Foxes and wild dogs cause about $100M in losses to Australian agriculture, and foxes, in particular, cause unquantified but substantial damage to the Australian environment. 

Both species are presently primarily managed by poisoning with Compound 1080.   There are continuing concerns in the community about use of 1080, particularly with regard to animal welfare and the possibility of accidentally poisoning other species than those targeted for control.  Nevertheless, the wool industry in Australia is heavily dependent on availability of an effective broad-area control method for canids. 

This project aims to deliver an additional option for control of foxes and wild dogs in Australia, with improved target specificity and faster, more humane action.   It is anticipated that the same technology will be also suitable for use in overseas locations where control of canid predators is required for agricultural or environmental reasons.

One agent, para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) has shown considerable promise in pen and field trials for foxes, and is currently being assessed for efficacy in wild dogs.   The correct formulation to induce lethal effects in the most rapid manner is being calibrated.

Another important aspect of this particular toxicant is that an antidote can be made available to land managers for cases where baits are accidentally taken by working dogs, something that is not possible with present baits.