However, I wholeheartedly agree with correspondent Michael McCormack's views on the poison 1080 ("Poison not answer", Lakes Mail, July 23).

I too do not understand why such a grossly inhumane method of control such as 1080, banned in enlightened countries, is still used.

Not only does the targeted species die a slow agonising death after convulsing and screaming in pain, sometimes for days, but the poison is indiscriminate. It spreads through the environment and secondary poisoning of native species - mammals such as quolls and antechinus, and birds who feed on the carcases of poisoned animals - can occur.

There is no antidote for 1080 yet the advice on the baiting program from Hunter LLS to the Lakes Mail neglected to include the early symptoms of poisoning.

The consideration of alerting working dog and pet owners - whose animals may fall victim to this barbaric poison to enable them to seek prompt veterinarian help - would surely have been appropriate.

- J Graham, Saratoga