Pest control

Pest control is a very sensitive issue and what might be considered pests at one site may be harmless or even regarded as an asset at another. Hence any form of control must be carefully researched before implementation, always remembering that there is a legal requirement to control some pest species (Ground Game Act, Weeds Act). Be aware of Health and Safety and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) which require employers to control exposure to hazardous substances to prevent ill health. Pest control should take place in conjunction with Habitat Action Plans, Biodiversity and Species Action Plans. Some specific approaches that have been adopted on the study sites include:

Rabbits - Shooting or ferreting both give limited control. Fumigation by trained contractors is recommended so long as no other species are sharing the warrens. An alternative is to fence those areas in need of protection with wire or electric cable (Annex 04, Rye Harbour). Recommended wire is 19 gauge with 31 mm mesh.

Mink, brown rat and fox may all become pests where ground-nesting birds are important. Mink are best trapped in early spring, foxes shot from August to February and rats poisoned all year round. Contractors should be used and due care taken that other species are not affected.

Corvids can be trapped in the breeding season and shot at other times (Larson traps were used at Pagham Harbour, Annex 03).