Australia overhauls fox control strategy over bird flu spread

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 9 Oct, 06:24 · Archive

Australia is updating its national fox control strategy for the first time in nearly 20 years, prompted by concerns that feral foxes could spread bird flu across the country. The draft Threat Abatement Plan will replace the 2008 strategy that coordinated Australia's response to threats posed by red foxes to native fauna.

The timing follows detection of bird flu in a red fox in Adelaide's north last month. Wildlife management consultant David Farlam said foxes now spread through central Australia could become vectors for the deadly virus, threatening native species including bilbies, rock-wallabies and bandicoots. 'If that gets into animals like foxes, then that may be a good thing to reduce fox numbers. But it also could spread the virus to other species,' he said.

Rob Brewster, Rewilding Manager at Invasive Species Council, said the new strategy arrives at a critical time. However, he warned that funding shortfalls over the past 18 years have compromised control efforts. 'There's funding cliffs where you've got to shovel that money out the door by the end of the financial year. Then there's no funds left to monitor outcomes,' he said. The draft plan is being put forward for public consultation.

How it is being reported

• Fox control strategy overhaul amid bird flu fearsA national strategy to control feral foxes is being overhauled for the first time in almost 20 years amid concerns the pest could further spread bird flu.The West Australian · 9 Oct, 05:50
• Fox control strategy overhaul amid bird flu fearsA national strategy to control feral foxes is being overhauled for the first time in almost 20 years amid concerns the pest could further spread bird flu.Perth Now · 9 Oct, 05:50

In this story: Australia · Adelaide · David Farlam · Rob Brewster · Invasive Species Council

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