EVALUATION OF A BIODYNAMIC TECHNIQUE FOR POSSUM PEST-CONTROL

Bio-dynamic control involves burning pest tissue or organs and spreadi ng the ash on areas to be protected. In New Zealand, bio-dynamic metho ds have been suggested for repelling possums where they damage forests or spread disease. We assessed the repellent effects of five bio-dyna mic tinctures. First we tested these materials on possums in pens and noted their effects on foraging behaviour, food consumption, and body weight. Then we monitored bait consumption from treated and untreated feeder stations in the field. Although an orthodox herbivore repellent significantly deterred possums, we detected no behavioural or repelle nt effects of the biodynamic tinctures in any of our trials. We are un able to recommend these tinctures for possum control.