Coordinated group ‘1080’ baiting is currently occurring across the Southern New England region to reduce fox populations.
The New England Tablelands has one of the highest fox population densities in the country, with densities ranging between 4.6 – 7.2 foxes per km2 where no control occurs.
A very good spring/summer last year has resulted in a high rate of survival in fox cubs.
These animals are now adults and are looking for potential food sources such as our livestock and native wildlife. High numbers of mice in the region have also resulted in an increased food supply for foxes.
Foxes are a problem for all enterprises. They predate lambs, spread a range of weeds, including blackberries, and they eat dung beetles. They are responsible for spreading a broad range of diseases and parasites that can infect livestock, domestic animals and humans.
Foxes are also a problem for cattle producers as they are potential carriers of the Neospora caninum parasite. This parasite causes Neosporosis in cattle and canids (foxes and dogs). Neosporosis can cause abortion storms in cattle, stillbirths, decreased milk production and decreased weight gains
Southern New England Coordinated Fox Control project officer Bec Ballard said that fox control efforts are maximised by the community working together.
“Foxes are a community issue that is best controlled through a coordinated approach that utilises multiple control methods. The combined use of a variety of control methods, such as trapping, baiting and shooting, increases your success in reducing fox numbers,” Miss Ballard said.
Local businesses are supporting the Coordinated Fox Control program and encouraging landholders to become involved through the donation of incentive prizes.
Landholders who participate in coordinated group fox baiting will enter a draw to win a half hour joy flight for two people with Fleet Helicopters.
The individual who brings the most fox feet (front right paw) into the New England Livestock Health and Pest Authority, Armidale office will win a Cass Creek Remote Fox Caller donated by Uralla Sports and Toys. Entries for the fox foot raffle close August 31, 2011.
In addition to the fox foot raffle, a fox shooting form to record details of any foxes shot over the winter period can be collected from the New England Livestock Health and Pest Authority, GrazAg Armidale or Uralla Sports and Toys.
Return this form to the New England Livestock Health and Pest Authority, Taylor Street, Armidale by August 31, 2011 for your chance to win a $150 open order from GrazAg Armidale.
For more information, please contact Bec at Southern New England Landcare on 02 6772 9123 or bec@snelcc.org.au
