Controlling fox populations

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: 

• ground baiting with 1080
• aerial baiting with 1080
• ground shooting
• fumigating dens using carbon monoxide
• trapping using padded-jaw traps
• trapping using cage traps
• baiting with PAPP. 

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.