Controlling fox populations

Controlling fox populations

18 January 2026
-Min Read

Since their introduction in the mid-nineteenth century, European red foxes can now be found in most parts of Australia, except the tropical north. 

Recognised as one of Australia's top predators, foxes are a widespread and destructive agricultural pest, posing the risk of environmental and financial harm to many producers. They present a considerable threat to lamb populations and, with the potential to host a variety of diseases, they also pose a significant biosecurity risk for livestock producers.  

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 also identified foxes as a threat to a large number of endangered species, including 14 species of birds, 48 mammals, 12 reptiles and two amphibians. 

Control methods 

In the past, MLA has invested in specific fox control research projects, including aerial and ground baiting rates, studies of ‘spray tunnel’ technology and a collaborative research program led through the Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) to develop and ultimately commercialise the next-generation para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) baits. 

Currently, MLA’s investment in fox control is largely via its support of the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions (CISS) which ensures a coordinated, multi-species approach to ethical pest control. 

PestSmart (powered by CISS), provides information about European foxes relating to their biology, ecology, impacts and best practice management. 

PestSmart’s Glovebox Guide for Managing Foxes recommends using integrated pest management to avoid any unintended consequences of fox control. For example, rabbits are a major food source for foxes and controlling foxes without also controlling rabbits can lead to an increase in rabbit numbers, which can then enable fox populations to rapidly recover. 

The PestSmart website also contains detailed Standard Operating Procedures for control methods, including: 

A co-ordinated response 

As foxes are highly mobile and efficient breeders, one-off or reactionary control programs are ineffective in the long term. Successful fox management relies on the coordinated delivery of a combination of strategies, such as baiting, shooting and trapping. 

Record and map any fox sightings, damage and control activities in your local area using the FoxScan website or app. This local data can help you decide where to undertake control and how to best coordinate with your neighbours.  

Ask your local agriculture or land services department for information about group control programs in your area. 

More information  

Learn more about completing your LPA Biosecurity Plan or download the Biosecurity Plan template.  

Read PestSmart’s Glovebox Guide for Managing Foxes to help plan your rabbit control strategy.  

Download FoxScan from the AppStore or GooglePlay Store.  

Use PestSmart’s European fox control toolkit

Access further pest control resources on the PestSmart website.  

Further assistance   

If you have any questions or require more information about completing your LPA Biosecurity Plan, please email info@integritysystems.com.au.    

Alternatively, you can speak with the ISC Customer Service team on 1800 683 111, Monday to Friday between 8am and 7pm (AEST) or on weekends between 9am and 5pm (AEST).  You can also access the ISC Chatbot seven days a week via our website or from your myMLA and LPA account pages.

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