The effect of ant activity on meat baits impregnated with sodium monofluoroacetate (Compound 1080) used for the control of dingoes and wild dogs.

Abstract

Wild dog and dingo baits impregnated with the toxin 1080 and exposed at two different sites in the field suffered significant reductions in weight compared with controls as a result of ant activity. In one case a bait was completely destroyed in five days, while others were reduced in weight by over 70% during the same period. Sun-drying of baits for 48h before laying did not significantly reduce damage by ants. Ant activity may detoxify baits before they are taken by wild dogs.