Fox numbers are increasing in Macarthur’s rural and semi rural suburbs and the most effective strategy against them is to join forces with neighbours.
That’s the key focus of the Menangle fox control spring campaign, which is about to start.
Menangle resident Andrew Cameron says he’s keen to work with his neighbours after numerous fox attacks on his backyard chickens and ducks.
“Two of our pet ducks and more than a dozen chickens have been killed by foxes; they are so bold and will come right into the yard,” he said.
“I have seen them in my neighbours’ yards as well.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“The idea that we work together makes a lot of sense because together we can make the biggest impact,” Mr Cameron said.[/social_quote]
Campaign coordinators Greater Sydney Local Land Services’ Dr Alison Towerton and Barragal Landcare’s Roger Giles said the next round of baiting, trapping and monitoring would begin on August 20.
“Foxes are very active at this time of the year as males move around looking for breeding partners and females prepare to rear their young,” Dr Towerton said.
“This year we have received more stories about foxes attacking stock and taking chickens during the day.
“If you are planning to control foxes on your property, you can increase your chances of success by taking part in our campaign which will run until September 30.”
Dr Towerton said the campaign was about taking a landscape approach to fox control with a focus on collaboration between neighbours in impacted areas.
“We are encouraging people to talk to their neighbours and form cluster groups to ensure all yards in impacted areas are covered.
“Our biosecurity experts can provide advice and assistance to people interested in starting one up.”
On top of attacking farm animals such as chickens, foxes can also carry and spread disease.
Mr Cameron said one of the foxes he had seen had severe mange.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“It concerns me that on top of the incredible damage they cause that they may also be carrying diseases,” he said.[/social_quote]
Macarthur residents interested in finding out more are invited to attend a public meeting at Cawdor Public School next Wednesday, August 23 from 7pm.
The Menangle Fox Control Campaign is coordinated by Greater Sydney Local Land Services in partnership with Barragal Landcare, NSW DPI and three local councils.
For more details call 4724 2128 or email menangle.fox@gmail.com. Register online here.
