The 'Spitfire' - Field trial results of a novel, resetting possum control device

Abstract

The sustained control of brushtail possums in large areas of mainland forest in New Zealand is costly and requires the repeat application of toxin or constant trapping. A high level of public opposition to aerial control with the toxin 1080 has led to the investigation of more targeted delivery of toxins. A multidisciplinary collaboration between ecologists, formulation experts and designers has led to the design of a resetting, possum specific toxin delivery device – the ‘Spitfire’. The aim of this device is to enable sustained control of possum populations and to reduce labour costs incurred from the need to check traps or bait stations repeatedly. The ‘Spitfire’ dispenses a measured dose of toxic gel onto the abdomen of possums which they then groom off and ingest. The device excludes access to non-target species through to a series of triggers. Each device has the ability to fire over 100 times before requiring servicing and incorporates a long-life attractant. The first pilot trial has demonstrated considerable success with a reduction of possum abundance of over 90% and continued control during the reinvasion phase. Results from the first pilot trial and current trial will be presented.