LANDHOLDERS are being urged to join forces with their neighbours and work together on a coordinated fox control program this season.
Teaming up with neighbours on a coordinated fox control program is proving an effective way to control pest fox numbers, for the benefit of the landscape, and producers' bottom line, the Limestone Coast Landscape Board says.
LCLB landscape officer Saxon Ellis says baiting twice a year is key. Optimal timing is during early spring when vixens require more food and early autumn, as young foxes are starting to spread from the den, looking for new territory and food, and are easily attracted to baits.
"There are a range of fox control methods that can be used such as ground shooting, baiting and fumigation of dens." Mr Ellis said. "Other options may include using guard animals, trapping, exclusion fencing and fox deterrent lights.
"Most effective control occurs if multiple methods are used and by teaming up with your neighbours in a coordinated approach."
While any effort to reduce feral fox numbers is worthwhile, "a concentrated neighbourhood baiting program in a condensed period can reduce the fox population significantly whilst limiting the social impact of the baiting", he said.
Related reading: Fox fumigation gets a hold on numbers
Foxes are a declared pest animal under the Landscape South Australia Act 2019 and the Limestone Coast Landscape Board is committed to reducing the impact of foxes to native wildlife and agriculture.
Landscape officers are able to supply 1080 and PAPP fox baits, canid pest ejector capsules, and trap hire. Landholders are advised to plan early to control foxes by the baiting method as there is an approval and notification process to complete before baiting can be undertaken.
It is essential to adhere to directions for use, and this includes a mandatory requirement to notify neighbours of baiting programs and specific distance requirements to assist with safety for dogs, and in some instances wildlife.
- Details: Call the Limestone Coast Landscape Board in Mount Gambier on 08 8735 1204 or in Keith on 08 8755 1620.
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