🐾 1080 Baiting Program Underway in Southern Blue Mountains NP

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has announced an ongoing ground baiting program within the southern section of Blue Mountains National Park, running from Friday, May 2, 2025, to Friday, May 1, 2026. This initiative is part of a broader regional effort to control wild dog and fox populations across several national parks, including Abercrombie River National Park, Kanangra-Boyd National Park, and Wollemi National Park.

The program utilises 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison, a substance found naturally in some Australian native plants, to minimise the impact of these introduced predators on vulnerable native wildlife, particularly threatened species, and to protect neighbouring livestock. NPWS states that native Australian animals generally exhibit a higher tolerance to 1080 compared to introduced species like wild dogs and foxes, making it a targeted pest control method.

Despite its widespread use by land management agencies, 1080 baiting remains a topic of debate, with some expressing concerns about its potential impact on non-target animals and the perceived cruelty of the poison. However, scientific studies conducted by organisations like Local Land Services and NPWS suggest that these programs, when properly implemented, do not significantly affect populations of common non-target animals.

Crucial safety warning for pet owners: 1080 is highly lethal to domestic cats and dogs. Signs will be prominently placed at the entry to all baiting locations. Domestic pets are strictly prohibited from NSW National Parks managed lands. Pets and working dogs in the vicinity must be restrained or muzzled and must not enter baiting locations. In the unfortunate event of accidental poisoning, immediate veterinary assistance should be sought.

For more information, contact the NPWS Kanangra area office at Oberon on (02) 6336 6200.