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Fox
- Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
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- Foxes can be a significant problem for poultry hobbyists
General information
The European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is native to the northern hemisphere, and is one of 11 canid species worldwide. It was introduced into Australia from England as a sport animal during the 1860s and became classed as a pest species within 30 years. Foxes threaten agricultural and native species in Australia.
The fox is a Class 2 declared pest animal under Queensland legislation. It is the responsibility of landholders to control foxes on their land.
| Scientific name |
Vulpes vulpes |
| Impacts |
- considered the greatest threat to the long-term survival of many small marsupial species in Australia
- preys on small or young animals, lambs, poultry and livestock despite an abundance of food
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| Description |
- muzzle is pointed
- flattened and slender skull
- has large ears and long bushy tail
- adult male foxes weigh around 6 kg, with females closer to 5 kg
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| Habitat and life cycle |
- adaptable to a variety of habitats including deserts and urban environments including inner-city areas, shipping yards and airports
- less likely to be found in tropical areas
- usually active at night and rests during the day
- breed annually over a period of 2-3 weeks in early winter with a gestation period of 51-53 days
- average litter size ranges from 4-10 pups
- high mortality rate for young foxes with up to 80 % dying in first year
- most foxes live less than four years
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| Control |
- different control methods including shooting, poisoning, trapping, guard animals and fencing with land management practices is most effective
- toxin ejectors and fertility control such as immunocontraception is also being researched
- see the fox fact sheet below for further information
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| Declaration details |
- a declared Class 2 species under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002
- landholders are required to control declared pests on their land
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| Further information |
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Page maintained by Sonia Jordan
Last updated 16 December 2011
