical currently available for pest animal control in Australia.

The use of 1080 in Queensland is strictly managed by the Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries and Queensland Health. Landowners should contact their local government or Land Protection Officer for details of coordinated 1080 baiting programs in their area.

Strychnine

Strychnine is an extract from seeds of Strychnos plant species. It is a fast-acting chemical registered for wild dog and fox control.

The use of strychnine is strictly regulated, and landowners are required to obtain a permit from Queensland Health before they can obtain, possess or use the chemical.

Zinc phosphide

Zinc phosphide is available as a commercial product for the control of mice in crops. Other anticoagulant chemicals are registered for mouse control in sheds and domestic situations. Users of commercial chemicals should always read the label instructions and strictly adhere to directions.

Pindone

Pindone is an anticoagulant registered for rabbit control. Pindone is not recommended as a broadacre rabbit poison, but is effective in controlling rabbits close to farm buildings and near urban areas where 1080 cannot be used.