Pest animal control methods

To protect our unique environment we use a range of methods in pest control operations. You can use some of these methods on your property, get involved in a predator free group, or contact us if you need advice. 

About poisons and traps

When planning pest control operations, we consider the methods that will achieve best control outcomes with the budget available, while taking into account animal welfare issues for both the target and non-target animals.

These methods include: 

• Trapping – for possum, stoat, weasel, and ferret (mustelid), rats and hedgehog control
• Brodifacoum – for possum and rat control
• Pindone – for possum and rat control
• Diphacinone – for rodent control
• Feratox – for possum control
• Cholecalciferol – for possum and rat control
• Double tap – for possum and rat control
• Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) – for possum and rat control

You can find more information on types of traps, and where to get them, on our trapping page. 

Tips 'n' tricks

1.  Stop attracting pests by putting rubbish in sealed bins and rodent proofing the compost, or use a sealed worm farm.

2.  Work with neighbours to effectively control pests in your area

3.  Don’t stop! The best way to get rid of pests is through ongoing control.

Keeping safe

If you’re in an area where there is a pest control operation underway, then:

• Don’t touch traps, poison, bait stations or carcasses
• Keep your dog on a lead and don’t let them scavenge carcasses.
• Look for signs and follow instructions

For information about risks and safety considerations, see the pages for each method.

If you think a person, dog or cat has eaten poison or poisoned animals then seek medical attention immediately or call the National Poison Centre 0800 764 766.

Other useful pest animal resources

• Wellington City Council’s Backyard Biodiversity guide to controlling pests and encouraging biodiversity on your property
• DOC’s ground control for pests 
• Landcare Research’s Decision support system to help larger landowners and environment groups wanting to undertake pest animal control select the best methods to control animal pests
• Pest Detective

More information

• Animal Welfare Act 1999
• Environmental Protection Agency