Foxes

Foxes are common in residential areas of Melbourne. They are generally nocturnal, resting during the day under houses, sheds, drain pipes, bushes, etc. They may be seen travelling through properties on route to other food sources.

Foxes prey upon native and domesticated animals including unprotected poultry, rabbits, guinea pigs and aviary birds and can spread parasites and diseases to domestic animals and pets.

Foxes on private property

Foxes are declared a pest animal under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994.  Under this Law, property owners are responsible to prevent the spread of and, as far as possible, remove foxes from the property.

Things you can do to prevent foxes coming onto private property:

• Lock up chickens, pet rabbits, guinea pigs etc in a roofed and floored enclosure overnight
• Clean up food scraps and pet food left outside
• Remove fruit from the ground which has dropped from fruit trees
• Cover your compost heap or use a compost bin
• Never make foxes pets by feeding them
• Ensure your property is maintained by ensuring grass and weeds are kept below 150mm to prevent foxes taking cover

Things you should not do:

• Do not encourage foxes by feeding them
• Do not feed wildlife
• Do not poison foxes
• Do not set any traps – these are prohibited under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986

For further information on fox control, visit the Agriculture Victoria website.

Council does not provide a service to prevent, manage or remove foxes from private properties. If you have a fox on your property, please contact a local pest control company.