Improving the outcomes of using canid pest ejectors to manage wild dogs in peri-urban environments

Abstract

The use of lethal control techniques to mitigate the impacts of wild dogs (Canis familiaris), particularly in urban environments, can be complex and is often influenced by a variety of external factors. However, wild dog control is sometimes necessary for the prevention of, or in response to, negative impacts to livestock, native wildlife, pets, and people. Canid pest ejectors (CPEs) were registered for use in Australia in 2016 and are available for the control of peri-urban wild dogs, using either PAPP or 1080 toxin, where regulations permit. To understand and improve deployment strategies, we assessed wild dog, fox, and non-target species interactions with CPEs in peri-urban regions. Using modelling techniques, we determined when and how often GPS-tracked wild dogs would have encountered CPEs when deployed at varying densities. Then, field trials were conducted with CPEs deployed continuously for twelve months across five sites on the Sunshine Coast or Gympie regions. Interactions and activations of CPEs were monitored with camera traps. Finally, a CPE capsule toxin degradation trial was conducted to determine if 1080 and PAPP capsules remained sufficiently toxic when not activated and continually deployed over a two-year period. This paper will provide a brief overview of the results of these trials, including assessments of target and non-target species interactions with CPEs, and discuss recommended deployment strategies for their optimal and safe use.