Dried meat baits: best practices

Placing baits on racks

Spread baits evenly across the netting promptly after cutting as moist meat deteriorates rapidly when cut. Do not allow baits to touch as this prevents uniform drying and provides an environment for blowflies to lay eggs. It is important that baits dry quickly; leave for around two days. Dried baits should be dark coloured, hard on the outside and weigh 40% of their original weight.

Wild dog targeted for baiting.

When pressed firmly dried baits can still give slightly but there should be a definite hard outer layer. Only hard well-dried baits should be used because:

• They pose less risk to small non-target animals.
• There is less possibility of 1080 leaching out in rain.
• They can better withstand weathering.
• They will not rot before being laid and are less likely to go mouldy.
• It will be more difficult for ants to eat through to the softer centres.
• Sand and other matter will not stick to dry baits.

• Only prepare enough baits for immediate use and do not store baits for extended periods. Temporarily store dried baits in containers which allow air to circulate freely around them, such as onion bags. Baits must be labelled and stored in a locked room or shed. Do not store baits and foodstuffs together.