Beyond Orokonui: Halo Project

Transcription

1 Beyond Orokonui: Halo Project Pest Trapping Manual Image credit: Flyover Media Mihiwaka Contact: Rhys Millar, LCT Project Manager: or or Acknowledgements Thank you to NPCA and DOC for documentation that has assisted in the writing of this manual. National Pest Control Agencies ( Code A3: Private Land Owners' Guide to Possum Control: Control Tools and Techniques (Nov 2015). Code A8: Pest Mustelids: Monitoring and Control (Nov 2015). Code A4.2: Kill Traps. guideline to trap possums, ferrets, stoats and feral cats using kill traps (Nov 2015). Department of Conservation (DOC) for the DOC series trapping systems information for the DOC 200 (

2 Table of Contents 1. Purpose The Halo Project Map to show the priorities for the inner & outer halo Map to show inner halo phase Procedures for Instigating Halo Trapping Operations Procedures for instigating backyard trapping operations Procedures for instigating group volunteer trapping operations on public land or 3rd-party private land Trapping Heath and Safety The LCT has a commitment to safety and well-being General health and safety specific for trapping Target Pest Species Best Practice for Traps Live Capture Possum Traps Description How to kill a captured animal Handling Dead Animals Safely Targeting Mustelids and Rodents Mustelids and rodents traps DOC series A24 Multi-kill trap Targeting Possums Possum traps Timms traps Sentinel trap Finding Trapped Live Animals Mature possums Young possums (Joey and Backriders) Mustelids or rodents How to Determine the Presence of Possums Common Signs Using chew cards Recording results Halo Project Trapping Data Collection Sheet

3 1. Purpose This document s purpose is to provide practical information regarding the best management practices around pest trapping. Pest control is vital for wildlife conservation in New Zealand. New Zealand s native species are particularly vulnerable to introduced land-based mammals which were previously absent from their evolutionary history, making our natives ill equipped to combat a number of threats posed by introduced pests. Pest species can be described as any species introduced to New Zealand which can negatively impact native plants and animals. 2. The Halo Project Landscape Connections Trust (LCT) is coordinating the Beyond Orokonui project, which aims to restore and enhance the landscape from North Dunedin to Waikouaiti. One of the Beyond Orokonui projects is the Halo Project. The need for pest control in the Beyond Orokonui area has been highlighted due to the number of invasive species present threating the vitality of its plants, animals and people. Main pests in the area include stoats, ferrets, rats and possums, which prey on many of our native species. The Halo Project was established to combat these threats, and seeks to enhance ecosystems, contribute to resilient agriculture and support the recovery of rare and threatened species. The Halo Projects aims will be achieved by connecting communities through collaboration and shared targets within volunteer teams in the project area, installing and monitor traps and bait stations in their homes, streets and hinterlands. Widespread total pest eradication is challenging or even possibly unachievable, in many cases, making committed long-term pest control operations fundamental for native species protection as pest populations can recovery quickly. For more information about the Beyond Orokonui Project see Also thanks to: 3

4 2.1. Map to show the priorities for the inner & outer halo The Priorities for the Inner & Outer Halo 4

5 2.2. Map to show inner halo phase 1 The Inner Halo area. Stoat trap locations are indicative only. 5

6 3. Procedures for Instigating Halo Trapping Operations 3.1. Procedures for instigating backyard trapping operations This procedure is for individuals or families wanting to embark on trapping operations on their own rented or owned properties. 1. Complete the LCT Volunteer Registration Form. 2. Use chew cards to identify pests on property, notifying Halo Project Coordinator of the outcomes. 3. Agree on project plan with the Halo Project coordinator regulatory of checking; bait supply, data capture and transfer. 4. Complete risk assessment, specific to the activity and the property. 5. Demonstrate handling ability of traps that are appropriate for the identified pests on the property. 6. Begin trapping and data collection Procedures for instigating group volunteer trapping operations on public land or 3rdparty private land This procedure is for groups of volunteers wanting to embark on trapping operations on public land, or on 3rd-party privately owned land. 1. Each individual to complete the LCT Volunteer Registration Form. 2. Each individual to complete the Management Plan for pre-existing injury or medical conditions. 3. Volunteer Group and LCT Halo Coordinator develop a Project Plan identification of pests, tools, quality control and management of operations. 4. Complete risk assessment, specific to the activity and the property. 5. Complete emergency response plan. 6. Agree on project plan with the Halo Project coordinator regulatory of checking; bait supply, data capture and transfer; volunteer communications; volunteer leader. 7. LCT Halo Coordinator to seek appropriate permissions (e.g. DCC land owner permission, private landowner permission). 8. Once the appropriate permissions and approvals have been granted, the Halo Coordinator will hold a site induction meeting with all anticipating volunteers, 9. Volunteers demonstrate handling ability of traps that are appropriate for the identified pests on the site. 10. Begin trapping and data collection. 6

