Council abandons attempts to trap foxes

Central Coast Council has abandoned attempts to trap foxes at Blackwall Mountain Reserve and Castle Circuit/Homan Close Bush Reserve, Umina, after failing to catch any foxes in 2018.

The trapping component of the council's fox control program was suspended at all sites in December, with the exception of the habitat of the bush stone-curlew at Davistown and Saratoga.

The Council is reviewing its fox control program.

The program is focused on a 1080 baiting program but is supported by a trapping program.

A report to council says trapping is only conducted when foxes have been sighted in environmentally significant locations and where restrictions to baiting apply.

The review will consider all aspects of the program, including the existing procedures to ensure the humane treatment of both foxes and non-target species (including domestic pets) which may be inadvertently trapped.

Baiting of foxes is undertaken where the required distances from residences can be achieved. Fox baiting occurs in 19 Natural and Environmental Asset reserves across the Central Coast local government area but no peninsula sites are listed as current baiting sites.

Meanwhile, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will continue wild dog and fox baiting in Bouddi National Park which commenced on April 30 and is expected to continue until June 25.

The Service is undertaking 1080 ground baiting for fox control in the park.

This baiting program is being carried out as part of a broader coordinated control program to mitigate the impacts of foxes on stock and wildlife.

The Parks Service reminded residents that domestic pets were not permitted in national parks or reserves and neighbours and park users are reminded that 1080 baits are lethal to domestic pets.

All areas will have 1080 baiting signs erected at access points to where baiting is being undertaken.

In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

SOURCES:

Newsletter, 3 May 2019

Peta Colebatch, WTKCA

Central Coast Council agenda 4.2, 13 May 2019