New Zealand Plant Protection 56 (2003): 71-76
An evaluation of two long-life baits containing diphacinone for the control of ferrets (Mustela furo)
J.G. Ross and R.J. Henderson
ABSTRACT
Two long-life baits (gel and polymer) were developed by Pest-Tech Ltd. and tested on captive ferrets. The palatability of both baits was significantly enhanced using 'natural' animal extracts, with extract palatability ranked in order of decreasing consumption as rabbit=chicken>hare=rat>fish. Final bait formulations (with animal extracts) ranked in order of decreasing consumption were gel=polymer>Pestoff™ ferret paste. The response of ferrets to gel bait containing diphacinone was highly variable, with males significantly more susceptible than females. Accordingly, large doses of diphacinone will be required to kill most ferrets in the field. In conclusion, both gel and polymer baits were superior to Pestoff™ ferret paste and have good potential for ferret control.
Keywords: ferret control, Mustela furo, diphacinone.
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