REPORT: Supporting control of Non-PF2050 ...

Identifying tools and knowledge gaps to support the control of non-PF2050-targeted small mammalian predators: stakeholder perceptions of priority needs

July 2019

Jones C. 2019. Identifying tools and knowledge gaps to support the control of non-PF2050-targeted small mammalian predators: stakeholder perceptions of priority needs. LC3567. 20 p.

ABSTRACT

In a move to enhance information sharing in vertebrate pest management, a Small Mammal Research Collective consisting of representatives of key stakeholder groups was established in 2017 under the New Zealand’s Biological Heritage National Science Challenge (the Bioheritage Challenge). A key function of the Collective is to support research into near-term improvements in small mammal control. An initial focus on tools and their strategic application has subsequently fed into the prioritisation process for the Department of Conservation’s ‘Tools to Market’ investment.

To align with the priority-setting in the Tools to Market process, ‘tools’ are classified as devices (e.g. traps, toxin dispensers), toxins, lures, monitoring devices, and supporting technologies. They may include: • new tools for predator control, eradication, monitoring, and data management • new tools for ‘scaling up’ the suppression of predators in the landscape • current tools that could be applied in new situations or environments • current tools that could be improved to substantially lift their contribution to controlling or eradicating small mammalian predators.

A Collective workshop in September 2018 considered that although the Predator Free 2050 (PF2050) goals are being addressed through several research programmes, other research needs and wider tool development for different species – particularly those for small mammal predators that fall outside the scope of PF2050 – are not as well-resourced and could benefit from a collective approach.