1080 and the wicked problem of predator control

Aotearoa New Zealand's unique native species are in crisis - 80% of birds, 88% of lizards and 100% of frogs are under threat of extinction. Predation is a key factor.

Aerial use of 1080 is very effective in controlling predators when used in a careful and timely manner.

This collection explores the science of 1080, the history of introduced predators and methods of pest control.

Wicked problems and the nature of science

1080 is a wicked problem. Wicked problems often involve a mix of environmental, social and political issues. They do not have yes or no solutions – they have outcomes that are better or worse.

Wicked problems offer rich, real-life contexts for developing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as their science capabilities.

They are also a valuable context in which to develop students' scientific literacy. Being able to understand and evaluate scientific evidence helps students make informed decisions about social, scientific and political issues.

The following article is an overview of the Hub's 1080 resources. It is a good starting point when looking at 1080, its use in New Zealand and some of the issues related to its use.

The following interactive explores the history and science of mammalian pest control in Aotearoa.

It has three parallel timelines:

• a history of introduced pest mammals
• 1080 as pest control
• advances in science and technology

The timeline is an in-depth look at how and why mammals were introduced to Aotearoa. It also tracks the research efforts to make 1080 a safer, more targeted form of pest control.

A discussion point: We've introduced a lot more mammals - from cows and sheep to cats and dogs. Why are some mammals considered beneficial and others pests? And, can some mammals occupy both categories?

The following articles provide background information about 1080 as well as information about issues related to the aerial use of 1080.

Each article has references that students can use to further explore the science or the issues.

1080 is just one method of predator control. Other methods are explored in the following article.

The pros and cons of each method are touched upon, including alternative poisons.

This is a great resource to review when exploring socio-scientific issues and how misinformation arises.

The following images are useful for starting conversations about 1080 and its use in Aotearoa.

Consider the message the image is trying to get across. How does it convey the message? Does it use emotive language or imagery?

How might you use evidence when discussing some of the issues represented in the images?