The European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is one of Western Australia’s most damaging introduced predators. Foxes are cunning, adaptable, and highly mobile – and they pose serious threats to livestock, native wildlife, and biodiversity.

In WA, foxes are a declared pest under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007, and landholders are expected to take reasonable measures to manage their presence.

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🐑 The Impact of Foxes

Foxes are responsible for:

• Killing newborn lambs and small livestock
• Predating on native animals, including ground-nesting birds, reptiles, and mammals
• Spreading diseases like hydatids and sarcoptic mange
• Scavenging around sheds, bins, and infrastructure

They are particularly active around lambing season, wildlife corridors, and in peri-urban and semi-rural zones where they scavenge human waste or pet food.

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✅ Effective Fox Control Methods in WA

1. Ground Shooting

Ground shooting by licensed pest controllers is one of the most humane and effective ways to control foxes – especially when:

• They’re targeting lambs or native fauna
• They become bold around farmyards or sheds
• Baiting is restricted or unsuitable

Using thermal optics, quiet rifles, and careful placement, Resting Reds provides discreet, professional fox control across WA farms and rural properties.

2. 1080 Baiting

Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) is commonly used in regional WA where foxes are widespread. It is effective, but:

• Requires approval, signage, and training
• Must be used with care around working dogs and non-target species
• Works best when pre-feeding and baiting is coordinated over multiple properties

3. Den Monitoring & Targeting

During breeding seasons, targeting dens and using motion-activated trail cameras allows for focused, timely control of adult foxes and cubs.

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🧬 Wildlife and Biosecurity Considerations

Foxes:

• Prey on vulnerable native species (e.g. bilbies, bandicoots, turtles)
• Disrupt ecological balance
• Compete with native predators like quolls and wedge-tailed eagles

In conservation areas or bushland adjoining farmland, controlling fox numbers is essential for native species survival.

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📞 Need Help With Fox Control in WA?

At Resting Reds – Fauna Services, we provide licensed, ethical and results-focused fox control throughout Western Australia.

Whether you’re protecting lambs, native wildlife, or want to reduce night-time fox activity near sheds and paddocks, we’ll tailor a safe and effective solution for your land.

📞 Call 0450 303 434 or message us to discuss your fox control needs.