The push back against the scourge of foxes is gathering momentum.
Last week more than 30 landholders turned out to the first meeting of the new Wedderburn Fox Control Group (WFCG).
Greater Sydney Local Land Services officer Dr Alison Towerton said registrations were already rolling in with another public meeting to come in spring.
The campaign will tackle the increasing number of foxes across three local government areas in South West Sydney region, Campbelltown, Camden and Wollondilly.
“This campaign builds off the success of the Menangle Fox Control Group launched in 2016,” said Dr Towerton.
Coordinated by Greater Sydney Local Land Services in partnership with Campbelltown City Council, Barragal Landcare Group and local landholders, the campaign adopts a coordinated, landscaped approach to fox management targeting sites in Wedderburn, Menangle, Picton and Camden.
Wedderburn Christian Campsite’s Paul Muilwyk said they had managed to trap and remove four foxes to date from their 55 hectare property with the support of Greater Sydney Local Land Services and Council experts.
“We see them all the time,” Mr Muilwyk said of foxes.
“We are concerned about the impact they could have on the local koala population as well as other native animals and the local environment.
“They regularly harass and attack our chickens.
“Having that expert advice to call on has directly resulted in the removal of these foxes.
“We know this issue is affecting most landholders in this area and we would encourage anyone impacted to get involved in the group.”
Foxes pose a serious threat to native vegetation, domestic pets and livestock, causing more than $227 million agricultural damage a year in Australia.
Landholders joining the WFCG are able to contact Brendon Levot to undertake monitoring of foxes on their property.
Opportunities for training in the use of cage traps and other options for fox control are also available.
If you are interested in becoming involved with the WFCG you can contact them at wedderburn.fox@gmail.com.
Wedderburn residents are also invited to complete a survey to have their say on areas of fox control you would like to learn more about, visit bit.ly/GSWFG19
