Pre/postharvest rodent and bird control

The project, to be implemented by the Denver Wildlife Research Center (DWRC), will focus on identifying VPM problems, developing and demonstrating improved VPM technologies, training LDC personnel in VPM, and collecting and disseminating VPM information. The DWRC will gather data on major vertebrate pests and the conditions under which they damage crops. Among rodent pests, precedence will be given to Rattus argentiventer; Bandicota bengalensis; Arvicanthis and Mastomys species; Cricetid rodents; Meriones species and other Gerbillids; and cosmopolitan species of Rattus. The Quelea is among the bird pests to be investigated. Data will be gathered and improved methodologies developed to allow assessment of principal losses. Existing VPM materials and technologies will be adapted and tested in DWRC laboratories as well as in large-scale LDC field trials and pilot tests. New, safe, low-cost VPM methods will be developed as necessary. Based on results of the field and pilot trials, LDC"s will be helped to plan, implement and evaluate VPM programs. Participating LDC"s will be visited at least three times per year, with priority given to LDC"s such as Indonesia and Peru where no significant VPM work is currently underway. The DWRC will provide on-the-job training to LDC personnel, seek non-project funding for U.S. and third country professional training, and assist LDC institutions with appropriate training, education, and extension services. The DWRC will also develop model syllabi and sample training aids; from these, specific syllabi and training aids will be developed in English and other languages. Extension aids will also be developed. The DWRC will also help national, regional, and international organizations develop long-term institutional support for VPM programs. Finally, the DWRC will produce and disseminate at least two research reports annually and will collect, abstract, and disseminate technical and nontechnical VPM information from around the world, responding to several thousand requests annually.