1080 effects on livestock, game and fish
Introduction
Information about the effects of 1080 on livestock, game and fish.Livestock
We work with farmers that are adjacent to pest control operations to manage their stock. Buffer zones are put in place and livestock are mustered away from controlled drop areas until the all-clear is given.
OSPRI are responsible for eradicating bovine tuberculosis which is carried by possums and ferrets. So, reducing pest populations reduces risks to livestock. Where possible, DOC and OSPRI work together on pest control operations to maximise the benefits for natural heritage and livestock health.
Game
Deer
Deer are not targeted by predator control operations where 1080 is used to protect native species, but some deer may be affected. Susceptibility depends on the timing of the operation, the size of the animal and the species.
We recognise the value of hunting in New Zealand and we work with hunting groups. We sometimes add deer repellent to 1080 bait to reduce the impact on popular deer-hunting areas. However, there are valid concerns about deer-browsing damage on plant communities.
View our policy: using deer repellent on 1080.
Do not eat deer from 1080 treatment areas while warning signs are present.
View an interactive map of where pesticides have or will be laid on DOC-administered land.
Pigs
Although pigs may be killed during a 1080 operation, their populations aren’t significantly affected. Local observations suggest pig populations rebound quickly – pigs respond to the increased berries and other food sources which increase after possum control.
Do not eat pigs from 1080 treatment areas while warning signs are present.
View an interactive map of where pesticides have or will be laid on DOC-administered land.
Fish
- Studies on multiple fish show that those in water where 1080 is applied are not affected.
- If you catch and eat fish from areas where there has been a 1080 operation, the risk of 1080 poisoning is extremely low.
- As a precaution, do not eat trout for seven days after aerial application of 1080 bait.
Read the research done by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), Landcare Research, Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and others.
Invertebrates
The following review refers to five different studies conducted over 11 years (1994–2005). Each concludes that 1080 has no detectable impact on invertebrate populations.
Where 1080 is being used
View an interactive map of where pesticides have or will be laid on DOC-administered land.
