Our pest control methods

Introduction

Our pest control methods, including 1080, possum fur recovery, ground control and Vespex wasp bait are essential for the survival of many native species and ecosystems.

Highlights

We use a range of pest control methods, depending on the scale and urgency of the pest problem, the type of pest, and the accessibility of the area being treated.

    1080

    1080

    DOC uses biodegradable 1080 to protect native species from introduced pests like possums, rats and stoats.
    Wasp control using Vespex

    Wasp control using Vespex

    Vespex is a targeted wasp bait that can be purchased from Merchento by approved users.
    Ground control for pests

    Ground control for pests

    Traps and bait stations are used to target specific pests such as stoats, rats and hedgehogs.
    Possum fur recovery and bounties

    Possum fur recovery and bounties

    Possum fur recovery doesn't reduce possum numbers enough to allow the recovery of forests and native species.

    Research into alternative and new pest control methods

    DOC and TBfree New Zealand jointly spend more than $2 million a year working with universities, crown research institutes and private companies to develop new methods of pest control. This work includes:

    • trials to refine the use of 1080 and reduce the amount of toxin needed for effective control
    • alternative species-specific toxins 
    • a toxin that specifically targets the gut of possums, minimising the risks to other species
    • self-setting traps that deliver a more efficient trap and big labour savings.
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