SPRING is in the air and that means it is breeding time for the foxes running around the region.
While the small predator looks cute, foxes can cause a lot of damage to both native species and primary producers.
To try and reduce the impact foxes have in the area, the Limestone Coast Landscape Board (LCLB) is encouraging landholders to include a poison baiting program in their efforts to combat the pest.
LCLB landscape officer Josh Rosser said foxes will be looking for more food to feed their young over the spring months.
“Baiting now, during spring, then again in autumn when foxes are beginning to disperse, is best practice and can achieve a substantial reduction in the population,” Mr Rosser said.
“A successful control program is a win-win to reduce fox numbers prior to autumn lambing and protect our native wildlife.
“In the Limestone Coast, ground-dwelling birds such as the malleefowl are susceptible to fox predation.”
LCLB also advised landholders to work with their neighbours in controlling local fox populations.
“The best fox control programs are achieved through landholders coordinating their baiting efforts and utilising a variety of methods such as ground shooting, baiting and den fumigation,” Mr. Rosser said.
Landholders can contact landscape officers like Mr Rosser for fox baiting supplies including 1080 fox baits, PAPP fox baits, canid pest ejector capsules and fox traps.
The Department of Primary Industries, South Australia (PIRSA) also has a fox bounty program to support ground shooting efforts.
For more information on local fox control, contact LCLB on 08 0429 7550.
