State government-backed research has shown the optimum 1080 aerial delivery rate of 40 baits per linear kilometre will eliminate more than 90 per cent of wild dogs, reducing their impact on agriculture, native wildlife and the environment.
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Department of Primary Industries [DPI] principal research scientist Peter Fleming said the research was conducted at the request of the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority [APVMA], who needed scientific data to support their bait rate.
"Around 90.6 per cent of the wild dogs exposed to aerial baiting at 40 baits per kilometre died, compared to just 55.3 per cent at the 10 baits per kilometre rate," Mr Fleming said.
"From 2007 to 2013, 132 wild dogs were trapped and fitted with GPS collars, and tracked before and after baiting in north-eastern NSW.
"The study compared the two bait rates by quantifying the mortality rate of wild dogs in aerial baiting areas, and success was measured by the number of GPS-collared dogs which did not survive."
"We are confident in recommending aerial baiting at a rate of 40 baits per linear kilometre to minimise wild dog numbers in areas where they impact the environment and community along the Great Dividing Range."
Previous research has shown wild dog management programs need to reduce populations by at least 75 per cent to successfully manage the negative impacts of wild dogs.
NSW DPI advises managers use follow-up control measures, including trapping and shooting, to keep wild dog numbers at acceptable levels.
