Despite Government documents admitting that native animals are “not immune” to 1080, the supposed resistance some species exhibit is one of the most persistently promoted myths about 1080 poison. It is misleading and serves to provide the practice with a social licence to continue.
This myth is based upon evolutionary defence mechanisms some native legume-producing plant species have developed against herbivory (e.g., the consumption of their leaves or peas by herbivores). In reality, animals in Australia vary significantly in their sensitivity to 1080; none have developed a true or innate “immunity” or resistance to it.
Studies have consistently shown that native mammals, including the vulnerable tuan (Phascogale tapoatafa), the yellow-footed antechinus (Antechinus flavipes), and the common brush tail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), are capable of accessing 1080 baits buried under up to 15cm of sand. Other studies have shown that quoll populations dramatically decline to the point of local extinction (>100%) in the aftermath of 1080 baiting operations.