COUNCIL HAS FOXES ON THE RUN

NOOSA COUNCIL HAS JOINED FORCES WITH THE STATE GOVERNMENT, OTHER COUNCILS AND ENVIRONMENT GROUPS TO STEP FOX PATROLS FROM PEREGIAN BEACH TO MAROOCHYDORE IN A BID TO REDUCE DAMAGE TO NATIVE WILDLIFE.

From March 27, Council officers and wildlife officers will be targeting known fox haunts, particularly along the coast, coinciding with one of the more active seasons for the animals.

The autumn trapping season uses softcatch foothold traps placed across selected bushland and private properties, which are checked daily, or continously by cameras.

The European red fox was deliberately introduced into Australia for recreational hunting in 1855 and has been recognised as a signficant contributor to native animal decline across the nation.

Environment

Portfolio councillor

Maria Suarez said the latest program would offer some protection for native species.

"Foxes pose a serious threat to unhatched turtle eggs and threaten species such as the endangered Mary River turtle, and green and loggerhead sea turtles," Cr Suarez said.

"They're also a threat to our livestock and domestic animals - especially chickens". The trapping program will be coordinated between Sunshine Coast Council, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Coolum and North Shore Coast Care and Noosa Council.

If you suspect a fox den, phone 5475 7272.

April 28 to 30