Guardian dogs for livestock and protection in Australia

摘要: Wild predators can form a threat to livestock production all over the world. Lethal methods are often used control predators, however, lethal has many disadvantages. Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs) offer non-lethal alternative predator control. There is increasing evidence that LGDs be highly effective for stock protection, and able protect types of from different predators. In Australia, wild dogs (including dingoes hybrids) cause most damage industry. relatively new method in little research been done on their use. In this PhD project, effectiveness protection Australia was investigated. particular, I examined effects scale management – size property number LGD effectiveness, movements behaviour. A critical evaluation existing literature showed that, methods, likely suitable Australian farm conditions. A telephone survey among 150 users further these apparently with 66% respondents stating had eliminated predation, an additional 30% significantly decreased predation. Scale did not influence effectiveness; main factor influencing per LGD. In order investigate behaviour, GPS collars were deployed Maremma Sheepdogs three properties, where free-ranging large areas livestock. The results show spend between 82% 100% time livestock, but away do occur. On two simulated dog incursions test Maremmas’ response challenge. These experiments exhibit territorial suggest free ranging use exclusion Movements then expected, as need some patrol maintain boundaries. LGDs very both small properties extensive operations, long appropriate situation. free-ranging, set up territories around stock. This because it creates buffer zone which repelled. By reducing or eliminating have great potential conflict producers predators. benefit dingo conservation biodiversity, if reduced when used.