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Hunt is a Project Officer in the same Parks andWildlife Group and coordinates a major research project on wild dog management using a cooperative landscape model approach, which includes the development of innovative control techniques (Email: rob.hunt@environment.nsw.gov.au). Summary A recent review paper by Glen et al . in Austral Ecology (2007, Volume 32 , 492-501) canvassed anecdotal and scientific evidence relating to the role of the Dingo as regulator of ecosystem processes in Australian landscapes. Their review forms part of an increasing volume of literature about the ecological roles of top-order or apex predators around the globe. Although recognizing the possible functional significance of the Dingo is a noteworthy subject matter, the management of the species at an ecosystem scale is complicated by a range of practical and theoretical issues. Perhaps the most significant challenge is the degree to which the Dingo is hybridized with the domestic Dog gone wild (Feral Dog). We suggest here that there is a range of research questions that need to be experimentally addressed as a matter of urgency. This includes but is not limited to understanding the ecological significance of Dingo-Dog hybridization. Such research should precede other research initiatives suggested by Glen et al. such as reintroducing individuals of the pure Dingo back into landscapes. This is particularly the case for south-eastern mainland Australia where the incidence of Dingo-Dog hybridization is high and the ecological consequences of this poorly understood. Finally, new terminology may be needed relating to Dingo and/or Wild Dog management that more clearly reflects both the genetic status of the species as well as its ecological function.

Summary Introduced deer occur in many forests and woodlands in Australia and potentially play an important role in influencing the floristics and structure of these landscapes through eating plants and disseminating seeds. In a glasshouse trial, we tested whether field‐collected scats of Fallow Deer (Dama dama) contained viable plant seeds. Scats of deer obtained from a woodland study area in Kosciuszko National Park, New South Wales, produced seedlings from a range of native and introduced plant species. Forbs and herbs were dominant in these samples, confirming the grazing behaviour of deer at the time scats were collected. Samples of scats from Eastern Grey Kangaroos (Macropus giganteus), collected contemporaneously from the same sites as deer scats, also produced plant germinants. By volume, deer scats produced a greater diversity of plant germinants, including native and weed species, than did kangaroo scats. Although no weed species emanating from deer or kangaroo scats were of national significance, several species were of regional environmental significance, including Common Mullein (Verbascum thapsis), which was only found germinating out of deer scat, Stinkgrass (Eragrostis cilianensis) and Purpletop (Verbena bonariensis). In addition to dispersing viable seeds, Fallow Deer may also influence vegetation structure through their browsing. Further research is necessary to elucidate their respective role in dispersing native and introduced plants as well as any impacts that foraging behaviour might be having on woodland landscapes, to better inform management of the resident deer population.

Application of synthetic fermented egg (SFE), via aerosol, to the surface of bait stations increased site visitation by wild dogs and foxes when compared with the use of buried baits alone. An associated increase in bait uptake by foxes at SFE-treated bait stations was observed when compared with bait uptake at untreated stations, although this effect diminished with time, possibly due to the use of non-lethal baits leading to the discovery of all bait stations and the habituation of animals to sites of reward. Bait uptake by wild dogs, although limited, occurred only at stations treated with SFE. Use of an aerosol based form of SFE allowed an ease of field application not previously associated with the use of synthetic lures. Effect of a synthetic lure on site visitation and bait uptake by foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and wild dogs (Canis lupus dingo, Canis lupus familiaris)

The economic impact of introduced predators, principally wild dogs, foxes, and feral pigs, on agriculture in Australia varies across space and time but is estimated to be in excess of US$120 million annually. Australian farmers and the government spend a further US$30 million annually attempting to manage the predation and disease impacts of introduced predators on stock and wildlife. The principal chemical tool used to control each of these species is sodium fluoroacetate ('1080'). Issues relating to target-specificity and perceived inhumaneness of the toxin have led to heavily restricted use of the compound in the U.S. and a recent registration review in Australia. Three current proactive research projects are addressing this issue. The first is investigating a chemical, p-aminopropiophenone or PAPP, that appears to be selectively toxic for introduced carnivores, as well as rapid acting and relatively humane in its mode of action. The compound acts by interfering with oxygen transport in the blood of foxes and wild dogs, resulting in an effect similar to carbon monoxide poisoning. The second project involves testing and commercializing powerful fox, wild dog, and feral pig attractants that may help increase the efficacy and target-specificity of control programs. The first product from this project is FeralMone ® , an aerosolized formulation of synthetic fermented egg that is highly attractive to canids. The third project has involved developing a manufactured target-specific feral pig bait package, PIGOUT ® . Initial research has focused on the delivery vehicle that contains sodium fluoracetate centralized in an internal core, whilst current research is developing a recently identified humane alternative feral pig control agent. This paper will report on the economic impact of introduced predators in Australia, the recent Australian sodium fluoroacetate review recommendations, as well as summaries of current research into new predator control tools.