The European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) was introduced into Australia in the 1870s for recreational hunting. Their subsequent spread was rapid and they are now responsible for environmental and agricultural impacts valued at over $200 million per annum.
In more than 140 years, fox populations exist in most of the favourable habitats suited to foxes.*
There would be over 3 million square kilometres of potential fox habitat in mainland Australia.
In the agricultural areas of Western Australia where the 2012 FOXBUSTERS research was conducted, fox population densities averaged one fox per 0.7 square kilometres (1.4 foxes/km²). We are concerned that there could be 4.2 million foxes in Australia.
Because foxes can jump, dig or burrow and climb, fox-proof fencing is extremely expensive to erect and maintain. Fencing is only an option in specific areas for high value livestock.
1250 volunteers in the 2013 community fox hunts organised by the Red Card for Rabbits and Foxes Programme, culled 4,949 foxes, 418 feral cats and 4179 rabbits in organised annual fox hunts that took place in autumn, across the South West Land Division of Western Australia. **
FOXBUSTERS members are involved in these events, but continue the culling of feral (introduced) animals throughout the year.
There are few natural predators that control fox numbers in Australia. Wedge Tailed Eagles, some snakes, large goannas, feral cats, dingos and wild dogs will sometimes prey on young foxes. Foxes were introduced for sporting purposes, but they now must be controlled.