Forest and Bird says that the decision by the Animal Health Board to proceed with a 1080 possum control drop in the Blue Mountains (Southland) is the right one.

“Ground control for possums only works in certain areas,” says Eric Pyle, Forest and Bird’s Conservation Manager. “Aerial 1080 is the only effective possum control tool in rugged areas of New Zealand.”

To reduce possum numbers to the low levels needed to protect our forests, wildlife and control Tb aerial 1080 is needed. “The fact that no contractors could be found to do ground control work in the Blue Mountains highlights the limits of ground-based control,” said Mr Pyle.

“1080 is a key pest control tool. Its benefits to conservation are substantial, its risks are very small,” said Mr Pyle.

Ends

© Scoop Media