Evaluating Odour Attractants for Control of Wild Dogs

Abstract

Attractants (odours) were assessed for their ability to attract wild dogs (dingoes, feral dogs or their hybrids) in field trials over three levels of population density and four life-cycle behaviour 'seasons'. Visitation rates and the elicited behaviour responses were recorded for eight attractant formulations. Population density exhibited no reliable effect on odour attractiveness. Seasonal factors were shown to influence the attractiveness of specific attractants. The combination of attractiveness and the correct behavioural response towards specific odour-based control devices are discussed.