This course three and a half day course provides an overview of animal pests, their impacts and control methods (including the principles these are based on, and the task specifications DOC has developed). 

The course covers all the legal requirements for animal welfare and handling toxins. Working within the law is vital to allow pest control agencies and community groups continued access to the full suite of animal pest control methods 

In particular, it describes the six control methods most commonly used in DOC, and their advantages and disadvantages.  That is:

• Three pesticides - 'Feratox Strikers', hand laid cyanide and 1080 cereal baits in 'Philproof' bait stations
• Three traps - 'Victor Professional' rat traps, 'Warrior' possum kill traps and 'Doc200' stoat kill traps

The course describes best practice in the field when setting trap lines and placing traps and pesticides. These ensure pest operations meet animal ethics targets and avoid non-target kills while maximising pest control.  Animal Pest Control Methods also reinforces the correct use of personal protective equipment.

For more information see the Department of Conservation website