Bush Crew diaries September 2023

Published on 28 August 2023

Fox standing on a log looking straight at you with grass in the background

Foxes have a devastating impact on our local fauna species and have contributed to the decline and in some cases, the extinction of a wide range of native animals.

Their numbers have increased in urban environments due to the perfect conditions we are creating for them. Including discarded pet food scraps, uncovered compost and an increase in backyard aviaries and chicken coops. It is estimated that fox numbers have reached about 16 per square kilometre in Melbourne.

We have created an environment that is perfectly suited to their needs. Readily available food sources being the ultimate driver of the increased numbers. Fox breeding season commences around June or July and cubs are born between August and September. This is why foxes are quite visible at this time of year and are more regularly making noise at night.

Our pest animal control program is focused on areas and reserves that have either been deemed to have high conservation values or have been identified by staff or residents to have a high volume of pest animals.

There are a few things that residents can do to discourage foxes.

  • Cover compost or used a covered compost bin.
  • Remove all uneaten pet food and keep pet feeding areas clean.
  • Keep chickens in a secure chicken coop with fox proof fencing.
  • Contact a local pest control company if you experience frequent visits.
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