7 4. Trapping Heath and Safety To minimise the risk of an accident please complete the processes in Section 3 whenever carrying out any pest control. Additionally make sure you have read and have access to the LCT Heath and Safety Policy The LCT has a commitment to safety and well-being Underpinning all LCT s activities is a fundamental commitment to the safety and well-being of all involved; contractors, volunteers, clients and community. The LCT has developed policies and processes to reflect this commitment, and will continuously review their effectiveness. Similarly, we encourage all who engage with the LCT to take responsibility for their own safety and well-being, together with that of their fellow volunteers and colleagues. Volunteer trappers should always take preventative steps to avoid potential hazards by: Take care and always be cautions when handling traps. Have a first-aid kit on hand. Ensure children do not have access to traps. Carry a cell phone with you and carry the contact details of the closest emergency centre on you General health and safety specific for trapping Always wear gloves when handling trapped animals. Many species can carry infections or diseases. Take every trap check and re-setting seriously carrying out a strict routine to minimise mistakes such as accidentally catching your fingers. Have hand sanitizer available to reduce the risk of picking up an infection or disease, particularly if you consume food on site with no access to hand washing facilities. Keep traps and trap boxes clean. Do not put bait under the plate. Be aware if your hand gets captured in a trap, you may not be able to free yourself easily. Therefore always inform someone where you are going, when and what time you are expected to return or take a buddy with you (if possible). 5. Target Pest Species The main threats to our native plants and animals in the area are from possums, mustelids (ferrets, stoats and weasels) and rodents. Other species of concern include hedgehogs, mice, cats and dogs. Possums consume large amounts of native vegetation through intense browsing, which can impact important ecological flowering, fruiting, seed dispersal and germination processes. They also destroy birds nests and eat eggs and chicks. 7

8 Mustelids - (ferrets, stoats and weasels) prey on lizards, invertebrates and birds and are able to take down prey that are three times their own body weight. Their population size rapidly respond to food availability. Rats, rabbits and mice are typically diet staples for mustelids but birds, bird eggs, lizards and invertebrates are also targeted. Rats - Two species are found in New Zealand, The ship/black rat is commonly found in trees and the Norway rat commonly found near waterways. Rats prey on seeds, seedlings, invertebrates, lizards, birds, bird eggs and chicks. Hedgehogs - Eat large numbers of invertebrates and ground nesting birds eggs. Cats Both feral and domestic cats prey on lizards, invertebrates, birds, bird eggs and chicks. Dogs - Uncontrolled dogs are known to kill kiwi, penguins and shore birds. 8

9 6. Best Practice for Traps 1. Before use ensure your trap is operating correctly. Is it being triggered with the right amount of force? Is the trigger set too heavy or too light? If the trigger is set wrong the animal might get struck incorrectly resulting a slow death. 2. The frequency of trap checking will vary depending on species abundance, season, target species and what you are trying to protect. High catch rates will equal more frequent checking. When you first start trapping, it is recommended to check traps (kill traps) weekly then after a drop in catch-rate change to fortnightly. Live traps MUST be checked daily. 3. Traps are most effective when serviced correctly with oiled parts. Fisholene is very effective and does not dissuade animals from entering the traps. Keep them clean from dirt, fur and blood with a wire brush. 4. Give traps regular damage checks and repair or replace any defective parts. Traps should be brought in from the felid and given a full service every one to two years. 5. If a trap is in a logical location but not catching anything don t consider moving it until after two years of no catches. 6. If you have regular catches, consider adding another trap near by. 7. Setting possum and mustelid traps in pairs reduces the labour time and possum catches can attract mustelids to the area. 8. All the traps provided will be fitted with tunnel boxes or covers to keep out non-target species, guild target species to the trap and provide increased public safety. Possum browsed tree fern (left) and unbrowsed tree fern (right) ( 9

