Steven Lapidge

Effect of a synthetic lure on site visitation and bait uptake by foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and wild dogs (Canis lupus dingo, Canis lupus familiaris)

Application of synthetic fermented egg (SFE), via aerosol, to the surface of bait stations increased site visitation by wild dogs and foxes when compared with the use of buried baits alone. An associated increase in bait uptake by foxes at SFE-treated bait stations was observed when compared with bait uptake at untreated stations, although this effect diminished with time, possibly due to the use of non-lethal baits leading to the discovery of all bait stations and the habituation of animals to sites of reward. Bait uptake by wild dogs, although limited, occurred only at stations treated with SFE. Use of an aerosol based form of SFE allowed an ease of field application not previously associated with the use of synthetic lures.