Native wildlife species under threat from the fox

Sunshine Coast Council is continuing its work to control foxes and assist the survival of native species in coastal bushland areas from the Maroochy River to Coolum with the Coastal Fox Control Program now underway.

The program has been developed with significant input and support from Coolum and North Shore Coast Care and Queensland Parks and Wildlife.

Environment Portfolio Cr Jenny McKay said the program was planned to impact fox populations at a time when they are particularly active, as well as to protect native wildlife such as the endangered loggerhead turtle and green turtle during their nesting season.

“We have been running this program for four years now, with extremely positive results, and it’s imperative that we continue to monitor the fox activity,” Cr McKay said.

“So far we have removed 110 foxes and inspected more than 150 fox dens for signs of activity and control.

“Our aim is to protect our native species in these areas so it’s important that we ensure the coastal fox population doesn’t recover to pre-control levels.

“We have received great support from the community for this program in the past and we’re looking forward to continued support to ensure the longevity and security of native species in our region into the future.”

The program also assists the survival of the vulnerable populations of water mouse and the eastern ground parrot in the area.

The program will run until November 30, 2018.

Nearby residents have been notified and areas affected by the control program can be clearly identified by warning signs at all entrances to provide guidance and information for residents and visitors.

Please be mindful of signage, ensure your pets are kept on a lead and are not allowed to roam into locations where control activities are being conducted.

Council’s fox control program uses best practice control methods which have been developed and demonstrated in highly successful wildlife conservation programs including the Northern Sydney Regional fox control program and Western Australia’s black flanked wallaby recovery program.

Residents must ensure their pets are kept on a lead at all times and not allowed to roam near control areas throughout the duration of the program.