Field evaluation of para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) for controlling stoats (Mustela erminea) in New Zealand

Stoats (Mustela erminea) have been implicated in the decline of many native species in New Zealand. At present, kill-trapping is the main technique used for controlling them, but it is labour intensive and expensive. Poisoning offers an alternative, but there are currently no toxins registered for use against stoats. We present the results of two trials undertaken in Waitutu Forest, Southland, to test the effectiveness of para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) as a stoat control agent in the field. Meat baits containing 13 mg PAPP were placed in bait stations for five nights and tracking rates were used to monitor changes in stoat abundance. In the first trial, the index of stoat abundance was reduced by 83% and in the second trial by 87%. Our results indicate that PAPP is an effective toxin for stoats in the field and has the potential to provide a significant new tool for management of native species.