How many baits?
The recommended bait density for Western Australia is 5 baits/km² (that is, 5/100ha). Research, in this State, has shown that at this rate at least 80% of foxes should be killed but an increased bait density does not appear to increase the overall number of foxes killed. When areas of fox activity can be specifically targeted, fewer baits will be required. Information on 1080 registered bait products and the rates to be laid are described in the information sheet: Rates of lay for 1080 / strychnine products.
Where to lay baits
Individual baits should be placed at least 200m apart; otherwise one fox may find and eat more than one bait. Baits should be laid at strategic points (see map) including:
- where fox tracks are regularly seen
- along water courses, tracks and at fencelines where foxes regularly travel
- at prominent points within paddocks (jutting corners, rock piles, posts)
- under or near carcasses visited by foxes.
Refer to directions for use to ensure that requirements such as minimum distances from boundaries are met.
How to lay baits
The position of all baits should be marked with marker tape, pegs or something similar so they are easy to recover as required, at the end of the control campaign.
In areas where there are farms and reserves near closely settled areas, meat baits should be:
- buried about 10-20mm below the soil surface to reduce the risk of poisoning non-target animals that seldom dig for baits, or
- tethered by a length of light wire or similar to prevent them being moved (for example, by birds).
In areas where there are typical rural properties with low numbers of people, meat baits can be buried, tethered or hidden under vegetation, small rocks or fallen timber so that birds cannot see them.
In all areas, egg baits should always be buried 20-100mm below the soil surface to decrease hazards to non-target animals.
Improving the percentage of baits taken
- individual baits should be available to foxes for about 10 days
- check baits at least every two days to assess ‘take’
- if a fox takes a bait, keep replacing it until no more are removed
- relocate uneaten baits to areas where others have been taken.
Foxes more quickly locate baits laid on a scent trail that is broken between baits. Do not use a continuous scent trail as an individual fox can take and cache many baits.