10 7. Live Capture Possum Traps 7.1. Description Cage or box traps are designed to capture possums without causing them any harm. However, live trapping can cause distress if the animal is left in a trap for long periods of time. Possums are active at night and do not like to be in full sun. It is cruel to leave a possum in the trap during the day in full sun. The Animal Welfare Act 1999 requires traps to be checked within 12 hours of sunrise. We recommend traps are checked and cleared within a few hours of sunrise How to kill a captured animal Live Trap The most humane way of dealing with an animal is for your first blow to render the animal unconscious as quickly and painlessly as possible. The second step is to then kill the animal. The method you choose should always be the one you have the most skill and confidence in carrying out. We have described three euthanising options below: 1. Shooting When done correctly this is the fastest and most humane method. For maximum effectiveness the possum needs to be shot in the head. However, be aware of the legal requirements involved with gun use: This is NOT an option in urban or populated areas Firearms must be licensed or be operated under the direct supervision of a licenced person. You must be over the age of 18 to operate. Bullet velocities under 120 m/sec are insufficient to kill possums with a single shot. Shooter needs to be aware that close range shooting can pose risks of the bullet ricocheting to the user or observer. 10

11 2. Blow to the head Strike the animal in the head with a blunt object such as a hammer or wooden stick. This method can be very effective with a confident operator who is strong enough to ensure the first blow stuns the animal immediately and/or kills it. Aim to use one or two strikes that will crush the skull between the ears. The animal is likely to move during this process and will need to be held down with a net or forked stick. If there is any doubt regarding if the animal is dead or not its throat should be cut to insure death by blood loss. 3. Put down by the vet Alternately you can take the caged animal to the vet to be euthanised. If you choose this option ensure you cover the cage before traveling with it. This is an expensive option and the more time in the cage will cause the animal undue distress. 8. Handling Dead Animals Safely Dead animals can be a heath hazard and must be disposed of carefully with consideration for others particularly in public areas. Always wear protective gloves and wash hands thoroughly after touching any dead animals. The smell of a carcass can attract the attention of dogs so it needs to be disposed of properly. If a dog comes across a carcass they may remove the dead animal from the trap, dog owners will not enjoy wrestling with their pet to remove a dead body from its mouth. Wrap dead pest in newspaper and dig a whole in the ground and bury it to let it decay naturally, if this option is not possible then dispose of it within your household rubbish. Always remember to wash your hand thoroughly afterwards as pests can carry a number of parasites and diseases. 11

12 9. Targeting Mustelids and Rodents 9.1. Mustelids and rodents traps DOC series (DOC200 or DOC250) manual resetting A24 self resetting Single DOC 200 Housing Double DOC 200 traps Double DOC 200 Housing A24 Multi-kill trap About mustelid baits Fresh bait is key for catches. Alternate baits to attract potential trap-shy animals. Bait should be placed on the nail pedestal at the enclosed end of the trap. Bait should always be placed while the trap is in the un-set position Bait options Rabbit fresh, salted**, freeze dried Rat Pilchards Eggs - least preferred ** Dispose of old salted baits where no other animals can reach them. If animals taste the old and off bait they will be deterred from the traps by the smell in the future. 12

13 9.2. DOC series Description Developed by the Department of Conservation (DOC) to effectively and humanely kill ferrets, stoats, rats and hedgehogs. DOC series traps are designed to close onto a captured animal with sufficient force to kill the animal swiftly. DOCs can be set singly or in pairs, must have purpose designed wooden tunnels this is included with the trap. The mesh at either end is to prevent access of non-targets such as ground birds Where to set trap Make sure you place the trap so it has a clear pathway so it is accessible for the target species to encourage entering the trap tunnel. Stream edges, bush land edges, fence lines, animal runs, fallen trees, man made paths or roads are preferred tracks for mustelids making them good locations to set traps. Having tree canopy cover is also beneficial, as mustelids will not worry about predation from above, increasing the likelihood of entering your trap. Roughly place one trap per 10 ha, this can vary according to terrain. The more open the area such as grassland a lower density of traps will need to be placed How to set DOC traps With a spanner unscrew the bolt holding the lid on the wooden trap box in place. Slide lid away from you to the right. Arming the trap. Pull carefully on the wire loop with your hand. Continue pulling past the top of the trigger arm, allowing the trigger arm to drop into place onto the treadle. Slowly release pressure, allowing the bottom of the trigger arm to slide up against the treadle and catch on the sear. Trigger Arm Trigger Arm Wire Loop Sear Treadle Source: Predator Traps 13

