Foxes to be baited

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the Rural Land Protection Board (RLPB) will start baiting foxes in the Bouddi National Park next week.

Killcare and Wagstaff residents have been advised of the program which will be run between May 21 to June 4.

NPWS Central Coast and Hunter Range regional manager Mr Tom Bagnat said the program was the first of its type in the area.

"We have had numerous reports from local residents about foxes and we are pleased to be working with other agencies and our neighbours to tackle this problem," Mr Bagnat said.

"Foxes don't respect boundaries so it's important that all of us work together to outfox the fox.

"People can help reduce the fox population by not leaving pet food and food scraps unattended and by making sure their bins have lids."

The fox-baiting program in Bouddi National Park will involve a period of free feeding before poison baits are laid.

"By monitoring the animal tracks at a station we can tell exactly what species are visiting including any native animals," Mr Bagnat said.

"In the event we have native animals visiting and taking food then bait will not be laid.

"We can also very accurately tell how many baits have been taken and therefore how effective our baiting program is.

"The program will also include a before and after monitoring project which will provide information on the effect of the program on fox populations."

Due to the proximity to bait stations, Tallow Beach camping area will be closed from May 17 to June 4.

The 1080 baits used in this program can be potentially dangerous for carnivorous animals such as dogs. Warning signs will be placed advising people of the program and the area to be baited.

Park visitors and neighbours are reminded that domestic dogs are not permitted in a national park at any time.

It is important that people keep their pets under control and not allow them to stray into the park.

Mr Bagnat said foxes were introduced to Australia in the 1870s and have now become established across mainland Australia.

"Foxes carry diseases which can be spread to domestic dogs and humans.

"They also threaten native fauna and are known to be a major factor in the decline of many species of Australian wildlife including birds, small mammals and reptiles."

Press release, May 14