Fox hunt gets results
Country News insert, Page: 7. Monday, 4 May, 2009
In a bid to eradicate foxes at Lake Rowan and Moodies Swamp wildlife reserves, 50 hunters and landowners took part in a large-scale fox drive which resulted in 20 animals being destroyed.
Parks Victoria’s acting ranger in charge of Yarrawonga, Andrew McDougall, said results were much better when baiting and hunting was combined with other control methods.
“Dogs, walkers and riders on horses drove the swamps for the foxes,” Mr McDougall said.
“Hunters and their dogs are very cautious not to disturb or destroy native species such as wallabies and kangaroos.” Mr McDougall said the hunters involved in these activities were all trained in humane destruction of pests, with many of those involved having completed the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia Certificate in Pest Management.
“Moodies Swamp Wildlife Reserve has been home to brolgas in the past, and bush curlews have been known to inhabit Lake Rowan Wildlife Reserve,” Mr McDougall said.
“Both species are threatened by foxes.
Land adjoining these reserves is also home to sheep farming, and controlling foxes in these and other reserves helps adjoining landholders improve lamb numbers,” he C2 1(3 The shoot was organised by Parks Victoria, Shepparton SSAA, and Field and Game Benalla members.
The Rushworth branch of Field and Game and Parks Victoria are planning future fox drives in Wallenjoe Wildlife Reserve near Stanhope and adjoining wildlife reserves.
Landholders or public land managers who have a pest control problem should phone Andrew McCormack on 0418 342 480.
For more information, phone Parks Victoria on 131 963 or go to www.park web.vic.gov.au
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