14 How to disarm a DOC series trap Kick or knock the wooden tunnel of the trap to set the trap off. If this does not work activating the treadle with a long stick is another option. Do not put your hands near the trapping mechanism until you are sure the trap is not set Removal and disposal of dead animals 1. With a spanner unscrew the bolt holding the lid on the wooden trap box in place. Slide lid away from you to the right. 2. Wearing gloves carefully pull on the wire loop with your hand. Continue pulling until you have freed the now dead pest then slowly let the wire loop back down to the treadle ready to re-bait the trap. 3. Wrap dead pest in newspaper and dig a whole in the ground and bury it to let it decay naturally, if this option is not possible then dispose of it within your household rubbish. Ensure carcass is buried well away from any waterways. Always remember to wash your hand thoroughly afterwards as pests can carry a number of parasites and diseases A24 Multi-kill trap Description A24s are relatively new trap, developed by Goodnature Ltd in New Zealand. A24s are an automatic trap that humanely kills pests and then can reset itself up to 24 times. A24s are deigned to target rats and stoats. Bait used must be paste that can be purchased from Goodnature Ltd A24 set-up To install an A24 the tree mount section needs to be screwed 12 cm off the ground on a tree or something similar. The power unit can then be attached to the mount by sliding it into place. The CO 2 canister can then be attached by screwing it into place. The diagram below shows the bait area in orange. For further information and instruction see: Source: Removal and disposal of dead animals 1. Wrap dead pest in newspaper and dig a whole in the ground and bury it to let it decay naturally, if this option is not possible then dispose of it within your household rubbish. Ensure carcass is buried well away from any waterways. Always remember to wash your hand thoroughly afterwards as pests can carry a number of parasites and diseases. 2. There is no need for you to interact with the trap. 14

15 10. Targeting Possums Possum traps Timms (yellow box) The Sentinel Timms trap (housing) The Sentinel About Possum baits Possums like sweet and sugary food. Apple, citrus and kiwi fruit or carrots in around 25 mm chucks are best to use in Timms traps. If the bait is too small or large, the possum will not set off the trigger. Additional lures at add are almond or vanilla essence, curry, jelly crystals, cinnamon or aniseed. Varying bait types has been proven to increase catch rate. Bait should be replaced after every catch or every two to three days Timms traps Description Timms traps kill possums quickly using a spring loaded metal mouth, when triggered the trap snaps up under the animal neck. This breaks the neck and shuts off the airway causing a rapid death Where to place Timms traps Trap placement needs to be on level ground ideally near to possum dens, trails or favourite food sources. Traps can also be put on tree braches close to limb and trunk joints or on ceiling rafters if a possum is living under your roof. Avoid wet long grass/weeds and setting your traps in heavy rain, as possums dislike theses conditions. Cats and dogs are unlikely to be attracted to the trap if it is baited correctly. However if you fear that children or pets might interfere with the trap, un-set the trap each morning and reset it in the evening. Timms trap have been used for years and have had very few reported cases of being cats being caught when the correct baiting practices are followed. 15

