1080 (sodium monofluroacetate) is a cruel and indiscriminate poison used to 'remove' unwanted populations of animals. Whilst the aim is to remove unwanted pests unfortunately much loved pets and other wildlife that aren’t pests die from 1080 bait. Banned in most countries, 1080 is still used liberally throughout Australia. 1080 poison is a slow killer. When ingested (usually through baited food) the animal suffers a prolonged and horrific death. Herbivores take the longest to die - up to 44hrs, while carnivores can take up to 21hrs before finally succumbing to final effects of the poison. The speed of death is dependent on the rate of the animal’s metabolism.
While I know the damage wild dogs cause to farmers there has to be a better more humane way to deal with wild dogs and other pests. I have friends and family who have witnessed what their dogs went through whilst they died of 1080. It is a cruel and inhumane death. I really can't believe this stuff is still be used. It can be spread simply by a crow picking it up and spitting it out several properties later and the chemical is designed for multiple kills as it induces vomiting so the other dogs can have their fill as well. If a dingo is shot and skinned the reward is $50 but if it is shot and skinned and the person uses 1080 bait they get $100 for their skin. So people are rewarded more if they use 1080 bait so encourages more people to use it. This is so wrong.
