A recent fox control project has trialled new fox control methods.  The trial was designed to compare the practical 'on-ground' and economic efficiencies of currently used versus prospective fox control methods.

There were five treatments:

 1. FoxOff® (standard registered toxic bait)
 2. FoxOff® with FeralMone® (commercial attractant)
 3. M-44 ejectors (spring activated mechanical ejector)
 4. CLOD (Coyote Lure Operative Device)
 5. Control (alternate non-toxic FoxOff® and non-toxic FoxShield™)

Treatments were replicated three times; once each in the central south east in July 2006, upper south east in November 2006, and lower south east in March 2007. A total of 24 volunteer properties were involved in the trial (sheep or cattle properties, conservation parks, or forestry plantations).

Each trial consisted of:

• An initial visit to each trial site to undertake a fox spotlight survey along a 25km transect.
• Up to 50 bait stations at 500m intervals established along the 25km transect the following day.
•  Fox activity was also assessed using activity plots at bait sites and remote cameras.
• After five days, bait take was assessed and taken baits were replaced.
• After a further five days, final bait take was assessed and untaken baits removed.

A second spotlight survey was undertaken along the 25km transect to estimate a reduction in fox density over the baiting period.

It was the first CLOD trial in Australia, and the first time M44 ejectors have been trialled in South Australia.  

There will be a lunchtime results information seminar at Struan House on Friday 7th March 2008, from 12noon to 3pm with lunch provided.  

Hear about the results of the regional project

•  When is it best to control foxes?
• What is a CLOD? 
• Are M-44 ejectors a more effective baiting mechanism?
• Is the success of fox control different in different parts of the region?
• What delivers the biggest bang for my buck?

Learn about the latest in fox control techniques and what to expect in the future.

To register your attendance please call 8724 6000

AUTHOR:  Nicole McGuiness, Animal Plant Control Consultant, Rural Solutions SA
CONTACT: SENRM Board, Telephone 08 8724 6000