16 How to set a Timms trap 1. Turn trap upside down. 2. Push bait onto the trigger wire as far as the bend, ensure the bait is horizontal not vertical. 3. Place trap right side up and fix to the ground with wire stakes. 4. With one hand push down on top of the trap, while you pull the nylon cord with the other until the striker bar comes down into the set position How to disarm a Timms Trap Source: To release the trap, bang the outside hard always keeping fingers clear of the trap entrance. Alternatively, hold the nylon cord taut and use a hook (coat hanger) to release the strike bar. Slowly let off the tension on the cord until the striker bars comes back against the stop. Note to increase the sensitivity of the trap bend the bait rod where it meets (about 50 mm from the tip) the cross rod towards the front of the trap Removal and disposal of dead animals 1. Wearing gloves remove possum from trap by pulling the Timms nylon cord until the possum is free and then pull out possum by the tail or back leg. Be sure to keep your fingers clear at all times, as you may have re-set the trap. 2. Wrap dead pest in newspaper and dig a whole in the ground and bury it to let it decay naturally, if this option is not possible then dispose of it within your household rubbish. Ensure carcass is buried well away from any waterways. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards as possums can carry a number of parasites and diseases Sentinel trap Description Designed to kill possums, the sentinel trap is lightweight with a metal spring and plastic cover. To prevent non-target catches bird-proof covers can be added How to set a Sentinel trap 1. Select a suitable straight, sturdy tree and hammer on the plastic pipe with nail and washer. 2. Attached the trap to the tree on the plastic pipe. To tether the trap nail and staple into the tree and attach a nylon rope to the staple and to the trap. Then attach the cover that sits behind the plastic pipe. 16

17 3. To set the trap place the sentinel flat on the ground with springs facing away. Place feet on foot pegs while raising the kill bar. 4. Hold the back of the trap with the other hand and pull upwards and hook through the plate hole. This is the set position. 5. The cover then needs to be folded down and attached to the slide lugs in the sides of the trap mechanism. To re-bait without setting off the trap, take cover off and hold plate and trigger with your hand. Put peanut butter on both sides of the bait block (needs to be paste bait). Then replace the cover. Trigger Arm Lifting Bar Trigger Plate Spring How to disarm a sentinel Source: - In order to disarm the trap knock the trap with an object keeping your hands clear from the trapping mechanism at all times. This will typically set it off. If it does not, then you can also use a stick to push down on the trigger plate, which will engage the trap (not preferred as stick can break and flick back at you). To watch how to set a sentinel trap follow this link: ( Removal and disposal of dead animals Kill Bar 1. To remove a possum from a sentinel trap take the trap off the tree and place on the ground. With the trap facing you, stand on the foot pegs and raise the kill bar while pulling on the tail with the free hand. 2. Wrap dead pest in newspaper and dig a whole in the ground and bury it to let it decay naturally, if this option is not possible then dispose of it within your household rubbish. Ensure carcass is buried well away from any waterways. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards as possums can carry a number of parasites and diseases. 17

18 11. Finding Trapped Live Animals Mature possums This rarely happens, however if ever you find a mature possum alive carry out the following to ensure of quick disposal and caution must be taken to avoid bites and scratches. 1. Wear rubber gloves. 2. Grab possum by the tail. 3. Release from the trap and hold at arms length. 4. Stun the animal with a quick bow to the head between and slightly forward of the ears using a solid object (baton/hammer). 5. Repeat step 4 until the animal hangs limp and shows no sign of life Young possums (Joey and Backriders) Check the body for young possums that may be living in the mothers pouch (joey) or on the mothers back (back rider). Back riders should be handled, as per you would a mature possum (steps 1-4 above). The humane method to kill joeys and backriders is to crush the skull with a sturdy bar or stick. Alternately you may take the animal to the SPCA, who will do this for you Mustelids or rodents If a rat or mouse is found alive in a trap follow the suggested steps below: 1. Wear rubber gloves 2. If possible keep rodent in trap 3. Stun animal with a firm blow to the head between and slightly forward of the ears with a solid object 4. Repeat step 3 until the animal is limp and shows no sign of life 12. How to Determine the Presence of Possums Common Signs There are a number of signs you can look out for if you are trying to determine if you have possums on your property and where they are frequently hanging out. Possum droppings ( Possum trail through long grass 18

