Protect native wildlife and dob in a fox den

WITH fox breeding season under way, Parks Victoria is again calling on the local community to help protect native wildlife by reporting any sightings of potential fox dens located on public land.

Parks Victoria has partnered, for the second year, with the Surf Coast Shire, Colac Otway Shire and the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority to run the Dob in a Den campaign, which aims to crackdown on populations of European red foxes in townships along the Surf Coast.

Parks Victoria has been undertaking fox control measures across the Otway Ranges since 2017 through its Otway Ark program.

 

While effective in controlling fox populations within the National Park, the invasive species continues to seek refuge in surrounding communities, spanning from Anglesea through to Grey River.

Parks Victoria ranger Claire Miller said working together to maintain consistent fox population control efforts was a “win for everyone”.

“We need the community’s help to track down fox dens,” she said.

“If we can stop the next generation of offspring moving back into the National Park, we are lessening the predation pressure on our native species like bandicoots, potoroos and possums.

“Foxes have evolved to hunt and store away food for their snowy European winters. We don’t have these winters in Australia, and so the foxes end up killing more animals than they will ever eat.

“Our wildlife can’t keep up.”

 

Dens may also have a strong, musty smell and food scraps or bones may be visible at the dens entrance.

Reported sightings will be verified by Parks Victoria’s rangers who will then co-ordinate with the relevant land manager to close the den.

“This year, people will be able to report fox dens through the FeralScan app. Alternatively, they can send an email with a location and photo to [email protected],” Ms Miller said.

“If you can Dob in a Den, you’ll be doing your bit to protect the National Park and the many rare and threatened species that make it so special.”