by Dr Cameron Beeck, General Manager
Zinc phosphide mouse bait performance under real paddock conditions is the focus of a new grower feedback initiative from 4Farmers. With mouse pressure building across Western Australia, your experience matters.
Is your zinc phosphide mouse bait working? We want to hear from you
We are seeking direct feedback from growers on their experience using zinc phosphide mouse baits at the current 25g/kg label rate.
With mouse activity building across parts of Western Australia, many growers have already deployed baiting programs this season. While zinc phosphide remains the primary registered option, there is ongoing discussion around whether the current strength is sufficient under high pressure situations.
Research from CSIRO and GRDC has suggested that in periods of extremely high mouse numbers, a stronger formulation of 50g/kg may be required to achieve effective control. However, this position is not universally accepted. One company, ACTA, has indicated that well-timed applications of 25g/kg can still deliver strong results when applied correctly.
Given these differing views, it is critical that we hear directly from growers on what is happening in the paddock.
We are particularly interested in:
- How effective you found 25g/kg bait under current mouse pressure
- Whether you observed bait aversion or poor control
- Timing of application relative to mouse population build up
- Any differences across soil types, stubble loads or farming systems
This feedback will play an important role in informing future decisions around product development and regulatory engagement.
We have submitted an application to the APVMA seeking approval to supply a 50g/kg zinc phosphide bait option. However, this is still under assessment and not yet permitted for use.
Real world grower experience is essential to ensure the right tools are available when they are needed most. If you have used zinc phosphide this season, we encourage you to share your observations.
Call the team at 4Farmers on 9356 5445 or send an email to sales@4farmers.com.au.
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