19 Trails Possums will typically follow the same walkway making trails through vegetation. Trees - Take notice of trees which may have claw or bite marks on the base if it is frequented by a possum. It is also possible to see foraging damage in trees. Possums will normally leave jagged edges on leaf stumps, nibble lemons and eat new buds on plants such as roses. Droppings- Pellets will normally be rounded and about the size of jellybeans Using chew cards Description Chew cards are a cost effective means of detecting possums at low densities. They can also provide an informal monitoring method. Lots of pests are attracted to wax cards and will chew on them. The tooth impressions on the wax card will determine if you have possums present on your property. The chew cards have channels running through them these can be stuff with bait and can also help measure the bite marks to identify the animal imprints. Chew card mounted on a tree Bait placement on a chew card How to use 1. Space cards at approx. 60m (75-80 paces) near habitat to 100m ( paces) on farmland to sample all potential territories. 2. Ideally, target the following features: bigger trees, native bush, bush-pasture margin, trees in clearings, macrocarpa, pine, totara and large mahoe trees, runs from scrub, gorse or long grass, walking tracks, wind-thrown trees, bridges, scrubby cliffs, old buildings, shelter belts, hedges, roads, driveways, gateways, creek banks, ridges and boulder fields. Possums, like people, tend to take the path of least resistance and prefer an undisturbed, dry home. They climb large trees for safety, to claim their territory and to roost, especially in the ( high and dry ) cavities of macrocarpa trees. 3. Fold each card in half and nail at knee height to a tree, post etc. Use one nail, 1cm below the fold. Leave the nail head proud so you can pull it out later. Spread the card wings out a bit to make it easier for possums to bite. Number cards 1, 2, 3, etc. with a marker pen as you go (you might have to wipe off the excess peanut oil on each card with a cloth). Write END on the last card. 4. You can also fold cards over fence wires, netting or small branches and secure by pushing a nail through just below fold. 5. Check cards every 1-2 weeks. Record and change cards with possum bites ( scrapes ), rat chewing (card partially or wholly eaten) or hedgehog bites (two or four small holes). Mark your collected possum cards with a star ( one star ) if it s the first bite you ve seen at a location; two stars ( two star ) for the second time. This (and the card number) indicates priority for control and most likely location(s) of possums. 19

20 6. Take a small notebook with you and record: date, start point (Card1) and End point. Record location of every third or fourth card, if possible to aid the trapper. Alternatively, mark your route on a photocopy of a map with card locations marked How to put bait into the chew card To attract possums bait needs to be used. A 5:1 ratio of peanut butter and icing sugar is ideal. With paint scraper work a tablespoon of bait at least 2 mm into the internal channels at each end of the card Interpreting bite marks You may find you have a number of different bite marks in your chew cards. The following are some ways of identifying what animal made the marks. The upper incisor pairs of a possum are approx. 6 mm (about two channels wide) and slightly curved. The lower jaw patterns are variable. The card will rarely be cut thorough but usually possums will extensively chew and crush the card margins. Cards without obvious crushed areas may just have light biting or scattered individual bit marks. Rodent bites are easily distinguishable from possum. Rodents will fully cut out sections of card, which possums will never do. Incisor marks from mice are about 1 mm wide and about 2 mm for rats, so much smaller then the possum. Size comparison a) possum, b) possum, c) rat, d) rat 20

21 Shape comparison possum / paihamu mouse / kiore rat / kiore hedgehog / tuatete stoat / toriura TIPS: possum / paihamu typically extensively crush the card. Sometimes leave teeth impressions, 4-6mm wide. mouse / kiore often chew just one surface and may leave teeth marks (1mm wide) rat / kiore chew large chunks of card. Often leave teeth marks (2mm wide) stoat / toriura pin prick holes spaced 6-8mm apart. hedgehog / tuatete sharp canines in upper jaw about 5mm apart (top photo) and blunt teeth in lower jaw 4mm across (bottom photo. Chew card photos sources from: Sweetapple and Nugget Chew card interpretation Recording results The recording of results is important for providing information on predator populations and ensuring your efforts are being effective in reducing the number of target species. Every time a trap is checked results should be recorded, monthly records should be summarised for the target species. Annual totals can be calculated to give pest number trends, understand seasonal fluctuations and get an indication as to whether your pest control methods have been effective. GPS recordings of trap placement or locations mapped on topographical maps are suggested to ensure correct trap densities along with information for heath and safety reasons. 21

22 13. Halo Project Trapping Data Collection Sheet Trapper name: Trapping project name: Date (dd/mm/yy) Location Trap type/no. Bait used Days set Catch Additional notes 22

23 Date (dd/mm/yy) Location Trap type/no. Bait used Days set Catch Additional notes 23