European Red Foxes were first introduced to Australia for recreational hunting in 1855. They have now spread throughout most of Australia.
The heel pad of the front foot is separated from the toe pads by hair. This distinguishes the tracks from those of dogs.
They pose a major threat to the survival of many species of native animals. Ground-nesting birds and small to medium-sized mammals are especially at risk. Native animals under pressure from foxes include:
Foxes also:
Foxes are controlled using shooting, poisoning and fencing. Baiting with 1080 is the most effective method. Strict procedures are followed for baiting e.g baits are buried underground to minimise the risk to animals other than foxes.
Council manages regional fox baiting program to ensure the recovery and protection of native animals in the long-term by depleting fox numbers
over a wide area. Activities include coordination between councils to carry out monitoring, baiting, scientific surveys of native animals and
community notification.
Pittwater Council- Resident Notification Letter - Fox Baiting Aug/Sep 2012
Predation by the European red fox is listed as a key threatening process under the:
The Australian Government, in consultation with the states and territories, has developed the Threat Abatement Plan for Predation by the European Red Fox.
Source: Pittwater Council
