Current methods for the control of possums, primarily aerial broadcasting of sodium fluoroacetate (i.e. “1080”), are often at odds with the needs of rural Māori communities. Large-scale aerial broadcasting can lead to widespread, indiscriminate by-kill of native and introduced animals important to the environmental, cultural, and economic well-being of rural Māori.
This research project aims to provide completely new information of much higher quality than is currently available. This information will underpin development of new strategies for the management of possums.