Research, development and registration of new toxins, and alternative delivery systems

Abstract

Over the last three decades, considerable effort has been put into improving and refining the use of sodium fluoroacetate (1080). Its use in New Zealand comes under considerable scrutiny. Whilst there are no “silver bullet” replacements for 1080 a suite of effective and acceptable tools are being developed to reduce over-reliance on 1080 or brodifacoum, and to provide greater flexibility. Research on the relative humaneness, persistence and secondary poisoning risk associated with several new toxins and bait formulations will be presented alongside details relating to their registration status in New Zealand. Significant advances have been made in the last 12 months with the registration of a cyanide pellet (Feratox®), a low dose cholecalciferol bait, para-aminopropiophenone, sodium nitrite and zinc phosphide (MZP). Full registration of microencapsulated zinc phosphide (MZP) for possums, para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) for stoats, Feratox® for Bennett’s wallabies, solid diphacinone bait and a low dose cholecalciferol paste is nearly complete. For example, for PAPP, the final assessment was made by the New Zealand Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA) in February 2011. Registration of the trade name product for PAPP is now awaiting finalisation following confirmation of ERMA approval. Following on from new toxin and product registrations a new focus will increasingly be on species specific resetting toxin delivery systems to complement conventional baits.