The success of the program is most dependent on how many get involved, how dispersed they are in target areas and how effectively they keep up the effort, even though at times it will seem like nothing is happening.
The core components of the program will be:
- Establishing a network and grid
- Setting traps appropriate to location and user
- Setting bait station appropriate to location and user
- Monitoring trap rates and trap and bait ‘status’
The Program has three main parts:
Trapping, Baiting and Monitoring
Trapping
There are several different types of traps available and we will likely use a variety of traps, all of which are humane kill approved. The Doc 200 is favoured for all species other than possums though there are other traps – both cheaper and more expensive. Great care will be taken to ensure that traps are safe for children and pets and the trap design also looks to minimise any by-kill of non target species.
Poisoning
I understand the resistance to using poisons but there is simply no better alternative for a significant impact – in addition some pests just won’t enter trap stations (I have a rat who I have spotted several times gleefully running right by the tasty morsels waiting for him in 2 completely different traps).
I am consulting with experts in this area to ascertain the best poison baits to use and their placement/ containment, rest assured there will be extreme care and caution in this area.
Monitoring
A example of possible/preferred traplines is shown here and in larger format here
– this will of course depend on collaboration and engagement, but the main point is it gives an idea of the scale of effort needed.
The monitoring is as much about ensuring participants maintain traps and bait stations. A gap in the grid undermines everyone else’s efforts.
Back of a postage stamp costings show it is about $1000 per km to set up traping and baiting lines.
The concept is to enclose (to prevent escape) and exclude (to prevent entry). The final grid will depend on who gets involved.
Monitoring also gives us the best feedback on what works – types of lures, baits, types of traps etc. The whole program is a learning process, and we need to be constantly one step ahead of these predators to win the war, intelligence from monitoring is one of the key tools.
Frequently asked questions
We know there will be many many questions around various aspects of this program. an initial list of these is to be found here
Predator Free Urban HB 