Fox control

Option

When to use

Cost

Advantages

Disadvantages

1080 baiting

Late winter and spring when cubs are small.

When there is a problem or to pre-empt one, for example, prior to lambing.

Most cost-effective method.

Least labour-intensive.

Large areas covered quickly.

Foxes very susceptible to well-made 1080 baits.

Native animals tolerant of 1080 but may be affected if baits are misused.

Pets at risk.

Baits should be hidden or lightly covered to camouflage them with surrounding groundcover where ever non-target animals are active.

Uneaten baits should be retrieved.

Rabbit baiting with 1080

Late summer to early autumn.

Low.

Foxes killed by eating poisoned rabbits.

Pets at risk.

Husbandry methods

At all times.

Important at lambing time.

Inexpensive.

Can be integrated into routine farming practices.

Increased attention benefits stock.

No danger to pets.

Threat of predation still exists.

Foxes may move to other paddocks.

Exclusion fencing

To protect lambing areas.

To protect poultry.

Can be expensive.

No danger to pets.

Threat of predation still exists elsewhere.

Needs ongoing maintenance.

Trapping

Use sparingly for problem foxes.

Very labour- intensive.

Can be used to target specific individuals.

Correct use will safeguard pets.

Foxes can become 'trap shy' if traps are not well set. A permit from DAFWA is required for use in urban and special rural zone areas.

Shooting

As an adjunct to other methods.

For problem foxes.

Very labour- intensive.

Target-specific.

Selective for young foxes.

Not suitable in built-up areas.