Foxes

FERAL ANIMAL CONTROL PROGRAM

City of Ryde will be undertaking control of foxes in a number of Council’s parks and reserves as part of an ongoing program undertaken by public authorities in public open space across northern Sydney. Feral animals have a significant impact on our wildlife and assets, and as land manager of these parks City of Ryde is responsible for the control of these species.

The program is strategic, careful and targeted. The safety of the local community, pets and native wildlife are the highest priorities. Depending on the situation techniques could include one or more of the following: trapping, culling and den fumigation. Signage will be displayed in the parks and reserves when the programs are being undertaken.

If you would like any further information on these programs, please contact City of Ryde Customer Service on 9952 8222.

To report any fox sightings please visit Fox Scan.

Why Are foxes Considered pests in Australia? 

Foxes were introduced into Australia in 1871 and cause environmental damage by preying on native animals. Foxes exist in the Sydney metropolitan area and beyond. Community members have reported fox sightings in the local area and there have been instances where backyard chickens have been taken.

Residents with poultry should ensure that their poultry house is soundly constructed and properly secured to keep out foxes. When building a poultry house keep in mind that foxes are very intelligent and are able to dig and climb. By keeping poultry in your backyard you may be unwittingly attracting foxes to your property. The control of pests such as foxes has many challenges in an area as highly urbanised as Ryde. There are many constraints involved with control of vertebrate pests in terms of legislation, regulations and animal welfare considerations.

Council is only able to undertake feral animal control on land that it owns or has care, control and management of. Council’s parks and reserves are well used by the community and this creates further challenges in dealing with foxes.  There are many things to consider including the safety of the community, their pets, native wildlife and animal welfare. Under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 all landholders have an obligation to control foxes on their land, regardless of whether on private or public land. Appropriate signage is displayed in the parks and reserves when the control program is occurring. The program is done very carefully and strategically utilising a variety of techniques depending on the particular situation.